Ass

: If you get stuck on a scene, just write a brief third-person summary of what happens next and move on to the parts that excite you.

Before you start typing, decide what kind of "ass" (donkey) your story is going to be—is it a burden-bearer or a stubborn rebel?

To keep your narrative moving, ensure these elements are present:

: Start with a single image or "what if" scenario.

: Common frameworks include Rags to Riches , The Quest , or Voyage and Return . 2. The "Rough" Draft Strategy The goal of a first draft isn't to be good; it's to exist.

: Decide whether your story is a tragedy, a comedy, or a rebirth.

The phrase "ass in chair" is a classic writer's mantra—it means the hardest part of drafting a story isn't the ideas, but simply showing up and putting words on the page.