Authors differ in many ways in how they approach the creation of a story, yet there are four stages in the process through which each author must travel:
1. Inspiration
2. Development
3. Exposition
4. Storytelling
In the Inspiration stage, you come up with your basic ideas for your Plot, Characters, Theme, and Genre.
In Development, you flesh-out these ideas, adding details and making all the bits and pieces work together in harmony.
In Exposition you determine how to reveal your narrative to your readers or audience over time, story point by story point.
In Storytelling you establish your style, pacing, and voice.
Also from Melanie Anne Phillips:
