How to Write a Strong First Chapter

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[@VivienReis]

Have a suggestion for a new video? Add it here and vote for your favorites: bit.ly/VivienVote

[@polljones8921]

I would love to have watched this video because you seem to be well informed but, oh lawdy lawdy, that cheap background music made me run after just 90 seconds in. Please listen to feedback - do yourself a favour and just speak on your own next time. No muzak schlock, no annoying jingles - just you.

[@VivienReis]

This is an old video 😊

[@LoveBugDavis9263]

Vivien Reis what bout horror? I use to write horror and scare people and would like to know how to start the chapter with a good note :D

[@vjayproductions3710]

Hey Vivien, I find your videos very helpful and inspiring. I would like a video where you tell us about your journey from where you started to like writing to getting your book released. A video where we get to know you a bit more. Who is Vivien, why does she like writing and what is her goal? :)

[@tiffanynield6914]

@@VivienReis mabey so but keep cheking the coments!!!

[@wesleypatterson3286]

"So take a page from J.K Rowling..." *tears out first page of Sorcerer's Stone* "Not really, that's illegal" "now she tells me......"

[@glassofmilk7141]

😂😂😂

[@Zivlix]

69 likes

[@aliciarichardson7342]

Well....xD

[@disenchanter]

Rowling is overrated. Colfer. Pullman. Lewis. Funke. There are so many better authors out there to be inspired by ☺️

[@KrishaUdeshi]

@@disenchanter do you think you can dream up a whole world with elements that no one else has ever seen except for her? Do you think you can make up characters, settings, times, sounds, places that are so gripping that they feel real, like you're in the world? Do you think you can make thousands of readers stay up unknowingly till three AM because they can't stop reading your book? If you can, then I applaud you, because you are a miniature J.K. Rowling

[@nannanuggetzzz5829]

If you are scared to write, just remember; Rose are red Violets are blue Your writing is unique and beautiful And so are you

[@totallyrealcia]

KillMeNowPlease Thank you, almighty loaf.

[@Jack-Oates]

Also Roses are red Violets are blue Your love story Is better to twilight.

[@yas8372]

xD

[@zanetheman3829]

Your username is me

[@TheMadGod]

And that’s not true

[@frodobaggins4794]

Actually, it's "curiosity killed the cat, but satisfaction brought it back." So many people seem to forget that it's not meant to be a negative saying, but encouraging!

[@hopieworldy7767]

I guess it could go both ways :)

[@tristanneal9552]

I always thought the second part was added later

[@VivienReis]

It was! :)

[@SoniCido]

The world is in a negative slump... time to bring them out of it so they can see what you mean :)

[@jonellwanger7258]

Soni Cido i REALLY HAVE NO IDEA, what I am doing here. But your statement, could not be any more true!! Its so aggravating to have avoid it.

[@deffdefying4803]

“Even though curiosity killed the cat...” The whole quip is “Curiosity killed the cat, *_but satisfaction brought it back_* “ So go kill that cat. Not literally, that’s illegal.

[@Theproclaimed]

deffdefying trust me..... it’s not

[@testedalexthegreat1759]

@@Theproclaimed L

[@testedalexthegreat1759]

@@Theproclaimed M

[@testedalexthegreat1759]

@@Theproclaimed F

[@testedalexthegreat1759]

@@Theproclaimed A

[@segoleneroseline9225]

when your thirteen and trying to write a book your a holy angel sent from heaven vivien

[@doubleblack8498]

lol I'm thirteen XD

[@dz.m2852]

Im 12 almost 13 😂

[@goldenbunnies4143]

I’m ten..........oop-

[@winterspectre]

@@goldenbunnies4143 if you're ten that's bad, coppa is punishing us

[@bic.550]

I'm 12, and 1 month, and 2 days. Our generation is going to change the world, and we are YOUNG! #genzrocks!

[@devilishmorgue6969]

*when your just writing a fan fiction* IM A REAL WRITER I SWEAR

[@iamloslucha]

I hate fan fiction

[@WrenchMonkey91]

you're*

[@thegalaxyfox8148]

I'm writing a fan fiction piece right now, and I'm going seriously with it, like, IN DEPTH, WITH BACKSTORY AND FAMILY HISTORY AND PLOT POINTS AND EVERYTHING

[@rosesmith2341]

@@thegalaxyfox8148 yeah fanfic gets a lot of hate but it can really good

[@thegalaxyfox8148]

@@rosesmith2341 exactly. fan fictions have really bad reputations because people always think they're just cringey stories written by 10 year olds who don't know anything about plot and whatnot. which, yeah, it can be like that, but those aren't the entirety of the community. It annoys me when people automatically think your writing isn't serious because you're making a fan fiction

[@IceRiver1020]

I hate writing first chapters, so helpful!

