Developing story means taking an idea from its inception as a small kernel of thought and expanding it into a full-blown script or pitchable concept. It can be a daunting task that can take months, even years to make it from inspiration to draft. Some writers, known as plotters, plan out their stories in intricate detail before writing while others (called pansters) prefer to discover their stories by drafting as they go. Most writers fall somewhere in between these extremes.
One of the most important steps in developing a story is to determine whether it has true narrative potential. This is achieved by examining its characters, conflict, and setting. The characters must have a clear set of goals and motivations that drive their actions. This allows the conflict to naturally arise, and helps you craft a compelling plot that is easy to outline and draft.
The setting establishes the time and place in which your story will unfold. It can be as simple as a sunny park or as complex as a bustling city or medieval castle. A setting is also crucial in establishing the tone of your story, influencing how the characters behave and interact.
As you progress through development, your notes and feedback will likely clash with your original vision. Whether it’s the line producer telling you that your scene with the hero surfing needs to be cut due to insurance costs or an executive rejecting your brilliant idea, you need to be flexible and respond to all requests with aplomb. This is part of being a professional screenwriter and it will help you develop a positive reputation in the industry.