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Writing Prompts

70 Mystery Writing Prompts That’ll Keep Your Readers Hooked

From whodunits to unsolved crimes, here are over 70 mystery writing prompts that will keep your readers hooked from beginning to end.

The mystery genre is all about gathering clues and evidence to solve a crime or mystery of some sort. Common mysteries to solve may include murder, kidnappings, theft and any other unsolved crimes. The thing that makes a mystery story so appealing is that no one knows who the true culprit is until the very end of the story. And the big reveal at the end is always shocking to the reader. The secret to a good mystery lies in the plot twist . You have to be two steps ahead of your readers – Get inside the head of your readers and think, “Who would your readers think the main culprit is?” Then switch it around, and pick someone who is highly unlikely to be the real baddie.

You can pick a random prompt from our mystery writing prompts generator below to practice your plot twist skills on:

In a mystery novel, characters are a huge part of the mystery. Common characters may include:

Street smart detective – They ask all the right questions, but are the answers to be trusted?
Bent cop – Known for planting fake evidence at crime scenes.
Mysterious guy – No one knows anything about them, and therefore they could be an easy suspect in the case.
The scapegoat – The one everyone is blaming.
The obvious suspect – All clues point to this person.
The unobvious suspect – No real evidence against this person, but somehow they link to the crime in question.

When writing your mystery story think about the characters you would include carefully before diving in. We even recommend creating character profiles for each character, and maybe even a mind map to show their connection to the crime in question.

Take a look at this collection of the best mystery books for teens for some more ideas!

70 Mystery Writing Prompts

List of over 70 mystery writing prompts, from unsolved murder cases to items that vanished into thin air:

The richest man on Earth has a hidden vault filled with millions of dollars, expensive jewellery and gems. One night he goes to add to his collection of gems and notices a sentimental piece of jewellery missing.
One-by-one random things keep on going missing in your house. First your watch, then a teapot. Who is taking them and why?
One of your classmates mysteriously stops coming to school. It’s been nearly 2 weeks since you last saw them. What could have happened to them?
A police officer finds a dead body at a barber’s shop in town. The cause of death was drowning. No one knows how the body got there and who did it.
A person takes a game of snakes and ladders too literally. In random locations around the city, snakes and ladders have been placed. Where do those ladders go? Why are snakes placed in these random places? Can you solve this strange mystery?
You wake up in a warehouse with no memory of how you got there. The warehouse office is filled with newspaper clippings of missing people from the past 20 years. Who is the kidnapper and why are you in this warehouse?
Last night a series of supermarkets and warehouses across the city were robbed. The thief or thieves only steal toilet paper. Can you solve this case?
Meet Benji, the cat detective. Benji is a feisty feline who is on a mission to capture the great tuna can thief.
At exactly 7.08 pm last night a scream was heard from 59 Pebble Lane. The neighbours knocked but no one was home. Later that night, the police arrived at approximately 2.13 am to find a cold dead body on the floor in a pool of spilt tea.
You are a reporter for the Imagine Forest Times newspaper, you are writing an article on the missing bird eggs in the local forest.
Imagine you are a security guard. It’s your first night shift at the local art Museum. The next morning a priceless painting goes missing, and you are blamed. You need to prove your innocence before you are sent to prison, but how?
Write a time travel mystery story where the main character keeps going back in time to find out who really murdered their parents.
You and your friends go to the fairground. You decide to ride the carousel. Round and round you go, and then the ride stops. When it stops you notice one of your friends is suddenly missing. Where did they go? (See our list of writing prompts about friendship for more ideas.)
The main character in your story is caught red-handed with the missing jewel in their hand. But did they really steal this jewel?
Write a diary from the perspective of a paranoid person who thinks their neighbour is stealing from them.
Write down an action scene where the main character trails the secondary character to an abandoned warehouse. What do you think will happen next?
Someone has been stealing mobile phones at your school. You think you know who it is, so you set up a try to catch the thief.
A bent police officer has been planting false evidence at crime scenes for years. Who are they protecting and why?
Write a script between two characters who are meeting in secret to discuss some new evidence in a murder trial.
Imagine you are a detective interviewing a suspect in the crime of jewellery theft. Write down some questions that you might ask the suspect. If you have time, you can also write the possible answers from the suspect’s point of view.
You discover a note in your bag. It says, “I know what YOU have done!” – Who can have left this note, and what are they talking about?
Write a story about a young police officer who is solving the murder case of his best friend from high school. The twist is that this police officer turns out to be the murderer.
For over 10 years, your twin sister was missing. But there she is – Suddenly walking in the middle of the street. Where has she been? What happened to her?
Imagine you are an investigator examining the scene of a murder crime. What types of clues would you look out for? Can you make a list of at least 10 possible clues you might find?
A police car is chasing a potential suspect in a murder trial. Halfway through the chase, the police car disappears. The suspect slows down their car, and wonders, “What happened? Why did they stop coming after me?”
You come home from school one day and notice that your mother’s things are gone. Your first thought is that she left you and your father. But the truth is that she was kidnapped by someone.
A mysterious person has stolen all your teddy bears and is holding them for ransom somewhere. Each day you get a cryptic riddle. If you can solve each riddle you will receive one teddy bear back each time.
It’s the year 3,000. Your main character is a lawyer for a robot. They must prove this robot’s innocence in a human murder trial. (See this list of sci-fi writing prompts for more inspiration.)
Someone keeps stealing textbooks from your school. One day you go to school and see a huge statement art piece outside the school made from the stolen textbooks. Can you find out who did this?
Cinderella has turned into a detective. She needs to solve the case of the stolen glass slippers. After all those glass slippers are super rare.
The main character in your story must prove their innocence in a murder trial. How would they do this? What evidence would they need?
The main character in your story discovers that their brother is the real killer. They then try to destroy all evidence linked to their brother to protect them.
“Poppy! Poppy! Where are you, buddy?” Mindy searched for her pet Labrador everywhere. But she was nowhere to be seen. It turns out all the dogs in town have been missing since last night. What could have possibly happened to them?
Someone has been leaving embarrassing photographs of various people all over town. Can you track down this person? Why are they posting these photos?
Write a mystery story titled, ‘Piece-by-Piece’ about a jigsaw puzzle thief who is stealing random puzzles pieces.
You notice some muddy footprints leading into a thick forest at your local park. You follow this trail of footprints to a secret hatch in the woods. The door of the hatch has been left open. When you go inside you discover something shocking.
Your dog digs up an old lunchbox in your backyard. Inside the lunchbox, you find a key, an address and some old newspaper clipping of missing people. You think you can solve this case of the missing people by just visiting that address. But things get a little more complicated…
This is a mystery story about a boy named Billy who’s home alone and is playing with a toy truck when he finds a strange box. His mother, a lady with a past, is suspicious of this mysterious box, so she calls the police. Billy’s mother is a detective, and they find that the box is really a trap, and Billy is kidnapped.
Write a crime mystery story about how a little girl’s dream of becoming a scientist led to her death. Why would anyone murder a young girl who wants to be a scientist? How did this happen?
A small-town sheriff gets caught up in the biggest robbery in history. When over a million dollars just vanish into thin air, people are quick to blame the shifty-eyed sheriff from out of town. But is he really the culprit in this crime?
When Sara was a young girl she was kidnapped by a strange man and woman who took care of her. But now Sara wants to know what happened to her real parents. Are they still alive? Are they still looking for her?
The clock is ticking. Somewhere in the city, a group of hostages are locked up. With every hour that goes by, one hostage will be killed. The main character, a street-smart detective must solve the clues to find the location of these hostages in time.
A police officer finds himself in a very unusual situation. It is just before 6 pm on a Friday night when police were called to a disturbance in the street. The call came from a man who was allegedly threatening a woman with a knife. The man was arrested at 6.05 pm and taken to the police station. However, it was later revealed that the woman left at home has been murdered by someone else, but who?
A murder mystery party takes a dark turn when one of the guests is murdered for real.
Write a mystery story titled, ‘Who Stole My Homework?’ The main character’s A* worthy English essay is stolen by someone, but who?
Use this sentence as inspiration: Inspector Robins pulls out his notebook and writes down two words: Green fingers.
“10 car windows broken in 10 days! What does it all mean? What does it mean?” Exclaimed Detective Riley.
During a stop and search, a police officer finds a dead body in the boot of a car. But is the car driver really to blame?
A lost bracelet ends up in your best friend’s locker at school, along with other precious items. Your best friend is wrongly accused of stealing these items.
One girl must find her stolen prom dress before the prom. In the days leading up to the prom, more and more of her accessories for prom night are being stolen. Who is this thief?
Write a mystery thriller titled, “Come and Get It”. It’s about an arrogant criminal who is stealing sentimental items from each police officer in the state, He leaves these items in random locations in the city, along with a note that says: Come and get it!
Every night the car alarms for every car on your street turn on at exactly 2.03 am. why is this happening, and who is responsible?
A mysterious hacker has hacked into the city’s power grid. They have the power to on and off electricity whenever they want. Can you catch them before they do any more damage?
A secret admirer is leaving expensive gifts for your main character. At first, these gifts seem great, but then they soon take a dark twist (see our Valentine’s Day Prompts for more inspiration).
Your main character is at their senior prom. Dancing the night away. Suddenly the lights go off. Pitch darkness for a minute. When the lights come on, your best friend is gone. And there’s a message in red paint on the wall: You’re next!
Your teacher gives back your English assignment, and you got an F! Looking closer, you realise that this is not your assignment at all! The same starts happening in your other classes. Someone has been swapping your assignments – But who?
For the past few days, you have been receiving anonymous emails from someone. The emails are telling you not to be friends with him. You don’t take any of these emails seriously until the police come knocking on your door.
A family picnic at the park becomes unbearable when you open up the basket to discover every family members untold secrets.
You are at a Chinese restaurant with your family. It’s time to open up the fortune cookies. When your mother opens up her fortune cookie, it says: “One of your children has been very naughty!”. Then your father opens his cookie up, it says: “Who’s been sneaking around behind mommy’s and daddy’s back?” All eyes at the table are on you. But what did you do?
Your main character is a bent cop. Trying to manipulate the course of justice, and helping real criminals get away with murder. One day, someone plants evidence that gets this bent cop arrested for a murder they did not commit.
Write down a scene between two characters. In this scene, the ‘real’ criminal is trying to convince a detective that someone else is guilty of the crime of stealing from a church.
There are three potential suspects in the murder case of Phillip Green. You are the lead detective on this case. What questions would you ask these suspects to find the real murderer? Make a list of at least 10 questions you may ask.
A health inspector arrives at a vegan restaurant to discover rotten vegetables, and raw, old meat. The owners know nothing about this and believe someone planted this as sabotage. Who can have sabotaged the vegan restaurant?
Write a short mystery story for kids titled, ‘Why is the sky blue?’ One child’s curiosity about the sky leads them to discover a secret playground in the park.
Your main character is a news reporter who is convinced that the killer of Rosie Moore is still out there. They know that the police have convicted the wrong person for this heinous crime. Can your main character find the real killer before the wrong person is sentenced to life in prison?
Someone has been replacing all shampoos around town with a hair removal solution. When half the town’s hair starts falling out, it is up to you, a top detective to solve this crime.
Write a mystery story set in the future where a secret cyber group called the ‘Merry Man’ are hacking the bank accounts of rich people and giving this money to the poor. Your main character is a police detective trying to hunt the members of this cyber group down.
A mysterious person is playing a nasty game of hide and seek with you. They have kidnapped your friends and family members and hid them in various locations within the city. You have exactly 1 hour to find each person before something bad happens to them.
Someone has left a note in your locker at school. The note reads: Help me, please! You ignore this note, but more notes start appearing in your notebooks, bag and even at home. Until eventually you get a package through the mail. You open this package and scream…
Write an animal mystery tale about a dog who wants to find the original owner of a doll he found in the park.
Can you solve this bonus mystery prompt: Someone has been stealing socks from the locals at night. Who could this be and why would they be doing this? (See video prompt below for more ideas.)

Did you find these mystery writing prompts useful when writing your own story? Let us know in the comments below!

Marty the wizard is the master of Imagine Forest. When he's not reading a ton of books or writing some of his own tales, he loves to be surrounded by the magical creatures that live in Imagine Forest. While living in his tree house he has devoted his time to helping children around the world with their writing skills and creativity.

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BRYN DONOVAN

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50 Intriguing Mystery Story Ideas!

Mystery story ideas often follow a similar pattern. Early on, a dead body turns up, a valuable item goes missing, or a puzzle begs to be solved. The reader knows that by the end of the book, questions will have been answered, which is a comforting element in even the most gruesome murder mysteries.

This simple structure allows for endless creative and original variations. And ten different writers could take the same writing prompt here and write ten vastly different stories! I’ve been reading a lot of mystery novels lately — mostly cozy mysteries, not gritty crime novels, although I might enjoy those, too. That inspired me to write this list of prompts for mystery story ideas.

You can also use this list as an idea generator for free-writing. Whether you stumble across a story idea you love in the process, or you just get your creative writing juices flowing again, it’s so worth it.

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Although I had mystery novels in mind, some of these could become a subplot in a different fiction genre, from fantasy and romance (especially romantic suspense), to historical fiction and thrillers. (And you might also be interested in my list of 50 thriller plot ideas !)

Be sure to save the post for future reference (or pin it on Pinterest!)

Mystery Story Ideas

1. A woman asks a writer to write the story of her life. Then she goes missing.

2. Murder victims are found buried with some of their wordly goods, Viking style.

3. Three people close to the murder victim have confessed. Each of them swears they acted alone.

4. Notes and gifts from her “Secret Santa” at work take a strange turn.

5. It’s going to be a beautiful wedding at a beautiful destination, but two people in the wedding party have been murdered.

6. The creator of a high-tech prototype that will change an industry has gone missing.

7. Her parents believe her to be their biological child, but they all learn otherwise.

8. The dead woman’s wedding ring is found in a ditch forty miles away.

9. A museum conservator is restoring an old painting, and an X-ray reveals something shocking or mysterious painted or written in the layer beneath.

10. A sorority sister who bullied prospective pledges is found dead.

11. As a man researches his genealogy, he finds that ancestors from a few different generations and a few different countries made visits to the same remote place.

12. Someone replaced the woman’s contact lens solution with a damaging liquid. (This mystery story idea brought to you courtesy of a phobia of mine!)

13. He’s always been a faithful husband, but someone has planted false evidence of his having an affair.

14. A detective is hired for a high price to find a thief who stole something that doesn’t appear to have any real value.

15. Every unmarried lady at the ball wanted to dance with the duke, so it’s too bad he was found stabbed in the garden.

16. In the middle of a wilderness, someone finds an abandoned bunker with security cameras, powered by a generator.

17. The graves of historic figures are being robbed.

18. Clues to the mystery come to him in dreams, but nobody believes him.

19. Serial murders in cities in two different countries are very similar.

20. A man she didn’t know left her a valuable and unusual item in his will.

21. A writer researching his biography of a Golden Age movie star comes across something that makes him suspect that contrary to the official story, she was a murder victim.

22. The accidental death of this investigative reporter seems a little too convenient.

23. The murders all relate to common fears, such as public speaking, flying, and heights.

24. A woman wakes up with a headache and goes into work, only to learn that she’s been missing for a month.

25. Writers are being murdered at the mystery writers’ convention.

26. The painting must have been stolen from the museum in broad daylight, but the security cameras malfunctioned and no witnesses have come forward.

27. Three different guests at the Air BnB died later under mysterious circumstances.

28. A practicing witch or voodoo priestess is accused of murder.

29. The murders are re-enactments of famous murders in novels or movies.

30. He claims to be the rich man who was lost at sea two decades ago.

31. The inspector’s friend is murdered while he is talking on the phone to the inspector.

32. A dead body is found in an unclaimed piece of luggage at the airport.

33. He was murdered on his honeymoon on a cruise ship, and his new, much-younger bride was the only one on board who even knew him.

34. A woman who didn’t know she was adopted meets her twin sister, who gives her a dire warning.

35. One of the pies submitted to the state fair contest was poisoned.

36. The report of a celebrity’s death is false, but he dies soon after.

37. The murder victims all have the same tailor.

38. Who would kill the guest of honor at their 100 th birthday party?

39. The victim was found drowned in a whiskey barrel at the distillery.

40. A wife arranges a romantic “scavenger hunt” for her husband, but someone else changes a few of the clues.

41. The thief who steals rare books always leaves a sonnet behind. (As someone who’s written a few sonnets, I’m particularly fond of this mystery story idea, but you can think of all kinds of creative “calling cards” for criminals!)

42. The wrong body is in the casket at the visitation. No one knows who it is, or where the other body is.

43. The murders were definitely committed by a human, but resemble the attacks of wild animals.

44. After the woman returned the lost wallet, someone began stalking her.

45. The book she’s reading seems to be telling the story of her own life, though she doesn’t think she’s ever met the author.

46. A man who faked his own death must be found in time.

47. Someone in a villain costume and mask attempts to kill an actor at a fan convention. The actor is saved by a fan dressed as a superhero.

48. An Egyptian mummy, or what appears to be one, is found in an unlikely place.

49. A man is found murdered following a heated argument with several people on social media.

50. A body is found in the organic vegetable garden at a hippie commune.

Do you have some thoughts on mystery story ideas?

If so, I’d love to hear from you in the comments!

And if you want more inspiration, please check out my book 5,000 Writing Prompts ! It has 100 more mystery writing prompts in addition to the ones on this list, plus hundreds of other master plots by genre, dialogue and character prompts, and much more.

Thanks so much for stopping by, and happy writing!

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67 Thrilling And Chilling Mystery Writing Prompts

You’re a huge fan of riveting mystery plots.

You’ve read some of the best mystery fiction ever written (some well-known, some not), and you just know you could create a mystery that would keep your readers enthralled to the shocking end.

Think how gratifying it’ll feel to hear readers raving that you kept them guessing until the final reveal!

All you need right now are some high-quality murder mystery ideas like the ones in this post. Read on to find the seed of your new bestseller .

May it lead to many others.

67 Mystery Writing Prompts

Look through the following mystery story ideas and make a note of those that get your mind working in strange and vaguely uncomfortable ways. You know better than anyone the prompts that speak to you louder than others.

If you get a chill as you’re developing the idea, chances are good, your reader will, too.

1. You’re a memoir writer with a complicated love life. An estranged cousin calls asking if you’ll help her write a “tell-all” memoir . Then she disappears.

2. You’re a private investigator looking into the murder of a philanthropist’s reclusive wife. Two people confess, each swearing they acted alone. You suspect another.

3. You’re the assistant to the creator of the first empathic AI, who disappears just as the first psychopath AI blows away the competition at a global tech convention.

4. Your candle shop wins a prestigious award. Last year’s winner is angry and slanders you and your products. You find their body behind your store, covered in wax.

5. You research your genealogy and find that several people from different branches all died in the same mysterious location — of unknown causes.