[@VivienReis]

I'm so glad! Happy writing :)

[@ElaysiaAriel]

IceRiver1020 I love writing first chapters, but hate writing the plot

[@lyndonlucier791]

think opening to an 80s movie ! thats what i do ! the begining of a book cant go wrong with the 80s movie opening vibe

[@lyndonlucier791]

i also find making the prologue the ending of the book helps hook the reader ! and its also a big F you to the readers that dont read the prologue lol

[@AtOutoftheBlue]

Lyndon Lucier You mean "in medias res"? That's right, I read TvTropes

[@1951jmds]

Great video. My only disagreement stems from a warning from one of my writing instructors. "Never let anyone review your book that knows less about writing than you do, especially your mom unless your mom is Editor in Chief at Harper Collins."

[@maywenearedhel]

Michael Swedenberg I agree, but ultimately, who is going to be buying it and telling their friends? Harper Collins or Mrs. Jones from three houses down? If Mrs. Jones hates it, you aren't going to get far.

[@lordoftheducks332]

I feel like the target audience should critique the book, mainly because they are the one most likely to buy it

[@theredadmiral1043]

Even the first line in 1984 is just so intriguing to the point where it's become iconic, "It was a bright, cold day in April and the clocks were striking 13".

[@psychwolf7590]

There is no 13 on the clock 👀😱

[@goodshepherd3508]

I wrote my first book it is about 23 pages and never worried about the grammar and style. Title is " Financial discipline versus constant cycle of bills and payments". But I just wrote it because I wanted share very important message with the people who have just finished college and started a job and who lack financial knowledge. It is about two main characters John and James how both lose their jobs during covid19 pandemic and one is in financial disaster and other had got financial freedom.

[@candylover1232]

Could you do a video on how to END a novel.

[@arnavibaidya5650]

These are the questions that need to be answered

[@sorofeo629]

Kill the main protagonist.

[@von3689]

Give the protagonist trauma or kill them off or maybe the love interest :) But that's illegal

[@yashasgangadhar2109]

'......and I woke up from my dream'

[@citruscomb]

If you're still struggling with this, think of it as the tying of the knot. It's the part where the themes have been clearly expressed, and the the final nail has gone into hammering the themes in. When you wrap up the themes then hopefully the plot and character development will follow in suit, since they should all be interlinked. So, the ending is whatever you need to do to wrap up the themes, and by extention the plot and character development, in a little bow. That's basically what my two cents is on it though, don't take my every word and do what you feel is right.

[@NAUDIYA_NICOLE]

TYSM I’m 11 years old and writing a story about a girl who was kidnapped by a cult and this helped me start off 🥰

[@mizzlemay8388]

Your eyes are gorgeous

[@mrsrana79]

Omgoshhh ikrrr

[@ryujin422]

It looks so good I'm honestly wondering if they're actually contacts.

[@rbsnap7684]

Then you just se my common ugly Brown shet eyes

[@nathplayz3237]

Um 😐 Ok mr MizzleMay

[@prachi5616]

true!!!!

[@timothypage252]

The beauty of the Prologue...

[@cat5220]

The one thing I absolutely dread writing is the first chapter. So many expectations! So much worry! :o my mother always tells me "the first line has to be amazing, otherwise readers will assume that the book will be terrible"

[@Dani_1012]

90009kitkat I'm pretty sure those would be words my mother would say XD

[@knighthawkprime6534]

Totally agree, at the very least the first line has to be memorable; how many people have forgotten the first line of Philosophers Stone? ( hint: not many).

[@cadethumann8605]

Katia Lei You write what you want and/or think it may be appropriate. For instance, many stories start off describing the setting to give an idea of how the scene looks. There's still a good chance that many readers would like your style. In fact, no style is for everyone. Just write what you want and have fun with it. You can always go back and reedit your story.

[@kur0m125]

Katia Lei, I'm 10 but REALLY want to be an Author when Im older. I knew I wasn't the only one but after writing like, quite a few books (none of them are complete ) Ive not forgotten any of the first sentences. I try to first describe either a setting, emotion or sound. In my opinion these are the best to begin with! hope you found the tips useful * wink wink * bye

[@multitasked9512]

@@Dani_1012 armyyy

[@theversatilegeek7244]

One of my favorite authors always has amazing first chapters. I've grown to expect this from him, so a week ago when I started reading a book he wrote 25 years ago, I nearly had to check that I had the right author. It was an interesting setup but the style was a mess and the first sentence had nothing to draw the reader in. It's amazing how far practice and hard work can take someone. In a weird way, it inspired me to keep trying.

[@goodshepherd3508]

I wrote my first book it is about 23 pages and never worried about the grammar and style. Title is " Financial discipline versus constant cycle of bills and payments". But I just wrote it because I wanted share very important message with the people who have just finished college and started a job and who lack financial knowledge. It is about two main characters John and James how both lose their jobs during covid19 pandemic and one is in financial disaster and other had got financial freedom.

[@dangelaf.lucarelli8270]

*You've just wasted*... not a single second of my my life! Seriously. this is extremely useful. I was so motivated while watching the video that I thought : I must get writing! You just earned yourself a new sub :D

[@VivienReis]

Yaayy! Thank you for the kind words. You scared the bejesus out of me with that first line haha. Happy writing :)

[@dangelaf.lucarelli8270]

Haha sorry about that :) No problem. You deserve them :3 Keep it coming!

[@goodshepherd3508]

I wrote my first book it is about 23 pages and never worried about the grammar and style. Title is " Financial discipline versus constant cycle of bills and payments". But I just wrote it because I wanted share very important message with the people who have just finished college and started a job and who lack financial knowledge. It is about two main characters John and James how both lose their jobs during covid19 pandemic and one is in financial disaster and other had got financial freedom.

[@Artomedics]

my phone farted, i just cracked

[@VivienReis]

Lol, I think someone had texted me

[@Artomedics]

hey vivien, would you check my outline?

[@TLG-uh8we]

It honestly scared me....

[@ALynnBassett]

Lol.

[@thenichols9391]

Heidi HOW T

[@yardencalif241]

Something that always ruins a first chapter for me is when the writer spends that entire time describing the MC and dumping exposition about their life. It's dull, and I've seen it countless times before. That's why in my first chapter, I give no exposition, no description of the MC, NOTHING-- only what he's seeing as he stumbles through the woods, losing his mind and having an insomnia-fueled panic attack before coming across the catalyst of the story (the other MC). Instead of having them stand in front of a mirror and tell us about their appearance, I have them describe one another, and what we get is only what they see. Same for exposition- the only things we get are what they're willing to tell one another.

[@XtoriezNovel]

What is MC?

[@iknowfacebutidontknowname5880]

Xtoriez Novel main character :)

[@ashnikfield4224]

I don’t describe my characters main looks until about the middle of my story when he’s talking to his crush and she tells him how much he looks like his dad then describes the characteristics.

[@FairyPrincess]

AshNicFeld idk... tbh as a reader I hate when that happens because by that point I already have a mental picture of what the character looks like When the description is introduced so late, I kind of ignore it and continue with my own mental picture Don’t let this stop you! It’s just something to keep in mind when writing

[@ollysmith7404]

@@FairyPrincess It's real weird to have a mental picture of a character and then the authors like, 'by the way, they're eyes are asymmetrical and their face is hella long.' But, at least they don't shove EVERYTHING down your throat at once, oi.

[@grayblackhelm8196]

Outlines suffocate the work. Create the world. Create the characters. And set them loose.

[@juicyjuustar121]

This is my #1 new rule

[@Ananamitron]

I do a combination. I have a rough idea of the storyline. I call it the tree trunk. For example, Star Wars a new hope would be "Evil empire has planet killing space station, it will be destroyed." Is the trunk. I then create the characters and start somewhere. Around the halfway mark I take what I have written and create an outline for it.

[@jjbb84x]

That's why I do multiple drafts of the outline! First draft is the wild "let it out" draft. Go creative, just complete it. Each chapter features events, dialogue snippets, some world building notes and/or character development notes. Second draft -- the "blending" draft-- is where I smooth things out with more intentional development and foreshadowing as needed. That neat concept/idea that didn't get introduced until chapter 15 of the original draft? Go back and at least apply some lip service to the idea in chapter 3, even if it's a simple mention in passing in that conversation between two characters at that early point in things. This version is also a great place to check for any unnecessary redundancies in plot points or story beats that need to be altered or removed. Third draft is the FINAL draft. The working version of the outline. All the creative jitters and squirmies should be out by then. At this point, the outline is far from restricting your creativity, it is CEMENTING it, to the point where it is conceptually a rough draft of your novel itself. If this draft still doesn't meet your standards, refine it in as many more cycles as necessary. Just...try not to get locked in a revision loop. But even if you do, it can potentially be more productive than the equally distracting research loop!

[@r.u.s.e3586]

I think this has to do a lot with the kind of writer you are. The planning style of writer would probably find this the most helpful. But the writer who tends to write by...well not whim but come up with ideas on the spot and work from there wouldn't make so much use of an outline like this I think. Either style can work it just takes different skills to make it work.

[@kaytamurray]

It depends on the type of writer u r

[@ellanielsen7005]

0:05, did anyone else see the cute husky in the background? Like the comment or comment back if you did. And by the way, nice dog!

[@sophiandidi9065]

I had to rewind because I missed what she was saying while watching the cute little pooch

[@AmethystWoman]

Her animals were magical. Popping in and out. There was a cat on the back of the sofa for a minute. I missed some of what was said for watching the animals come and go. Funny.

