The “what if” game is a creative technique authors use to explore different possibilities and generate ideas for their characters and storylines. It involves asking hypothetical questions that challenge the status quo of a story. If you’d like a cheat sheet for the “What If” game, just DM me, and I’ll send it along (it’s too long to post here)

1. Start with a Basic Premise:

1. Begin with a basic premise or idea for your story. This could be a setting, a conflict, or a general concept.
2. Ask “What If” Questions:
   • Pose hypothetical questions that could alter the course of the story. For example:
     • What if the main character had a hidden power?
     • What if the setting was in a different time period or location?
     • What if a significant event in the character’s past had happened differently?
3. Explore Consequences:
   • Consider the consequences of each “what if” scenario. How would it impact the characters, the plot, and the overall narrative?
4. Challenge Assumptions:
   • Challenge your initial assumptions about the characters and the story. This helps to break away from clichés and develop more unique and interesting elements.
5. Build on Surprising Ideas:
   • If a particular “what if” scenario leads to an unexpected or surprising idea, explore it further. Sometimes, the most intriguing aspects of a story emerge from unexpected twists.
6. Combine “What If” Scenarios:
   • Experiment with combining different “what if” scenarios to create complex and layered characters and situations. This can add depth and richness to your story.
7. Consider External Influences:
   • Think about how external influences, such as societal changes, technological advancements, or historical events, could impact your characters and their world.
8. Use Empathy
   • Put yourself in your characters’ shoes and ask “what if” from their perspective. Consider how their backgrounds, personalities, and motivations might shape their responses to various scenarios.
9. Revisit and Revise:
   • Periodically revisit the “what if” exercise as your story progresses. As the narrative evolves, new possibilities may arise.
10. Experimentation:
    • Don’t be afraid to experiment and take risks. The “what if” game is a tool for creative exploration, and not all ideas need to make it into the final draft.

By playing the “what if” game, authors can unlock new dimensions of their characters and storylines, making the creative process more dynamic and engaging. It’s a method that encourages imagination and can lead to unexpected and compelling narrative developments.

Paula Judith Johnson, LLC©2023