6. A well-known motivational speaker is about to give a TED talk when they take a drink from a fresh water bottle and collapse. Their assistant disappears.

7. She’s always been faithful to her husband. So, who’s been trying to frame her for adultery? And what does her husband’s dead lawyer have to do with it?

8. You’re lost in the woods, no thanks to a poorly-planned nature hike, when you find the hatch to an underground bunker. A picture on the wall stops you cold.

9. Someone is stealing items from the graves of historical figures buried in the New Orleans cemeteries near your home. What does your latest Etsy purchase have to do with that?

10. Every eligible woman was eager to claim his attention at the ball, but only one would add his name to her dance card — and something else to her collection.

11. A grandfather you never met has left you an unusual item in his will with a warning: “Don’t underestimate this gift. It’s always been meant for you.”

12. You’re a witness to the opening of an Egyptian sarcophagus that’s only just been discovered in a buried tomb. Resting on the mummy’s chest is an old camera.

13. A few minutes after you buy a friend’s older smartphone from them (for a bargain), you get a phone call from someone who’s tracking your every move.

mysterious man holding a sickle mystery writing prompts

14. Your business computer has just been hacked by a pro, who happens to be a resident in the local nursing home — and the father of last night’s date.

15. You’re on a solitary walk through the woods near your new home, and you find a set of fresh footprints leading deeper in, possibly toward the lake. You follow them.

16. You’re on your way home from a vacation when an airport official tells you your passport must be a fake. Your country of origin doesn’t exist.

17. You take a short walk out in the snow and come back to find a fresh, icy handprint on the glass by your door. There are no footprints leading to it.

18. You visit a tea shop, and a woman pulls you aside and convinces you to buy a special blend she’s created, warning you to only drink one cup a day — and only at night.

19. While looking for the cabin retreat you signed up for, you get lost and end up at a cabin that resembles what you expected. They welcome you.

20. Every night, a new house of worship in your town is ransacked. Each time, the thieves steal a hidden sacred object but leave more expensive things untouched.

21. A rogue doctor overseas has created a life-saving vaccine for a deadly pandemic but disappears before he can share it.

22. You’re a seasoned detective looking over a murder scene at your ex-wife’s residence. So far, her dog is the prime suspect.

23. The winner of the beauty pageant is the last person everyone expected. Then she wins the lottery jackpot and wakes up with a dead guy in her closet.

24. You’ve agreed to deliver a package to a recluse living in a neglected manor in exchange for $100,000,000. They never told you he’d want you to stay.

25. The night before you head home from college, someone calls you from the home phone and leaves a disturbing message. Now, no one’s answering the phone.

26. You think you know the identity of your “Secret Santa” until you see the most recent gift: a gem your suspect could not have afforded (and wouldn’t have given).

27. After the “prophecy,” he changed her name and never expected her to spell out the name “Petra” with her wooden blocks. The near-drowning was not an accident.

28. At night, she sleeps with a different stone beneath her pillow. This morning, she woke to feel as if she’d spent the night running. She wasn’t wrong.

29. The murder victims all had admitted to the same phobia. And all of them died just as they’d overcome it. Now, the hypnotist who’d helped them was missing.

How will you use these mystery writing prompts?

When it comes to storytelling, only a small share of the magic is in the gift of an inspiring prompt. The rest of it lies in you.

Begin by choosing one of these prompts and freewriting for a few minutes — or for as long as you like. Paint a picture for yourself, and describe everything your senses tell you.

Whether you lean toward horror or romantic suspense story ideas, you’ll find a way to make each chosen story prompt your own.

May each adventure teach you something new.

You’re a huge fan of riveting mystery plots. You’ve read some of the best mystery fiction ever written (some well-known, some not), and you just know you could create a mystery that would keep your readers enthralled to the shocking end. #writingprompts

67 Terrific Mystery Writing Prompts and Story Ideas

Writing Prompts |

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This is the third article in our 500+ free writing prompt series . In today’s article, we will focus on 67 mystery writing prompt for adults.

Check Out The Latest Mystery Best Sellers on Amazon Her e

As always, these writing prompts are meant to inspire your creativity. Please feel free to use any of these writing prompts as you wish.

Remember that writing prompts are only the seed to a potentially great story. The way you flesh out the plot and execute on character development while building suspense will ultimately decide the success of your mystery novel.

We’ve broken up these mystery-writing prompts into the following categories to make it easier for you to navigate:

Heist Writing Prompts
Bank Robbery Plots
Murder Mysteries
Kidnapping and Disappearances
Psychological Thrillers
Amateur Sleuths
Police Procedurals

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10 Heist Writing Prompts and Mystery Story Ideas

Some might consider this group of heist writing prompts very similar to bank robbery prompts and they’d be right. In fact, bank robbery plot ideas are just a specific type of heist storylines.

But in this section will focus on some heist plot ideas that go nowhere near Bank. I for one typically enjoy these types of heists a bit more fascinating.

1. A series of cathedrals are being ransacked and robbed throughout New York. What are the criminals looking for?

2. Interpol is called in to investigate a museum robbery. When they get there, they’re shocked to see every painting has been stolen. And they need to figure out who did it and how did they get out without anybody noticing.

3. The series of well-executed robberies strike across the globe within a 24-hour period. Due to the distance of each of these crimes they would otherwise be considered unrelated, if not for the fact, that each robbery the items were stolen were priceless Leonardo da Vinci artifacts.

4. A database of potential cancer eradicating research is hacked, stolen, and erased.

5. The presidential journals from every president in history are stolen from the Library of Congress vault.

6. A potentially devastating piece of secret DNA evidence is stolen from the royal archives threatening the legitimacy of the British royal family.

7. Blood banks across America are robbed simultaneously. Creating an instant shortage.

8. A decommissioned nuclear ballistic missile was stolen while in transit somewhere in the defunct Soviet Union. Now American intelligence officers must gain cooperation from the Kremlin if they are to help recover it.

9. The World Climate Change organization has its computers wiped and all data stolen from its databases.

10. Every Crypto Currency exchange is hacked and wiped clean on the same day, leaving world markets in a panic.

10 Mystery Writing Prompts With Bank Robbers Involved

No group of mystery writing prompts would be complete without the obligatory bank robber story ideas. In this section, we will take a look at a few mystery story ideas centering on just that, bank robberies.

1. A series of Middle Eastern banks are robbed however none of the cash taken. Instead, only select safe-deposit boxes are disturbed and emptied. When more enforcement looks into these boxes each was opened by a false identity.

2. When the national mint is broken into and robbed, and FBI behaviorist must recruit the nation’s most infamous bank robber to help him try and solve the robbery.

3. When an ex-CIA agents bank accounts and safe deposit boxes are emptied unexplainably, he is left with no choice but to try to track down the person responsible.

4. A series of bank vaults containing artifacts of some of the Renaissance Period greatest artists are robbed within hours of each other.

5. The Vatican City national Bank is robbed. None of the goals or cash is taken, only a series of ancient scrolls.

6. A cyber attack wipes out the World Bank. Now authorities must figure out who is behind it and how to recover the information before the world is thrown into utter chaos.

7. The largest bank in the Cayman Islands is robbed wiping out the fortunes of degenerates across the globe. Can the money be recovered before these miscreants unleash havoc trying to recover it themselves?

8. Fort Knox is thought of to be the most impenetrable gold reserve in the world. What happens when its contents inexplicably disappear overnight and all that’s left behind is a warning of more to come?

9. When the world’s biggest religious organizations side a historic treaty to acknowledge each other’s existence and store their greatest historical artifacts together in a world vault for preservation, the here heist to end all heists wipes it all away.

10. The first U.S. Bank to accept money from the newly legalized Cannabis Industry is robbed and 1% of the nation’s GDP is lost.

11 Murder-Mystery Writing Prompts and Story Ideas

Everyone loves a good murder mystery. In most mystery authors, will try to tackle a murder mystery at some point in their careers.

Now murder can be a popular topic in any mystery, but here are a few writing prompts where the primary mystery is solving the murder itself.

1. A retired New York police officer gets wrapped up in a series of murders occurring on the small Caribbean island when the first person that turns up dead as a woman he was seeing.

2. A rich aristocrat dies, when 10 family members are called in for the reading of the will their weekend in the Château turns darker still. One by one, they are being hunted and killed. Now a local detective needs to figure out what’s going on before they’re all gone.

3. A small-time private investigator that normally specializes in catching accident fidelity suddenly gets thrown into a murder case when the man he was hired to trail turns up dead and so is the wife who hired him.

4. A body washes up on the Jersey shore, upon further inspection the corner find symbols tattooed on the victim’s body. What do they mean?

5. A female forensic detective is shocked when she inspects a recent victim’s mutilated body. This is no random victim, but one of her old flames. When he becomes the first in a series of old boyfriends to be horribly murdered, she’s to find the connection and who is behind it.

6. Seven murders occur in a small town on the same night. To make things even stranger, seven children show up at the police station the following morning confessing to the crimes, but they all insist they worked alone.

7. A police detective gets the call of all calls one night. When he arrives at the murder scene he finds his ex-wife dead, with forensic evidence pointing to himself.

8. A local beauty queen wins the city pageant, when her body turns up dead it’s found within item from each of the other contestants on it.

9. Spring break travelers head to Fort Lauderdale. When they all turn up dead, local police are left trying to find the motive and suspect.

10. The world’s leading climate change authority is killed hours before he/she announces the groundbreaking discovery.

11. A foreign dignitary is killed on American Soil while visiting the White House.

14 Fiction Kidnapping Story Plots and Writing Prompts

Anyone that’s ever been wrapped up in a compelling kidnapping story knows just how engaging it can be. I would be remiss in creating any mystery writing prompts or story list without including some good old-fashioned kidnapping and disappearance ideas.