[@issh1n]

Hufflepuff sucks

[@redgeoblaze3752]

My first chapter: with vague, and muffled memories, the main character wakes up in a shaking sweat. he appears to be stuck in a prison cell. when a guard comes in, Dera-lynth asks the obvious questions, to not many answers. He devises a cunning escape plan, and puts it into motion, only to find that the prison has better security than he thought. (Red Herring ID numbers, an ever changing security phrase to prove you're not an escapee in disguise.) and he uses his brain and unexplained power to escape, and it ends on a cliffhanger where he passes out and falls off of a floating island.

[@glassofmilk7141]

+Sleepless G exactly

[@ComedyLoverGirl]

Sounds too confusing. Not enough cause-and-effect established.

[@linkzelda8610]

RedGeoBlaze also, its absolutely not bad, but dont you think waking up somewhere is a bit clichee and overused?

[@amxzingseries1848]

Is anyone else out there writing down some scenes of the beginning, some of the end and so on, but never writing a whole chapter?

[@JoyStar]

Found this video in my recommended videos while watching Jenna's. I do see similarities in style (in fact to be truthful I thought your video was one of hers until I clicked it and watched a bit), but I really like how you both cover different topics (and you don't swear). I'll definitely be keeping an eye out for more of your videos!

[@goodshepherd3508]

I wrote my first book it is about 23 pages and never worried about the grammar and style. Title is " Financial discipline versus constant cycle of bills and payments". But I just wrote it because I wanted share very important message with the people who have just finished college and started a job and who lack financial knowledge. It is about two main characters John and James how both lose their jobs during covid19 pandemic and one is in financial disaster and other had got financial freedom.

[@nathanielplacide4119]

What!! I feel the same way I started writing in 2015 April, as of 2017 May my writing has improved in so many ways and I'm well over 100,000 words. It's fun going back piecing it together, revising it and I now have a clearer direction for my book. I love your channel.

[@nathanielplacide4119]

@D Frazier I’ve been working a lot, so I don’t have too much time, but I’ve done soo many revisions I’ve seen my stories come to life and I love the new direction. It was really good too see where I was in 2015 2017 vs 2019-2021.

[@annarcki]

"Honestly sometimes he wondered how some people, or spirits in this matter, could be so mind numbingly, annoying." Have i got you hooked yet?

[@OverratedPerson22]

Yes. Keep going.

[@ollysmith7404]

please continue

[@drppr76]

That works

[@Lizhi荔枝]

What is this book called?

[@blohppy8706]

What is this book? It seems interesting

[@anneasteriaford]

I've been writing my first novel for a few years now and I just discovered your channel, and I think it's super interesting because you share a name with my protagonist. Same spelling and everything, and it's not a common name to come by so I'm really pleased haha

[@goodshepherd3508]

I wrote my first book it is about 23 pages and never worried about the grammar and style. Title is " Financial discipline versus constant cycle of bills and payments". But I just wrote it because I wanted share very important message with the people who have just finished college and started a job and who lack financial knowledge. It is about two main characters John and James how both lose their jobs during covid19 pandemic and one is in financial disaster and other had got financial freedom.

[@NoName-dh6zb]

I'm not that old, I'm not even a teenager so I don't think I'm super qualified to write. But I do want to write as a living someday, this is helpful 😊

[@iclynnx]

If you start practicing writing now, you'll be able to start earlier! :) Just saying in case you aren't writing just because you're young, but remember, age is just a number; it doesn't equal your skills.

[@JustAFace_InTheCrowd]

You just gave me the idea of a lifetime...... I’m writing your channel down right now so I can remember to thank you when (or if) I publish my book 😭 lmao

[@rani2562]

Boos herself. I would totally base a likable character after you!!

[@vinceford1709]

I am so glad I found you here on KZbin. You are such a joy to listen to and easy to understand. Thank you for your sharing your knowledge and keep the posts coming.

[@madelynnrichard1225]

First of all, I love how clear, concise and interesting you are in your videos. :) Your charisma really makes things amusing and actually quite hilarious. XDDD Secondly, I was wondering if you have or are thinking about making a video involving the steps into creating a well written main character, or characters in general. I noticed that you have '16 characters you should have in your novel', but I don't seem to find any videos on how to actually WRITE one, and the steps/tips in order to do so. @~@

[@492lautaro]

M

[@goodshepherd3508]

I wrote my first book it is about 23 pages and never worried about the grammar and style. Title is " Financial discipline versus constant cycle of bills and payments". But I just wrote it because I wanted share very important message with the people who have just finished college and started a job and who lack financial knowledge. It is about two main characters John and James how both lose their jobs during covid19 pandemic and one is in financial disaster and other had got financial freedom.

[@miguelsanchez496]

My story is called TIME: The Irregular Man of Enigma. The first sentence is literally "The ATOMS was speeding past Neptune."

