The 8 Step Comic Writing Process

How to Write Your Own Comic: A Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Idea Capture

1. Start with an image in your head that excites you and could be the central scene of your comic.
2. Think about a significant event or conflict that will grab the reader's attention.
3. For example, consider your main character having a confrontation with a t-rex to create an engaging storyline.

Step 2: Finding the Conflict

1. Determine what your main character wants and why they want it.
2. Create a conflict that will drive the story forward and keep the readers engaged.
3. Explore different scenarios and motivations for your characters, such as a bully using a t-rex to harass people, leading to a showdown with your main character.

Step 3: The First Draft

1. Write down your ideas to form the initial draft of your comic.
2. Begin to iron out any issues or plot holes in the story.
3. Focus on maintaining the moral high ground for your main character while resolving conflicts in a satisfying way.

Step 4: Work on the Rough Parts

1. Identify and refine the weaker sections of your story.
2. Consider thumbnailing the key scenes to streamline the narrative and improve the pacing.
3. Experiment with different story setups to find the most engaging and entertaining approach for your readers.

Step 5: Nail Down the Beats

1. Create a beat sheet outlining the key moments and events in your comic.
2. Ensure that the story progresses logically and keeps the readers invested from beginning to end.
3. Define the normal world, inciting incident, midpoint, climax, and resolution of your comic.

Step 6: Write the Scriptment

1. Develop a scriptment that combines the structure of a treatment with the dialogue and action of a script.
2. Ensure that the scriptment is clear and detailed enough for you to start drawing the comic or share it with collaborators.

Step 7: Review with the Story Trust

1. Share your scriptment with a group of trusted individuals who can provide valuable feedback.
2. Consider the input from your peers to refine and enhance the story before moving forward.

Step 8: Revise and Polish

1. Incorporate feedback from your Story Trust to strengthen character arcs and plot points.
2. Ensure that the ending of your comic ties back to the beginning, creating a cohesive and satisfying narrative.
3. Make necessary revisions to the story to enhance character development and deliver a compelling conclusion.

By following these eight steps, you can effectively plan, write, and refine your comic to create a captivating and meaningful story for your readers.