1. A European tour bus operator driving a group of tourists through France has his riders disappear one by one throughout the trip.

2. A group of teens has their parents disappear on the same night. When they get no help from the police, their only choice is to band together and find their parents.

3. An MIT engineer working on a new biological energy source disappears without a trace.

4. An orphanage with a great track record of finding children new homes gets a knock at the door when a local detective connects an otherwise unrelated series of child disappearances.

5. At a political fundraiser for an up-and-coming congressman, a jovial night turns sideways when he disappears.

6. A small town sheriff is left to clean up the pieces when a series of disappearances ravish it. What’s most odd is that the disappearances started exactly in parallel with the opening of a new government facility that was hailed as the very thing that would save it.

7. A local detective is left investigating a series of disappearances from a local psychiatric hospital. The patients in this hospital were all wards of the state with no known relatives.

8. A series of ransom notes hit Hollywood. The odd thing is in each of the kidnappings; the ransom notes came prior to the person actually disappearing.

9. The Olympic village is thrown into panic as a series of athletes disappear on the same night without warning.

10. A London campus is in frenzy as five of their top professors, along with each of their top students disappear without a trace.

11. A famous national park trail becomes the site of seven disappearances in seven days. The FBI must now figure out what’s going on.

12. A family vacation to the Grand Canyon is thrown into utter chaos when both parents disappear, leaving two team children behind.

13. The crew to a well-known ghost hunting show visits and abandoned Castle has long been rumored to be haunted. The Internet erupts during a live stream from the castle where each of the crewmembers and actors inexplicably vanished without a trace.

14. A wife and her child disappear 2 hours before their supposed to be reunited with her returning veteran husband.

Check out Latest Mystery Novels on Amazon HERE

7 Psychological Mystery Writing Prompts

Psychological mystery can be a little tricky because I think all good mysteries have a psychological component to them.

However, in these writing prompts wanted to throw some ideas out there where the unknown behind the crime it is just as unsettling as a crime itself.

1. A series of break-ins terrorize a small town, but what makes these break-ins so scary is that nothing is stolen or moved. However, the intruders go out of their way to make it clear that they were there.

2. A Woman walks into a small town police station reporting that her husband has gone missing. The odd thing is, both her and her husband were reported missing 10 years ago to the day. Stranger still, their bodies had been found three months later.

3. A mysterious box shows up on the desk of a detective in Erie Pennsylvania. When he opens it he finds evidence that will reopen the case that had been shut over a decade ago.

4. An international flight vanishes without a trace. What’s even more unsettling is every record of the passengers on board that flight disappears along with it.

5. A small town psychic comes into a police station with information home where they can find a dead body. Upon further investigation, nobody is found. One day later, a woman disappears from her home and is found dead in the very spot Law enforcement searched the day before.

6. A series of murder-suicides hit a small town hard. There is no known link except for the proximity in which they occurred.

7. An orphan of foreign dissent shows up at a local church in the middle of the country. She doesn’t speak, has no papers, and there’s no trace of her family. But upon her arrival, children her age start to disappear throughout the town.

10 Amateur Sleuth Mystery Writing Prompts and Story Ideas

The amateur sleuth is always a fascinating mystery trope. It could be because we enjoy seeing ordinary people do extraordinary things.

Check Out The Latest Amateur Sleuth Best Sellers on Amazon Here

I might be because many times these inexperienced crime fighters bring just the right amount of high jinx with their imperfect approaches. But either way, the amateur sleuth is a very entertaining and cozy mystery when done right.

1. A man that recently moved down to the Caribbean to start sea sidebar, is this tasked with helping beautiful local resort owner solve a series of mysterious happenings around her bread and breakfast.

2. A close-knit group of friends sets out on a wild adventure when one of their middle school classmates disappears on their way home despite only living one block away.

3. A woman moves to Arizona to be near her elderly mom when she notices unsettling coincidences among the deterioration of her mother and the other residents. With no proof, she’s left to investigate the matter herself.

4. A Brooklyn deli owner and neighborhood will do or is unsatisfied with the local police his answers when it comes to the disappearance of a young girl that worked in the shop. He’ll now take it upon himself, to solve this neighborhood mystery.

5. A young crime stoppers club who put on elaborate reenactments of real-life crimes the size to play out and act investigation, but when they uncover new evidence in the case they become the only people who can solve it.

6. A small-town magician gets more than he bargained for when his beautiful assistant and fiancé disappear for real in the middle of his magic act.

7. A Vegas showgirl refuses to sit by any longer as more and more of her friends turn up dead in local authorities continue to have no answers .

8. A chemistry high school teacher tries to solve a rash of student deaths when the latest victim turns out to be his niece.

9. A Parisian priest gets obsessed with a series of cult-like occurrences outside the small town of Fre’jus .

10. An amateur filmmaker’s horror thriller is unexpectedly entered into the Cannes Film Festival. When parts of his movie start happening in real life he’s compelled to figure out what’s going on.

5 Police Procedural Writing Plots and Prompts

Now it’s clear how popular police procedural fiction and TV shows have become. A good police procedural will not only take the reader on a journey to solve the mystery but will make the reader feel as if they are truly part a law enforcement.

Want Some Inspiration- Check Out The Latest Police Procedural Best Sellers on Amazon

A police procedural needs to be well executed in the details true crime-fighting techniques. They take a lot more research in specificity around the particular crime-fighting unit question, but when done right they bring a whole other level a reality to your mystery plot.

1. A member of the FBI’s behavioral unit investigates a new serial killer who uses well-known criminal profiles to throw law enforcement off their trail .

2. A homicide unit investigates a series of homeless murderers ravishing the city parks.

3. When the city counselor’s daughter turns up dead on the steps of Capitol Hill local officers race find the killer.

4. When a series of witness protection informants begin to turn up dead ahead of a high-profile case, the FBI agent who helped put the case together now help protect his final witnesses.

5. The narcotics division of the local Police Department these dealing with a new synthetic drug as they’d never seen before. Now they need to find out was bringing it into their neighborhood.

That’s the conclusion of our mystery writing prompts and story idea article. I hope you can use one of these ideas as inspiration to write your next mystery thriller.

Remember this is just one post in our series of 500+ writing posts, check out the writing prompt hub page to find free writing prompts and other genres.

As always, thanks for reading and more importantly Writing!

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Mystery Story Ideas: 25 Murder, Mystery, and Mayhem Prompts to Inspire Your Story

by Ruthanne Reid | 61 comments

What makes a mystery such a compelling type of story? Maybe it's the puzzle, the details that keep us guessing, or the quirky sleuth or investigator. If you love to read mysteries, too, why not give on of these mystery prompts a try today?

The mystery genre begins with a crime, a puzzle, or other situation that requires solving. Authors leave clues and red herrings that the sleuth (and reader!) follow to solve the case. Some of the most famous authors in this genre include Edgar Allan Poe, Agatha Christie, Sir Arthur Conan Doyle, Raymond Chandler, and Dorothy Sayers.

There are a number of sub-genres in the mystery category: cozy mysteries, police procedurals, detective, capers and heists, noir and more.

Need help with a structure to get you started? Take a look at our article on the nine types of stories here . And you might also like our full guide on How to Write Mystery Novel .

Today, let's look at some mystery writing prompts to get your creative juices flowing and your own mystery started!

Five Cozy Mystery Creative Writing Prompts

A librarian happens across a crime scene when they clean the basement archives.
A murder mystery party goes wrong and potential suspects point at each other to avoid arrest. (Especially effective if set in an enclosed location.
A secret society of mystery readers realizes that there is a real killer still on the loose and the clues are hidden in a dead author's books.
A murder scene on a movie set becomes reality when the star is found dead, and the prime suspect discovered missing.
A new restaurant owner in a small town uncovers a long-forgotten mystery from the town's past but the mysterious circumstances unearth a real killer.

Ten Crime Solving Story Ideas

6. Charles McDougall, Scotland Yard's best Inspector, is laid up in the hospital with a badly broken leg, but that doesn't mean he's off the clock! An online news headline describing a tragic gas leak/explosion catches his eye. Four people died: a housewife, a minor politician, a young chemist, and the daughter of a local mobster. Somehow, using only clues from the internet (and what he can worm out of his coworkers), he has to figure out which of those people was the actual target, and why.

7. Agatha Christoph (get it?) is a retired schoolteacher in a beautiful little town in New England. She never married and has no children, so her friends are everything to her. That's why when her best friend, Martha, is blackmailed with vague threats about some risqué photos from Martha's youth, Agatha jumps to the rescue. But Martha's youth was a LONG time ago. Who could have those photos? And what could they possibly want?

8. Mars is colonized, though there's no air outside the domes. Travel from dome to dome is by train. The Eberswalde Express is the “luxury” locomotive, filled with old-timey elegance and charm. It takes a day and a half between stops to give wealthy patrons full time to enjoy the amenities. AND WOULDN'T YOU KNOW IT…THERE'S A MURDER! Weirdly, this murder mimics the plotline of The Orient Express, and Elsa, a librarian and mystery buff, recognizes the details. With a murderer on board and nowhere to go, everyone is in danger. Can Elsa solve this murder before the killer strikes again?

9. Ever heard the phrase, “It is not who fired the shot but who paid for the bullet”? This is a philosophy Tomoe Gozen lives by. Tomoe (who, by the way, was a real female Samurai ) serves her general well, but when a fellow soldier dies mysteriously one night after a game of Chō-Han, she can't simply accept that the death had no meaning. Brave and clever, Tomoe follows clues until she learns who ordered the murder: Emperor Antoku himself. But why would the emperor of Japan want to kill a lowly soldier? And why the subterfuge?