[@davidreno6]

Mega sonic teenage-What that’s awsome

[@not_briana]

I need that book in life.

[@sebastianholcomb5129]

I loved this video. About halfway through it, I had this aha moment when I realized something that was staring me right in the face for months about my book. I started it at a really boring point. I had an idea about something mysterious happening with the MCs window being open and not remembering opening it hinting at something that was never put into the story. So then I thought why not start the chapter later on in the day when something exciting actually happens, her meeting a mysterious boy that seems to be watching her. He ends up being an important character. There was just something about how you worded this that made me realize that and I wanted to say thank you so much for saving my first chapter. I think if I leave it the way it is now, perhaps people will put it down and not get to the exciting part. Thanks once again and have an awesome day! 😁

[@goodshepherd3508]

I wrote my first book it is about 23 pages and never worried about the grammar and style. Title is " Financial discipline versus constant cycle of bills and payments". But I just wrote it because I wanted share very important message with the people who have just finished college and started a job and who lack financial knowledge. It is about two main characters John and James how both lose their jobs during covid19 pandemic and one is in financial disaster and other had got financial freedom.

[@Jebbles1]

It doesn't surprise me that anytime Im having troubles in writing, it's this channel I always end up coming back across again and again. Thank you for the great tips!!

[@Blastarr1]

I have many ideas that my brain has been working on for years I mean decades from with I was 14 to now I am 45. I want to start writing and create something I can share with the world. I start and then stop then restart. I think I have written and rewritten the first chapter for two of the stories a dozen times. And as the many years have passed and me getting older I have changed many aspects of the stories to make them seem more logical. Heck, I changed a huge amount of one story because of logic and after playing a video game on my Xbox. Many ideas have changed from watching your videos and many others.

[@dendroxden440]

I know that this comment is a year old, but you perfectly described what I'm going through as well. Hopefully we can both finally put our stories to words

[@larsjrgensen3461]

I don't really have a hard time writing the first chapter. Honestly, to me, that's always the easiest part. The first chapter is where I put all my creative ideas and it's usually the first chapter that is the best and the most exciting to write! The hardest part is to continue writing chapter 2, 3, 4 and so on... I always loose inspiration so quickly, after the first chapter.

[@goodshepherd3508]

I wrote my first book it is about 23 pages and never worried about the grammar and style. Title is " Financial discipline versus constant cycle of bills and payments". But I just wrote it because I wanted share very important message with the people who have just finished college and started a job and who lack financial knowledge. It is about two main characters John and James how both lose their jobs during covid19 pandemic and one is in financial disaster and other had got financial freedom.

[@Silver-Frost279]

wow this was really helpful most info ive ever found +1 sub :)

[@rimig3780]

Love listening to you, not only coz of the content but the way you interact with your audience makes it really fascinating.

[@patricknull8767]

You are such an inspiration, Vivien, not only for your knowledge, but for how you are so comfortable on camera. I made my second video, and it was terrible lol. Great vid!

[@VivienReis]

It takes practice! I'm trying to get into vlogging but it feels so awkward sometimes haha.

[@HoodedRiceCrispy838]

THE DOG IN THE BEGINNING

[@VivienReis]

:) :)

[@jaeyadabutterfly280]

I really needed this. I've been stuck on the first chapter for about a month or four.....

[@mari0182]

^

[@malhalewell6846]

I’m 13 and I feel like my writing career is already over. My mom says I’m “a natural talent” and I somewhat agree, but I feel like I’m never good enough. Like, even your examples in this type of video are better than I’ll ever be.

[@VivienReis]

What I was writing at 13 was atrocious 😂 Just keep learning and improving!

[@tan_the_man]

I love how your dogs just keep walking back and forth. So cute!!

[@kaff1229]

So I'm getting really invested in the video... then dogs keep appearing in the background - and my focus is gone XD Nice instructive video though, I absolutely hate writing first chapters

[@VivienReis]

Thank you! My dogs (fortunately? unfortunately?) appear less in my more recent videos because of my new house set up. You can hear their claws clicking on the tiles though, which I haven't been able to successfully edit out :/

[@laphone7]

Vivien Reis i liked your dogs ;-;

[@boogiestreet594]

i don't tweet. im great at coming up with concepts for books or short stories. but what im terrible at, is the filler. the boring court room scenes, the boring people standing in the kitchen trying to get their kids to eat their breakfast, the boring metting in the board room etc... how do you write those. (also the boring business meetins, the boring dinner dances or balls or boring candidate trail election meetings and fundraisers that everyone hates... how do you come up with what just seems random banter and whats mostly the boring parts of your books?

