1. The Focus- As someone with at least minor experience in writing science fiction, I can safely say that it is one of the most rewarding genres to work with. This is majorly due to the fact that the volume of options and directions that an author can take in sci-fi is unprecedented. Coming up with the initial idea for your story is the first way to go. Often writers will spontaneously get an idea that they will feel inspired to write about. However, if you are having difficulty coming up with a genuine focus for a sci-fi, try brainstorming. Try to find a location and time that you consider to be your “comfort zone,” grab a notepad, and just jot down the first ideas that come to you. Use your imagination; you may be surprised with what you come up with. Finally, don’t be afraid to “think outside the box” when fishing for story ideas. All fiction stories are unique in some way, but sci-fi in particular has a way of giving new definition to unique because of the fact that they can bend the laws of physics and reality. Use this to your advantage when coming up with a story.
2. Research- This step is optional and doesn’t always apply. Because these stories are science fiction, writers have a bit more liberty to bend the rules of realism in order to make a compelling story. Having said that, one may find it prudent to do some background research on a particular subject in order to add value to the story. For example, with a sci-fi story that takes place in outer space, it may be a good idea to research some facts about basic astronomy in order to bring some realistic applications into your piece. The reader will likely be impressed by these tidbits of knowledge that you are applying to the story and may make them that much more inclined to read on.
