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7 Tips for Writing a Great Prologue

When it comes to writing a complete book, it is important that you know how to write every part of the book as effectively as possible. One part of the book that many people often overlook is the prologue. The prologue may seem like a small part, however, it is very important in getting the story started. The prologue is the part that contains essential information on the story. The prologue is supposed to supply context and specific details about the story. If you want to write a great prologue, you should have a set plan.

Here are seven tips for writing a great prologue.

1. Share only key details

When it comes to writing a prologue for your book, you should make sure that you don’t overshare the details. Remember that the prologue is meant to create a sense of intrigue. The prologue is supposed to compel the reader to read further. If you share too much about the key aspects of your story, then there is really no reason for your readers to continue reading.

2. Use the prologue to introduce your characters

Aside from sharing only key aspects of your book, you should also use the prologue to introduce your characters to readers. This does not mean that you should divulge every aspect of your character. Instead, you should just use the prologue to show key traits of your characters, such as their personalities, and physical traits. You should not overdo the introductions though. Remember that you have the rest of your book to introduce your characters, so ease up on the details.

3. Drop a few hints

Yet another way you could make your prologue more compelling, is to drop a few hints. This does not mean that you should divulge every twist and turn of your story. Just drop enough hints to give your readers an inkling of what may come. These hints will create anticipation, and compel the reader to read on.

4. Use your prologue to foreshadow future events

Your prologue is not only meant to entice your readers to push on to the main story. A prologue may also be used to foreshadow future events in the story. The foreshadowing could come in the form of a comment from a character, or a minor detail in the background. What’s important about foreshadowing future events, is that it will make the readers wonder about these foreshadowing elements, and make them more interested in the story.

5. Don’t give your prologue a conclusion

A key mistake that some writers make when writing a prologue, is that they write in a conclusive tone. Remember that your main objective, is to make your readers intrigued enough about your book that they will continue to read it. If your prologue has a conclusive tone, it will ultimately feel like your reader has already finish your book. Write your prologue in a more open ended manner. This will leave your readers wondering what will happen next.

6. Write in the same style as the rest of your book

When it comes to writing a prologue, it is important that you write in the same style as the rest of your book. It would be strange if your writing style is different to that of the rest of your book. Your writing would sound inconsistent, and make your readers wonder if it was really you who wrote the prologue.

7. Don’t make the prologue too clear… put some mystery in there

When you write your prologue, it is always a good idea to be a bit vague with the details. If the writing is a bit too clear, your readers won’t really have to think too hard on the concepts or details that are shown on your prologue. As a rule, you should put a little bit of mystery in your writing. Write in a vague manner, and leave out key details. This will make your readers wonder about these details and push them to read even further.

Conclusion

If you want to write a complete book, you should know how to write the prologue properly. Remember that the more effectively you write your prologue, the easier it will be to get started on the rest of the book.

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