[@genericdude1546]

Anthony Quigley I agree. I had the same struggle. I am not trying to be a smart alek but the answer is: don't let there be any boring parts. I got this advice so maybe it will help you. In the court room scene your character notices a crazy person who keeps changing their socks "this is weird" he thinks but it makes him think of how the antagonist is changing account numbers on accounts he's embezzling from, or this simply foreshadows it. The election you mentioned has a candidate who is a complete fraud who says his voters are idiots, he's always drunk yet he always wins. Any boring thing can be made interesting when you add the nuances of the human personality and ironies of the human condition. The humdrum things contain characters That foreshadow things even if it isn't apparent to the reader it adds depth, and in so doing it invokes the complexity of the real world making your writing seem more organic and not formulaic. Also remember the most interesting thing is the human being and how he/she responds to adversity.

[@beausinclair4605]

It's not about the scene, bud, it's about the people and the air around them. Start from an idea, a sound a smell; "The table knew; it had experience. Bored executives in two-hundred dollar shirts leaning against it, feigning importance. They'd leave, others would come...(a boardroom scene). Feel the texture of a scene. Clear your mind and allow it to seep in. Be vulnerable. Find beauty in the banal. Feel the rhythm, like a song. Find your own style and trust yourself. Soar.

[@kiki-zu6zd]

Just read the first chapter of the elysian prophecy and i’m amazed at how well written it is. Can’t wait to read chapter 2. ☺️

[@goodshepherd3508]

I wrote my first book it is about 23 pages and never worried about the grammar and style. Title is " Financial discipline versus constant cycle of bills and payments". But I just wrote it because I wanted share very important message with the people who have just finished college and started a job and who lack financial knowledge. It is about two main characters John and James how both lose their jobs during covid19 pandemic and one is in financial disaster and other had got financial freedom.

[@jessicamcgrane7811]

I just subscribed! I have had a book idea with some brainstorming and world building in a pile for a about six years and haven't thought I could actually write it. Your videos have been getting me very motivated to start writing!

[@mathildehirth8408]

"Curiosity is bliss" "Ignorance killed a cat."

[@mirthfulArtist]

Literally hook your readers fingers/eyes? 😱

[@CassandraJaye]

I know this is over a year old, but just stumbling upon it now and it's super relevant. I'm working on novel revisions, including my first chapter, and these tips are helpful. thank you!

[@cassievincent1929]

Im in the midst of writing so many books right now and i need to focus on one at a time so helpful!

[@clubadv]

I see you being compared to Jenna Moreci, and don't see it. I can tell you have wisdom and tallent when that girl doesn't even follow her own advice (read her book if you can). Glad you are hear to help motivate writers like me. One small criticism...You said "literally need to hook your readers fingers". Is that a very rookie mistake to say literally when you clearly mean figuratively? OK, I won't beat you up as the connotative meaning of literal is changing based on its miss-use.

[@kayciejones5239]

I don't see it either. I like both channels, and have watched every single one of Jenna's videos. I think people say that because they both have very cleanly edited videos (music in the background, well timed cuts, well organized discussion). That's not copying. That's taking time to make your video watchable. Most vloggers do the same thing, its not like Jenna invented it.

[@absolutetrash8118]

David Geffeney I can see why they are compared, but I don't get why she's a knockoff. they are both energetic writers who have simular speech patterns. they both give different advice, and are looking from different angles.

[@christyjohnson1799]

David Geffeney I don't see a resemblance at all

[@PXLF1970]

I think is that both explain things effectively. Other than that, is anybody's guess....

[@ghostpurr9570]

I don't see the vines anymore . They come back every time I walk away from the girl with the black hair and blue eyes . The room looks brighter and cleaner but I don't want to stay here . I want to go anywhere else but she refuses to leave . Is this okay? It's the second draft If people still see this video even Though it's old and read the comments ... is it interesting ? Would you keep reading ? And is the English okay ? It's my second language

[@sarcosmic6982]

gony paz Okay, first of all, please stop putting spaces before the final punctuation of each sentence and starting each sentence on a new line, unless you're writing poetry. Other than that, your grammar and spelling seem fine, at least in the story part. Your hook leaves me wondering what the significance of anything is - the creeping vines, the girl, the mostly undescribed room that the main character wants to escape for some reason. Why do any of these matter, why does the reader care? Work on establishing those. :) A few sentences isn't enough to judge whether your story will be worth reading.

[@NoName-dh6zb]

gony paz if I'm being honest, I don't know if I would still read.

[@brynnl6101]

I’d take away the here after stay

[@beausinclair4605]

Gony Paz, good on you for having a crack. It's very difficult to understand the subtleties of another language and even more difficult to write poetically in it. You may need to have your work translated by a native speaker of English for it to make sense. You have poetry in your heart, which is a great start.

[@champ6327]

2:37 - 2:40 that evil laughter is seriously really good.

[@kayciejones5239]

Your videos have been such a huge help to me! Like you, I always thought I wasn't much of a plotter and so I ended up with a lot of unfinished works. Plotting seemed like an impossible mountain to climb, but your advice has really made a difference in the overall quality of my story. Its so much deeper and more meaningful now. Thank you! Please keep up the excellent work!

[@goodshepherd3508]

I wrote my first book it is about 23 pages and never worried about the grammar and style. Title is " Financial discipline versus constant cycle of bills and payments". But I just wrote it because I wanted share very important message with the people who have just finished college and started a job and who lack financial knowledge. It is about two main characters John and James how both lose their jobs during covid19 pandemic and one is in financial disaster and other had got financial freedom.

[@woooshifyougay5103]

Maybe it's time that instead of asking my parents or friends, I should ask you to judge this and PLEASE GIVE ME TIPS.... On my first chapter, all I could just think that someone appears and tries to kill the main character. But the main character dosen't know how to fight, and she didn't know that someone was here to kill her. She desperately tries to fight, but she can't. The killer tries to killer, but then something unexpected happens, she actually killed the killer by accident! And you know, for a normal person like her, they wouldn't want to kill anyone! Right? Now on this point I need major help, I just got the idea that a man tries to kill the main character, but the main character killed the killer by accident. And my question is: Was somebody was there anonymously during the fight and gave the main character a weapon to kill the killer? Or did the main character accidentally killed the killer all by herself? Which one do you think is the best? And another thing, surely the main character is shocked that she killed someone and she didn't mean it. WHAT HAPPENS NEXT? this is where I am so fed up. And I am not having any idea about the ADVENTURE. Can you please help me on this? Or anyone? AND DONT COPY MY FIRST CHAPTER IDEA! DON'T COPY THE IDEA, JUST DON'T. I WILL WASTE ONE YEAR OF MY LIFE IF YOU DO.

[@Kuokino23]

beatrice prior The killers must be killers daughter or son or relative or even somebody else related to it and tries to revenge on something or someone however he/she knows that the killer itself is strong and yet clever so it use the main character as bait to trap the killer for not harming the main character but use her as to kill the killer of course or the main character was guided in the beginning and then finally decided to to entrusted it by accidentelly kill the killer by either simply pulling a lever when the killer is on the platform and fall down to the pit of spikes(any trap you pefer of) or ramming the killer with a truck(any deadly vehicle you want to)and possibly crack the killers bone or died from his spiky car (meant for his victim) to protect herself than rather be dead from a stranger.Thats is all my opinion.

[@woooshifyougay5103]

Vege rush3310 hey thanks. I'll see what I can do, your opinion is great.

[@OverratedPerson22]

That's literally the end of my story...

[@ramyfili1434]

Not literally, that's iligal XD

[@ALynnBassett]

Super solid advice! Love your style and creativity.

[@allendimaano2681]

I've been stuck on the first chapter for a long loong time. Thanks.

[@kevinrubin4864]

can i start my story or novel with the climax

[@will19972]

kevin rubin Lol'd 😆😁😂

[@TheCraftmachine]

You could, and then have the character saying "how did I get in this situation? Long story." Or something like that. Checkout Middle School: Worst Years of My Life by James Patterson. It has a similar first chapter.

[@richielavey1565]

I love it when stories do stuff like this and start in a non-chronological order, watch the movie arrival, probably one of my favorites

[@benarellano2315]

Milla Jovovich.

[@stardestroya15]

I was editing my first book, first chapter and panicked because it sucked. This video calmed me down haha. Thank you for the insight!

[@joditiarsutrisno5556]

Is it only me or her mouth and my ears kinda disconnected

[@RebeccaKSampson]

Favoriting this video! OMG it has the best first chapter info I've heard

[@ZeldaWolf2000]

I really appreciate the addition of fingers at beginning of the video. Not many people think of us Braille reader, so thanks a lot. 😀

[@MonsieurBAMBl]

This is the most informative video I've ever seen!! I just started writing the first chapter of a story I'm writing, there's a part in my story where a father's death changes everyone's life, I just avoided talking about the death and skipped right into the changes. I'll make sure to binge watch every single one of your videos.

[@MonsieurBAMBl]

take note my story is not about the death itself, but about how they deal about it.

[@arrestedsolidyhe77sp]

Ok, this video has cleared SO many things to me. I'm starting to write right now and this really helped me, thanks a lot

[@kingslygalindo6973]

I need more friends like you!!!!! In the process of writing a sci fi novel and I’m definitely building momentum by your videos Thanks sooooo much

[@k0waibunni]

Just read a chapter or 2 of your book online! I just got new books yesterday so I’ll wait a few months. Really looking forward to getting your book!!

[@shaunjimbangan1166]

These are some really helpful tips, thanks for sharing your advice.

[@vhfootball9275]

Start your first chapter off with humor! My first line is: “VNRER NGOAG VEIG OYU PU!” It does draw the reader in in a funny way.

[@Sophie-mx4oe]

thank you so much! so helpful!

[@fangirl9721]

My fav youtuber...ugh the best ♥ I can watch you talking for hours without getting bored .

[@shereerabon510]

Hi! A Scrivener newbie here. Thanks for the videos! You've helped tremendously and I haven't even opened the software yet. Well, here goes. I'll be back. Great job!

[@bettyg840]

Love your dog😍.... Oh! And thank your for the inspring words. ☺

[@evanwall7887]

Thank you very much! This was a fantastic watch, very enlightening. Wish I could like it again.

[@abdulr5348]

These ideas are great, thank you!

[@chvp4605]

Super helpful,thank you!!💕🙌🏻✨

[@johnnybadmen3473]

Thanks for the tips. These are very helpful.

[@dawnrigel4255]

I didn't learn how important a first chapter is in my undergrad program until I did an independent study with a professor, who helped me draft up a first chapter for my YA-ish fantasy lol. Much of what you say lines up with what his advice. He said the first chapter is the most important chapter of your story. I love the alternatives to action you include as well!

[@goodshepherd3508]

I wrote my first book it is about 23 pages and never worried about the grammar and style. Title is " Financial discipline versus constant cycle of bills and payments". But I just wrote it because I wanted share very important message with the people who have just finished college and started a job and who lack financial knowledge. It is about two main characters John and James how both lose their jobs during covid19 pandemic and one is in financial disaster and other had got financial freedom.

[@renidere]

I've been debating on how to start my first chapter, and this helped me to abandon a few ideas that wouldn't be the best to use!

[@clairehelenswain]

Thank you for your helpful video xx 😊

[@LENAndov-yf5fl]

I appreciate your videos.I don't appreciate negative comments. They seem like underhanded tactics to bring views to other you tube posters. As a beginning writer there are times that I get stuck on how to do something. I can usually find something by Vivien Reis offering encouragement and coaching on whatever that struggle is.Thanx again. Keep up the good work. You are teaching people how to fish.-A-

[@harshupattabi1488]

love the way you speak about examples

[@potatoproductions1397]

I am writing a book about a princess who is framed for her father's murder and has to retake her kingdom from both its own government and the invaders that are actually the reason for her father's death. The prologue is the way a main character broke out of a maximum security prison using abilities granted by the magic system. It's a nice punch of action needed to hold the reader over as the world and characters are established.

[@Thebigjosh233]

You got a new subscriber, I am working on my Novel. You are definitely helping me, thank love.

[@susanragsdale6453]

You are fantastic and I will watch every video. You are adorable. I like how you edited this video so that there are no long waits. Really helpful. I'm excited to watch them all now.

[@HeatherBerglundii]

You have literally become my favorite KZbinr ❤️❤️

[@VivienReis]

:D This makes me so happy! ❤️❤️❤️

[@mainantagonist2182]

This is really good advice, I do some of ghis stuff already so it feels good to be doing something right.

[@Pineapple_Johnny2]

Hi Vivien, I am an aspiring writer and just discovered your KZbin channel! Thank you for all of the awesome content, it is really refreshing.

[@VivienReis]

Thank you so much!! I'm glad you found my channel 😄 Happy writing!

[@goodshepherd3508]

I wrote my first book it is about 23 pages and never worried about the grammar and style. Title is " Financial discipline versus constant cycle of bills and payments". But I just wrote it because I wanted share very important message with the people who have just finished college and started a job and who lack financial knowledge. It is about two main characters John and James how both lose their jobs during covid19 pandemic and one is in financial disaster and other had got financial freedom.

[@WellWisdom.]

Great advice, thanks.

[@yamiatemyugi]

I was half listening to what you were saying and half paying attention to your adorable Huskey who kept popping up throughout the video.

[@joshuaknappenberger5842]

Your videos are very helpful...and awesome too!

[@sleeplessperson5072]

Omg, you are awesome 😂 your videos are so helpful ! 💕 thank you !

[@tybrooks7474]

Thanks for these tips. I have been writing for a while now, and your tips really help.

[@VivienReis]

You're very welcome :) Happy writing!

[@mdzamirhossain65]

Thank u so much Vivien . That was a great help for me which u provided through ur videos. I had written my 1st mysterious story. I had named it ' Evil Protectors ' . Tysm once again .And I hope u will be making as more videos as u can to help the beginners.

[@JagVentures]

Excellent, thank you very much. Writing a fantasy novel myself and it's difficult but I'm extremely passionate about it.

[@wismeiry31]

The most useful advice I’ve heard for avoiding writers block is, it doesn’t matter if it makes sense or not, just write and write, even if it sounds stupid just get everything on paper. You always have more time to edit and rewrite.

[@mayang615]

Thank you ! 😀