10. Medieval France. Fourteen-year-old Amée is a servant girl with a genius IQ stuck as a scullery maid in her fief lord's castle. She leads a lonely life, with plenty of time to think and analyze, though—and this is important—she can't read. But something strange is happening here. The fief lord keeps bringing new brides home… and within two weeks, those brides disappear. A new one—nearly Amée's age—has just been brought to the castle, and Amée knows the clock for survival has already begun to tick. She has time to figure this out. Will she before it's too late?

11. Omar Yehia is a colonel in Cairo's police department. The government is unstable, and the people are unhappy; he has his hands full with violent cases all the time. Unfortunately, one day, a slain prostitute turns out to have something on her person that no one in Egypt should have at all: Queen Mary's Crown . How on earth did she get that ? More importantly, what will Omar do with the 48 hours his superiors give him to crack this case before they report this to foreign authorities?

12. Sandra is a mystery-lover. She sees mysteries and hidden conspiracies everywhere they aren't , and her sister Carrie laughs this off as a silly quirk… until Carrie is framed for the murder of the man in the next apartment. Carrie's DNA is somehow all over the place, though she swears she's never even been in that apartment before. No one thinks Carrie is innocent but Sandra… and she has a limited amount of time to prove her sister is innocent.

13. Twelve-year-old Alexandra is a leader . She runs her school's newspaper, manages three after-school clubs (the book club, the fencing club, and the junior stamp-collector club), and doesn't have time for nonsense. Which is why when she sees a man dressed all in black carrying a manilla folder as he climbs out of her principal's window, her determination to get to the bottom of it knows no bounds. Look out, data-thief. Here comes Alexandra!

14. David is a senior software engineer for a major tech company, and he spends most days knee-deep in other people's databases, trying to figure out what they did wrong. One day, he happens across a piece of malicious code designed to steal financial information. He reports it and deletes it, but he comes across that same code again—in the database of a completely different company. He finds it again; and again. And the fifth time around, his manager drops a hint that the higher-ups think he's the best person to figure out who's planting it. Undercover, they send him to each of the company's data centers: one in London, one in Boston, one in Dallas, and one in Seattle. It's going to be his job—socially anxious as he is—to interview everyone and find out who's planting that code and why.

15. General March hires Detective Thomas to try to find the person who's been blackmailing March for the past twenty years. Thomas tracks the miscreant down, but finds that the man behind the threats has been dead for the past ten years. So who's carrying on the blackmailing? And is the secret that's held March prisoner this long something that should stay a secret?

10 More Murder Mystery Story Ideas

16. Defense attorney Bob Larson enjoys his job. He likes justice; he likes being right. Usually, he thinks right and wrong are really easy to spot. Then he ends up representing a young Navy Seal who shot and killed an elderly woman—and claims it was in self-defense. Who's really the bad guy?

17. Samuel sleepwalks. He also thinks he loves another man's wife. He's more surprised than anyone when he's arrested for that man's murder. Did he do it? Or is he being set up to take the fall?

18. Mystery writer Dan Rodriguez takes the subway every day. Every day, nothing happens. He wears earbuds and a hoodie; he's ignored, and he ignores. Then one evening, on his way home from a stressful meeting with his publisher, Dan is startled out of his funk when a frantic Middle-Eastern man knocks him over at a dead run, then races up the stairs—pursued by several other mysterious looking thugs. The Middle-Eastern man is shot; and Dan discovers a small, wrapped package in the front pocket of his hoodie. What's inside, and what does he need to do to survive the answer?

19. Wealthy, unmarried Anne Lamont is murdered, and she leaves her entire fortune to a man she met two weeks before, putting suspicion squarely on him. Detective Arnold thinks the man is innocent. He has a week to make his case before this goes before a jury. But when he digs into Anne's background, he finds the sweet old matron wasn't at all what she seemed.

20. A headless corpse is found in a freshly-dug grave in Arkansas. The local police chief, Arley Socket, has never had to deal with more than missing gas cans and treed cats. His exploration of this weird murder digs up a mystery older than the 100-year-old town of Jericho that harkens all the way back to a European blood-feud.

21. Someone is murdering homeless people in Phoenix, Arizona. Detective Sally Fortnight is determined to get to the bottom of it… but what she uncovers may be more deadly than she could ever guess.

22. On the Lovely Lady riverboat in 1900's Louisiana, professional gambler Lacroix is just doing his thing when a scream startles him and the other players from the poker table. It turns out the captain of the steamboat has been murdered, and only someone on the boat could've pulled it off. Lacroix already has a record. In two days, the Lady will pull into Shreveport, where he stands a good chance of being arrested… unless he can suss out the killer first.

23. Detective Donna Madison is on a completely routine case (bootleg watches, just so you know) when she stumbles across a ring of jewel thieves. Two murders, a clever fortune-teller, and a stuffed cat filled with clues later, and Donna finds herself uncovering a far bigger mystery than where stolen watches go.

24. It is the Cold War era. Private Eye Charles Nick searches for a missing cryptanalyst, all the while dodging an obsessed FBI agent who thinks Nick is a communist spy. The cryptanalyst, by the way, went missing for a good reason: he might have cracked the latest Russian spy code, and he's running for his life.

25. 1850's England: elderly Doris and her six young wards are caught in a storm and forced to ask for shelter at an enormous manor deep in the English countryside. But all is not well in this home, and before long, Doris faces a bizarre problem: the manor's lord, Sir Geoffrey, claims his estranged wife Alice is going to murder him that evening. Alice, meanwhile, claims that Geoffrey is going to murder her. After dinner, both are found dead, in the library, seated as if having a rational discussion, but dead as mice. There is no obvious murder weapon, and quite possibly, the murderer is loose in the manor. Doris is no detective, but she might as well figure this out. Given that storm, help won't be coming until it's too late.

(This is the fourth in my series of story ideas, by the way. If you're interested in the others, check out 20 fantasy story ideas , 20 sci-fi story ideas , and 20 romance story ideas. )

Do any of these story ideas get your inner-criminal devising? Let us know in the comments .

It's time to play with story ideas! Take fifteen minutes and develop one of these story ideas into at least one scene. Don't edit yourself! Set your imagination free, then post your results in the practice box below. Don't forget to leave feedback for other writers! Share your practice in the Pro Practice Workshop , and leave feedback for a few other writers. Not a member? Join us .

Ruthanne Reid

Best-Selling author Ruthanne Reid has led a convention panel on world-building, taught courses on plot and character development, and was keynote speaker for The Write Practice 2021 Spring Retreat.

Author of two series with five books and fifty short stories, Ruthanne has lived in her head since childhood, when she wrote her first story about a pony princess and a genocidal snake-kingdom, using up her mom’s red typewriter ribbon.

When she isn’t reading, writing, or reading about writing, Ruthanne enjoys old cartoons with her husband and two cats, and dreams of living on an island beach far, far away.

P.S. Red is still her favorite color.

61 Comments

I hate giving presentations.

I am a software engineer. Or I used to be, until that fateful day my boss called me into his office to figure out who’s been trying to hack into our clients’ code. Now, I am a reluctant detective.

I got the job purely by chance. I happened to be the only guy working the evening (it was Valentine’s) that the malicious code first showed up. I deleted it and reported it to the higher-ups. I was then tasked with the incredibly boring task of searching through the millions of lines of client code that we had access to in order to ensure there had been no other security breaches. The work may have been tedious and time consuming despite the clever automation I baked in, but it was not as pointless as I’d expected: the same code was present in four other code bases.

And that is why I was standing there, sweating bullets and trying to keep my hands from visibly shaking as I presented my findings to the CEO of our company.

“All that’s great, Dave,” said the CEO, calm as ever, “but what are you going to do about it?”

“Well, we’ll have to find the parties responsible, Mr. Zheng.”

“And who do you think that could be, Dave?” He sounded mildly curious about the breach that could cost us our entire reputation and millions of dollars in lawsuits.

“The only people with access to the code bases of all these clients, and I confirmed this with them, is, well, us.” I said.

“So, what are we going to do about it?”

“Find the person and turn them in?”

“Wrong. First, we figure out a way to enhance security of our code base to prevent future attacks, even from within. Jane, put your best engineers on the job.” He said to my manager.

“And Dave, you have been relieved of all your duties so you can focus on finding me the person responsible. You have one week. You may leave now.”

I had a meeting with Jane the next day. I’d never seen her so frazzled before. But the CEO had that effect on people. It’s like he sucked the calm out of you. But he was a brilliant man. That’s why he was CEO.

“So, do you have any ideas, Dave?” she asked.

“I have one. But it’s risky and it may not work.”

“Go on…” she said, carefully.

“A coding competition open to all our employees. An amazing prize besides bragging rights that should draw any hacker in.”

“Ah, and the problem would be to hack into our system?”

“No, that would be too obvious. You see, after all these years on the job, I’ve learned that each person has a distinct coding style, a coding signature, so to speak. Code is personal. It tells you how a person thinks, how careful they are, how considerate etc. Even something as simple as formatting or variable declaration becomes ingrained in a person after years of coding. I believe I can find the hacked using this competition.”

“Well, it’s not like we have any other ideas. Whoever it was used a ghost ip so we cannot track them. This may be our only shot.”

If this were a novel-length piece, I’d go into the nuances of how I designed a problem that was original and yet challenging enough to entice a brilliant programmer working at the best tech company in the world. But suffice it to say that while solutions are difficult, they’re a piece of cake compared to designing problems.

The day of the contest came and entries flooded in. Everyone was interested in getting out of a day of work. Even Janice from accounting was there.

The contestants spent 24 hours hacking up a solution, powered by free pizza. I spent the next 24 hours scouring through thousands of lines of code to find the suspect.

Finally, I found a match. The aha moment turned into a head scratching one when I realized who had sent it in.

I couldn’t believe it. The hacker, and the person with the best solution, was Janice from accounting?!

Sana, I ABSOLUTELY LOVE what you’ve done with this! You’ve managed to make it interesting, to set up characters, and to have a complete beginning, middle, and end. Terrific practice!

I find this interesting 🙂

Some great ideas in this post Ruthanne, I might have to take some of them with me to my writer’s group tomorrow as I know one of our members loves writing mystery. Number 16 really grabbed my attention and makes for a great paranormal mystery.

That would be great, Amanda! I hope they really enjoy them! 🙂

Feel free to turn any of these paranormal. 😉 I tried to keep them largely “normal” for the sake of the audience, but I personally love a little magic in my mystery. 😉

I was woken up by a loud thunder…. I shot out of bed, just to look out my large window and find out its pouring rain!! “Ping…ping…ping..”. I tun around back to my bed to see what all that noice was. It was my phone. Probably my boyfriend texting me and seeing what im doing, but the thing is, its not that hes not a good boyfriend, its just that im in love with someone else, someone whose name is Anthony… Anthony works with me in English class, were partners. My boyfriend hates when I hang out with him.. “HAZEL! TIME TO GET UP! SCHOOL STARTS IN 1 HOUR!”. What is she talking about? Whats all the rush? I have 1 hour left. That’s plenty of time! Whatever, im just going to go get ready and not fight about it. I walk to my new grey dresser, and open the handle in which leads me to my make-up and hair stuff, I sit down and look in the mirror while putting foundation on. After doing my makeup, it was time to do my hair, what am I going to even dress my hair up today? A pony tail? A messy hair bun? What would my thick, brown, long hair even look good in? its probably best just to straighten it. In the middle of straightening my hair I burn my hand, and threw the wand. “OW! OW! OW! OW!” I Scream, “ Stupid fucking straightener!” I swear. “EXCUSE ME YOUNG LADY! WHAT DID YOU JUST SAY!” My mom yells from down stairs. “ sorry mom! I burned my self! It wont happen again!”. My mom hates when I swear. She hate when anyone swears. But what was I supposed to do if I got a 3rd degree burn on a hair straightener? which is least likely to happen. “ PINGGGG- PINNNNGGGG-…..PINGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGG…PINGGGGG….PINGGGG.PINGGG” My phone kept on going, and going. And going. “GOD DAMN IT HAZEL ROYAL! JUST PICK UP THAT DAMN PHONE!” Ughhhhh why does she always make me do stuff!!!!!. So I go and grab the stupid phone. “ What? Why do you keep calling me adan?” I said as calm as can be. “ why are you not answering the damn phone babe?” well… PROBABLY CAUSE IVE GOT A LIFE OF MY OWN. But was I going to say that? No. I wasn’t. “sorry, im just in the middle of doing my hair. Can I call you later babe? I don’t want to be late for school, theres only 20 minutes left.” I replied. “okay, but youll make sure to hang out with me instead of Anthony?” adan russed while he spoke, “ yeah, I will, bye babe!” I mimicked his tone. “ bye” adan said. Finally, why does he always have to call me when im in the middle of doing things!? (thats what ive got down so far, im still trying to finish it)

These are the best by far in your story ideas!!!! I love them SO much, especially #20, #14, and #7. I am a mystery lover (I have all of the old Nancy Drew, some of the Trixie Belden, and several of almost 100 – and over- year old Girl Scout mysteries.) and these really “tickle my storytelling bones”. ;-D

Awesome, Renee! I grew up on the old Nancy Drew, too! I hope you take these ideas and turn them into something absolutely wicked fun!

What a great list. I’ve been skipping the other lists because they aren’t in my genre, but I had to read this. And not only because I’m currently stuck on my current work in progress.

I confess that I’m especially drawn to Number 7. Can you blame me?

Thanks for the boost!

This is awesome, Carrie! I’m so, so glad to hear it! I hope you can take that idea and spin it into something fabulous. 🙂

I’ve read all of your ideas and discover that you’ve provided more than just a list of ideas. Far more.

The ways you’ve played off known people and known characters (Agatha Christie and Nick Charles of Thin Man fame) have opened up a couple of doors to me that I hadn’t previously considered. All a of sudden, every novel I love and every character I admire has the potential to influence my own fiction.

Carrie, it delights me that you caught those silly references! 🙂 I’m just thrilled.

I’m also glad this has inspired you. I really believe that creativity is an ocean; if you’re in it, you’ll get wet! We’re all influenced by one another, and that’s the way it should be. 🙂

Hey! Those are pretty good! Thanks!

I’m glad you like them, LaCresha! Enjoy! 🙂

15. Just the smell of it makes me want to run home and hide under my bed. The sight of it, on the other hand, is enough to make me dizzy and feel as though I was going to pass out and vomit at the same time. All my life and throughout my career as a police chief, I’ve never had to deal with any big cases. Nothing ever happens in small towns in Arkansas. But, now, after fifteen years of being a chief and twenty five years of being a police in general, something interesting was finally happening. It just so happened that this happening happened to be a disturbing, horrific, gut-wrenching homicide.

When I got the call I could barely believe what I was hearing. Someone had found an uncovered grave, in which was a fresh (yes, fresh) corpse. Oh, and I forgot to mention-the corpse had no head. After years of dealing with petty middle school criminals and rabid cats, there was an actual crime to be had. But the crime seemed completely unbelievable. So, I sent a few men down to the local cemetery to investigate. The news I received about ten minutes later was enough to send shivers down my spine. The men had found the body, just as the eyewitness had described it. And on top of that, a close inspection of the surrounding land revealed various body parts hidden in books and crannies around the cemetery. Body parts! For Pete’s sake, why did this have to happen in my town? I didn’t have time to ask questions, though. There was a killer on the loose, a psychotic, genuinely dark, and horrifying killer.

I already feel sympathy for your character, and your description is very thorough without being overly so. Your pov is consistent throughout, and the revelation of there being more body parts keeps me wanting to read. A very captivating piece. Well done.

I really like how you make this shocking by making the sheriff so shocked! Good stuff. plus your description of the smell made me sick (in a good way ) 🙂

Great start, Annie! I really hope you continue this. I see characterization and solid voice, and your pacing is great. 🙂 I love what you did!

Can I use this?

Nope! Sorry :/

While Wein cannot copy Annie’s writing (which was fab), I doubt anyone can stake a claim to the prompt of “small town police force has to deal with actual real crime” as a plot–it’s been done before, it will be done again. It’s how you write it, the characters, details, twists and locations you craft that will make it your own!

So, SmartWein, make something originally yours based on the foundational concept. It will be better because it came from your brain and is shaped around the story you create! Find a different crime, or a different protagonist, pick a different setting, write it yourself and you’re golden! Pick a setting that means something to you. Pick a crime that personally horrifies you. Then drop in that bored detective who hasn’t solved anything more complicated than Roe the Regular Drunk, Annie the Irregular Drunk and Jen the Incontinent domestic squabbling, one single “hit and run” that left a sixteen year old with a broken ankle and he saw the license plate number and Matt fessed up straight away, and Laurie’s cat climbing into the rafters of Jo and Ted’s grill… in ten years… but this crime has shocked everyone in this sleepy quiet town down to their ruffled toilet cozies.

It will be better for it.

When I can’t think of an idea, I pick a story I consider to have been terrible and think about how I would take its foundational idea and run it to a superior place. In this case, I recommend you took at Annie’s writing and figure out why it appealed to you, what aspects of it worked. Was it the sensory description? The character? The horrific crime? Once you understand why it appealed to you, you will then have an idea of what to tweak in your own ideas! Perhaps now you know you need to describe the crime with more. But will it be the reeking decomposing head covered in wriggling white maggots, the slimy femur covered in slick moss recovered from the dog’s mouth, the red bloodwashed room that tastes of iron when you breathe, or the ear-splitting shriek that comes from the direction of the dock and endless ocean? What twisted, demented ideas can YOU come up with? What a great mystery indeed! Aha! Ahahahhaa!

If you’ve come up with all these ideas yourself, I do take my hat off to you. Or doff the old top hat, as P G Wodehouse would say. I could spend a week on these!

Agreed! These were fun and interesting ideas!

Thank you, Kat! 🙂 I’m so glad you like them.

Haha! Thank you, Christine! I definitely take inspiration from the stories our world is filled with, but I do my best to make each one unique. 🙂 Enjoy!

Yesterday I sat down and started with #1, writing an opening scene. Will post it here as a separate comment, but it’s LONG. 🙂

This is my first time doing a practice exercise.

20. It was Helen who had found the bodies of their hosts. The poor girl had gone into the library after supper at the invitation of Sir Geoffrey to find herself a book to read to the younger children. Her scream had ricocheted through the eerily empty halls, alerting both Doris and the manors’ butler Wilfred. That had been a while ago, and Doris was still attempting to comfort the girl unsuccessfully. Wilfred also had his hands full attempting to keep the younger children from entering the room where the bodies still sat. A single look passed between the two adults, followed by a slight incline of both their heads. Doris stood up, guiding Helen up the staircase with one arm around the girls still shaking shoulders. The other reached out towards the butler as they passed, a flask being swiftly stowed away for use on the unsuspecting children. As she reached the first floor landing, Doris turned to look back. He still stood at the foot of the stairs, watching after them. A silent sentinel, a pillar of strength in a time of such uncertainty. She allowed the briefest expression of gratitude to cross her face before continuing on. They would have time to talk she knew, once the children were asleep.

Intriguing! I like the pace. I feel like you have the beginning of a solid story line.

I LOVE it! Working on the characterization of the butler as well really helps to expand this beautifully. I hope you keep writing it! Great first-time practice. You’ve caught my attention!

#9 from the top half-this is a really rough draft – 15 minutes is very short. I like this idea a lot and hope to expand it to something real at some point

David lifted his head from the monitor screen, and pushed the thick frame of his glasses so they perched on the bridge of his nose. He stared down at the lines of code. This was no ordinary scripting. If allowed to exist in this environment the company would be a gateway for any hacker with any know-how at all to abscound with sensitive data, financial information, possibly even money itself. Anyone that got through that gateway would easily be able find their way to whatever information they desired. He looked over the code once more and checked the interface as well to see if there were anything obvious to the end-user. He decided the interface looked normal.

He took screen shots of the code and the interface, and logged the occurrence. Then he notified the project manager, Sam Wolfe.

He used instant message:

Hey, I found some strange scripting while updating the firewall. I sent u screenshots and logged the problem Check log h259.

Wolfe shot back

I’ll take a look and let u know what I think. Thanks 4 the heads up.

Back to the code. He deleted the miscreant code. Just for good measure he ran a scan on the machine and on the servers as well.

*grins* Oooh, I was hoping someone would grab this one! It’s one of my favorites (probably because this IS my husband’s job, haha).

I think this is a GREAT first draft. Your writing practice is terrific! Thank you for sharing it! I hope you continue it, too.

Scotland Yard’s top Inspector, recovering from a fall, has read about an explosion at a chemist’s. (I’m using the English term for drug store in this tale.) Four people died, including the chemist. ( Pharmacist over here.) Now McDougall is trying to determine the intended victim and the why.

“Nasty piece of work, that. I read the account in The Times Online last night.” Charles McDougall shook his head. “Hate to see innocent people killed. Or were they innocent? Which of them was the real target?”

Tony, his younger colleague reproved him. “Mac, old pal. You’re here to rest, relax, and heal up. You’re not to give a thought to mini bombs and targets right now. And the next time you go flying down some stairs, take a cushion. You could have broken your neck, you know, and Scotland Yard can’t function without you.”

“Right. The wisdom of my hoary head and all that. So who’s got the case and what has he found out so far?”

“Are you deaf, Inspector? I just said…” Tony paused as a pretty nurse entered the room. His dark eyes gave her the once-over as she set a small paper cup on McDougall’s bed table.

“Here’s your pain meds. Now let’s take your temps, love.” She stuck a thermometer prong in McDougall’s mouth. “Can’t have you getting infection on us.”

Tony grabbed at his stomach. “Ow! Help! I’ve got this sudden, awful pain. Gall bladder maybe, or appendicitis. Will you stick me in a bed somewhere and nurse me back to health, too, sweetie?” He gave her a big grin.

With one hand the nurse pulled a wicked-looking hypodermic needle out of her pocket and waved it in Tony’s direction. “See this? We poke everyone who complains of a pain with three of these. Hospital policy. You’d be surprised how many visitors it cures on the spot.” She set the syringe down beside him where he could fully appreciate its size, then turned to record her patient’s temperature on the chart by his bed.

Tony eyed the needle lying beside him. “Three, eh? I feel so much better already. Fancy dinner some evening — away from these barbaric devices?”

She laughed. “I’ll see what my boyfriend has to say about that. He’s quite partial to seafood, if that’s what you’re thinking of having.”

“Oh, well. Another time, then.”

She picked up the needle, gave him an exaggerated wink and walked out of the room.

“Some friend you are,” McDougall grumbled. “Here I am at death’s door and all you’re thinking of is running off with my nurse.”

Tony turned back to his fellow Inspector. “Hey, I’m a lonely guy. No one to come home to; no one to cuddle with in the wee hours. Can’t blame me for trying.”

McDougall snorted. “Maybe if you’d quit loving them and leaving them you’d have someone to come home to. You get distracted so easily, Weekes. I asked who got the case.”

“Barrows was asked to take a peek at it. Which he did, and reported the basics to us in a briefing this morning. Scotland Yard hesitates to get involved; minor stuff like this the local police should be able to handle. The only reason we’re looking into it at all is because two of the victims are ‘persons of note’ so there could be a bigger picture.”

“Adam O’Connor being one.”

“Right. Even though he’s small potatoes in local politics, it never hurts to take a look.”

McDougall shifted in his bed and wiggled his broken leg in the brace that held it. The younger man jumped up and stepped toward the bed, extending his arm and a bit of TLC. “Need some help getting settled there, Mac?”

McDougall grabbed onto Tony’s solid forearm and heaved himself up a bit. “Thanks. I’m good now. Hate this traction business! All because my sister’s grandson dropped his ice cream cone on the top stair step. Anyway, maybe someone didn’t like O’Connor’s particular policies? Or had he some shady involvement that got out of hand?”

Tony sat back down. “Doubt it. Pretty mild sort. At least not involved in any controversies apt to get him killed. And the other victim ‘of note’ was the daughter of Pierson Rathmore.”

“The mob boss? So that was the school girl. Rat-tat-tat.”

“Yeah. Her name wasn’t released in the news, least not as of this morning.” Tony brushed his fingers through his dark hair. “I wouldn’t want to be the bloke who planted that bomb. Not with Pierson Rathmore on my trail — and he will be. He’ll have several of his boys out looking for the fellow. As you say, ‘rat-tat-tat.’ If we don’t get the perp first, he’ll be floating down the stream without a boat.”

“But she couldn’t have been the target. Someone wanting to settle a score with Rathmore plants a bomb that hits her happenstance at a drug store? Not likely. Rathmore has a couple of sons, too; if this were to hurt him, seems the perp would have aimed for one of them rather. ”

“Well, the girl — his only daughter— was dear to his heart. Everyone knew it. And maybe not quite as much security clustered round her as around the heirs. Also, apparently, she had this regular habit: every Monday on her way home from school she stopped in at this particular chemist’s to buy a chocolate bar. One of our agents kept tabs of Rathmore’s children for awhile back when we were trying to nail him over some mysterious disappearances.”

“Every Monday? And she was eleven? Now that is curious.” McDougall’s gaze turned toward the window as he pondered this fact. How many eleven-year-olds would have a regular habit like that?

“We’re checking out the chemist who was killed, too. Blake Mederach, late twenties. Seems his name’s been mentioned in police notes a time or two. Possible traffic in prescription drugs. Nothing proven, though.”

“And the unidentified woman? Your average housewife stopped to fill a prescription?” McDougall frowned. “Hand me that glass of water, will you.”

Tony stood and passed him the glass. “Mrs Annette Reeves. Nothing on her at all. Active in the church ladies, PTA, that sort of thing. Likely an innocent lamb who stayed longer than she intended. A witness who left the drug store a few minutes earlier said they heard O’Connor nattering to her about one of his future projects for the community. Unless something turns up, we’re assuming being there at the time of the explosion was simple happenstance for both of them.”

“Yeah. A jealous husband or lover may pop in waving a gun, but bombs are a little out of their league. As you say, just in the wrong place at the wrong time. My wife should be dropping by shortly; I’ll get her to attend the lady’s funeral and keep her ears open. She won’t mind doing that.”

“I’ll mention that at the next brief. Now I’d best be off. Oh… Hello!” Tony’s eyes lit up as a slim young woman stepped into the room and looked around. Her long blond hair was pinned up on her head with a barrette and she was wearing a stethoscope round her neck.

“Hello, gentlemen. Hope I’m not interrupting something? I was just passing by and thought I’d take a peek in, see how you’re doing, Mr. McDougall.”

Her bright blue eyes studied him. He could almost hear Tony’s heart rate shooting up.

“I’m surviving,” he replied, taking note of her bright blue eyes. He could almost feel Tony’s pulse rate shooting up. Right now his visitor’s eyebrows were waggling up and down, signalling frantically for an introduction. McDougall sighed.

“Sorry, Love,” he said. “I know you’re the Resident for this ward, but I’ve forgotten your name.”

“Doctor Lundgren. At your service, sir.” She grinned at him, then picked up the patient’s chart. “All vitals well, I see. Much pain.”

“Not really. One bad one right now. Allow me to introduce my colleague, Anthony Wolf — I mean Weekes.”

“Pleased to meet you, Doctor Lundgren. Delighted. Enchanted, even,” Tony held out his hand. Behind her back, McDougall rolled his eyes upward.

She gave it a firm shake, responding to his smile with one of her own. “Nice meeting you as well, Mr-Wolf-I-mean-Weekes.”

“Sorry you have to go, Tony,” McDougall said pointedly. “Do come again this evening and bring more news.”

Dr Lundgren turned back to the patient, replacing his chart. “Well, keep up the good work, then. Get lots of rest.” She chuckled and patted his braced-up leg, then spun around and marched out of the room.

Tony followed her into the hall and McDougall heard him offering some worried-tone malarkey. “You know, Doctor, I’m quite concerned about my pal. He seems edgy and uptight, letting work issues bother him too much. Could we maybe discuss this over lunch?”

McDougall didn’t hear her answer. He shook his head. What was that old saying about chasing the butterfly of happiness?

Then he opened the laptop sitting on the night table in front of him. For now he’d do what he could to puzzle out the drug store bombing. Later, once he had his leg all plastered up with a sturdy walking cast, he’d give Tony a good swift kick in the pants.

I. LOVE. What you did with this. The humor is just fantastic! The pacing is really fun, and I wanted to keep reading! I hope you want to continue with it. 🙂

In fact I do. This is one “exercise” where I saw not just the opening scene, but more of the story unfolding and I want to work it all out. When I do, I’ll post it in parts on my fiction blog and leave you the link here.

And then I’ll start on suggestion #2. 🙂

This is TERRIFIC! Did you ever finish the story?

Thank you! No, I didn’t — shame on me! It got shoved to the back burner and seems to have fallen off the stove — but I think of it now and then. 🙂

Okay, here we go… #3 ( and I have never read The Orient Express either!)—

Elsa hops on the train and, book in hand, takes a seat. She relaxes and opens her book. Elsa looks around before she begins to read. She is a librarian and a mystery buff, and she enjoyed anything related to mysteries. Growing up, she was an only child and found ‘brothers’ and ‘sisters’ in the books she read. As Elsa reads, a scream pierces the air. Startled, she looks up; half thinking that she imagined it. But this was not true; people are nervously glancing around and an elderly woman had fainted. Elsa gets up and closes her book. She steps into the aisle, puts her book on her seat, and walks to where she thinks the scream came from. ‘In the back of the train… The bedrooms, maybe!’ Elsa thinks. She pushes her auburn hair away from her face and walks to the bedroom hallway. Elsa notices a door is slightly ajar, so she steps closer to it. In one movement, she flings the door open and steps inside. She gasps. A man lies prostrate on a bed, purple finger marks on his neck. Elsa turns on the light and walks to the man’s side. Suddenly, she thinks that she might be blamed for the murder, so she steps away. Almost immediately, a policeman and the conductor appear in the doorway. The conductor faints on the spot while the policeman rushes over to the dead man. With a quick glance, the policeman compares Elsa’s hands to the marks on the man’s throat. “You didn’t do it; I know better than that, anyway,” he assures her. Elsa nods and tells him, “A man did it, judging by those fingerprints.” The policeman covers the body with a bed sheet and blanket, and motions for Elsa to help him with the conductor. The policeman and Elsa drag the conductor from the room and into the hallway. Once there, the policeman releases his hold on the conductor and closes the bedroom door.

Elsa runs back to her seat in the front half of the train and something strikes her as odd. She picks up her book and flips to a certain page. Elsa finds that the murder (and the setting!) is identical to her book, The Orient Express. Elsa again flips through the book to see what happens next. The train crashes into a snow bank, the people on board are stuck, and the murderer is on the loose.

That night, Elsa lies in her bed looking out the window at Mars’ scenery, wide-awake. She tries to banish the bone chilling, fleeting thoughts flying through her head. A small thud announces the presence of something… or someone! She turns on the bedside lamp. A half-day more on this trip- and more if the train crashes! Elsa thinks wearily. She grabs something from under her pillow. Elsa turns the light off, while silently hopping out of bed and pulling on fluffy bunny slippers. She pads out into the hallway with a penlight and runs over the events in the story again. What was that? She spins around and flashes the light in the direction of the cargo/baggage hold. Elsa backs into a corner. The blood freezes on her veins when the sound of footsteps – not her own – filter through the cargo door. Elsa flicks the penlight off and hides behind a large vase nearby. There was just enough room for her to maneuver into a position where she could see the cargo door. The door opens and a person clad in black steps out from the shadows. Elsa stifles a gasp when she sees the person’s face. But she calms down when she holds the penlight tin one hand- and a gun in the other. She covers the penlight’s small bulb, turns it on, and throws it to the other side of the small hallway, creating a spinning light sure to catch the person’s eye. The person (or should I say man) quietly speeds to the light and Elsa courageously steps out with the gun pointed at the man. “Hands up!” she orders calmly. The man, startled, spins around. By the look on his face he is shocked… and amused. Elsa sure was a sight to behold: pink-and-red pajamas, bunny slippers, and tangled hair. The man slowly laughed and sped down the corridor only to be stopped by the policeman. The man gives; he puts his hands up. The policeman closes in on him and handcuffs the man. Elsa takes a breath. “Why, conductor?” she asks incredulously. The murderer was the conductor. “I’m a retired actor and I needed fame again, even if people didn’t know who I really was. The stupid movies makers thought I was getting useless, so they kicked me out with a coulpla’ hundred dollars in payment!” he shouted. “I was going to be the star in the movie production of The Orient Express, but they traded me in for some guy five years my senior. And plus, I knew how the plot went!” Elsa nodded.

Then, she explained her part: “I went to the policeman here and told him how it fitted tight along with the plotline of The Orient Express, and my suspicion of what was to happen. He agreed and he gave me one of his guns. Thankfully, I was right and now you are caught, the people are safe, and I can sleep.” Elsa handed the gun to the policeman and padded back to her room, where she collapsed on her bed and fell asleep.

WOO! What an exciting ride! I love that you chose present-tense for this; it made all the action more immediate, like I was walking alongside her.

The bunny slippers were a great touch, too! 🙂 Thanks for sharing!

As the president of the drama club and debating society, a member of the music club and the vice-president of the Leaders Book Club, Tolu had a lot on her plate. She was also the Student Head of the junior school where she had only just enrolled at the beginning of the school term despite being a transfer student. She had had to turn down the position of class president when she turned Student Head.

She knew her classmates snickered behind her back everyday but there was nothing she could do about it. She was called an over acheiver and all sorts of names that made her ire rise but she turned a blind eye.

With just one more term to go before the end of the session, her parents were quite worried that she had not invited any friends home nor had she mentioned any. They had tried to broach the matter with her but it was futile.

Meanwhile, her studies did not suffer and she was the school’s darling. She was very organised and precise. But when the school decided to set up a chess club and make Tolu the president, without any votes, other children began to plot. The taunts became more obvious. The jeers became louder.

And so on a certain sunny afternoon when she left her class to make her way to the teachers office for a meeting with one of her tutors, she decided to take the long route in order to avoid some of her enemies. In her thirteen year old mind, she was plotting moves using an imaginary chess board. She was winning the chess game when a shadow momentarily blocked out the light. It lasted only for a few seconds but her curiosity overtook her. She was walking behind the windows and it seems that someone had just risked the principals wrath by sneaking into his office.

Worse yet, that person was holding a file, the kind opened in every students name when they join the school. The files that have details of students lives and the things that teachers observe without wanting the student to find out. As Tolu saw this, she decided to investigate. Still carrying her heavy school bag on her back, she decided to find out who it was and who was coward enough to steal students file. She resolved that she would investigate and inform the principal, afterwards.

Crouching, she stole closer to the principals window and peeped into the office.

Hi, is it alright if I use some parts of the ideas listed here in my own stories, rather than following the prompt word by word? I’ve been working on an episodic detective series for my college portfolio and I’m out of ideas. I really like a few of the mysteries presented here and would like my teen detective to solve them.

This isn’t any of the above just another story idea:

21. Cody is a casual teenager who wants to fulfil his dream of being hypnotised; when hypnotist David finally comes to town Cody pays a visit. David’s attempt to hypnotise Cody ha gone wrong; Cody is stuck in an unbreakable trance which has made a connection between his and David’s mind. Whatever David thinks, Cody does. Will David’s biggest desire of vengeance succed or will it fail….

This is the first time in years thats im trynna write fiction. This is #13 here, i forgot the name so came up with Mark.

It was a typical Sunday in the metro station, deserted. On any other day, the platform would be swarming with daily office commuters but on the weekends and especially Sundays there would be but handful. As Mark entered the platform, he was pleased to see the emptiness. Travelling in the stuffed metros was always a pain. He checked the clock hanging over head, 10 minutes for the next train. Less people meant lesser frequency of trains. He stationed himself right where he always stood , beside the first of many pillows along the length of the platform. A train hustled itself behind him on the opposite route. Among the people coming out were couples, families on a holiday trip and few other men and women. But one particular person caught Mike’s attention. He wore an old discoloured shirt and shorts, not what people wear when travelling. He looked sort of in his 30’s, physically well built but of stout height. He bad bruises on his cheeks, clear sign of being on the receiving end of punches. Walking hurriedly on the platform, he kept watching backwards. Suddenly he started running, tripped and collided with Mark sending both men on the ground. Before Mark could react, the man was up and away. It did not take Mark long to figure out why the man had started running, he saw a group of men coming towards him, apparently chasing that guy. They did not give him a second look and kept running.

Mark was surprised at the happenings. In his 3 years of travel though the metro, he had never witnessed anything like this. He was still coming back to his senses when another train pulled up. This time, it was on his desired route. He quickly walked to the edge of platform waiting for the train to stop. At that moment, he heard a loud bang ricochetting in the underground. He froze right where he stood. Unmistakably, that was a gun shot!

I just read these mystery ideas. I love them all so much. I was planning on writing a mystery for my first Nanowrimo novel in November. Idea #7 gave me so many great ideas for my novel! Do you mind if I use it?

I loved the ideas. I was looking for an idea to apply to a bunch of background material I have, but couldn’t find anything that fit, so I thought I’d mention it here and see if you have thoughts. In short, I’ve been in contact with the descendants of the mutineer’s on the HMS Bounty. If you recall, after taking the ship, they found an uncharted island in the Pacific called Pitcairn where the 30 descendants live today. I just happen to have tons of material on how they live, celebrate Christmas – many colorful stories for background color. I was trying to think of a cozy mystery idea on, or off, the island with a hypothetical descendant. They are visited by supply ships every other month and small cruise ships three times a year. Not much to go on. Any thoughts or ideas would be appreciated. