How to write a great first chapter
First impressions matter, especially in novels. The first chapter is your reader's introduction to the world you've created, and it needs to be a good one. You could have the most intriguing plot and fascinating characters, but if your first chapter falls flat, readers might not stick around to discover them. So, how do you ensure that your first chapter packs a punch?
The hook – reel them in
A great first chapter should start with a hook – something that grabs the reader's attention and makes them want to read on. It could be a surprising event, a mysterious situation, or an engaging character.
Introduce the main character(s) – who's driving this train?
Your readers need to know who they're going to be spending time with. Introduce your main character(s) and give a sense of what makes them tick. Are they funny? Serious? Brave? Scared?
Example: In The Catcher in the Rye, J.D. Salinger introduces us to Holden Caulfield in the first sentence, giving us a taste of his cynical and unique voice that sets the tone for the whole novel.
Set the scene – where are we?
Whether your story is set in a small town or a galaxy far, far away, you need to ground your reader in the world of your novel. You don't have to give a full-blown description – just enough to paint a picture.
Example: In To Kill a Mockingbird, Harper Lee begins by describing the sleepy town of Maycomb, which is as much a character in the novel as any of the people.
Hint at the conflict – what's the problem?
You don't need to reveal your entire plot in the first chapter, but you should hint at the conflict or problem that will drive the story.
Example: In The Hunger Games, Suzanne Collins hints at the oppressive Capitol and the brutal games, creating an underlying tension from the very beginning.
Don't overwhelm with details – less is sometimes more
The first chapter isn't the place to unload a detailed history of your world or every character's life story. Provide enough to intrigue, not to confuse.
Maintain a consistent voice and tone – be you!
Make sure the voice and tone of the first chapter match the rest of the book. If the book is dark, don't start with a chapter that's light and funny.
Nailing the first impression
Writing a great first chapter is like preparing for a first date. You want to be engaging, intriguing, clear about who you are, and a little mysterious. You want your readers to walk away thinking, "I need to know more about this!"
Don't be afraid to experiment and revise until it feels just right.
