Going from writing non-fiction to fiction?

[ElectricZombie]

I'm trying to go from writing non-fiction, to fiction. Anyone have some tips on how to make the transition? I always get stuck when I try to write a fictional piece.

[TheVeryIdea]

Originally posted by ElectricZombie
I'm trying to go from writing non-fiction, to fiction. Anyone have some tips on how to make the transition? I always get stuck when I try to write a fictional piece.

Where exactly do you get stuck?

I view both types of writing as similar forms of storytelling, but in fiction, you're creating the environment and characters, not just letting them speak for themselves, like in non-fiction. When you have a good handle on the characters, they start speaking for themselves, so to speak.

Is that where you get tripped up?

[Blitzer]

There is a couple of online writer's workshops:
An ask search revels much.

http://writesville.typepad.com/writesville/2005/10/part_3_writing_.html

http://fictionwriting.about.com/

http://pages.towson.edu/flynn/sfstory.htm

http://www.ask.com/web?q=Fiction+Writing+Tips&qsrc=6&o=0&l=dir

[wmshack]

I think dialogue can be tough unless you're a good listener and have a good memory for the way people talk. But I like a lot of dialogue to keep things interesting.

"Setting the stage" for scene changes has been a challenge for me. I like stuff to happen at restaurants; everyone knows what they generally look like; not much of a requirement to describe a McDonalds-like setting.

Don't be intimidated by not knowing where the story's going. Start the character development and storyline; it may write itself later on.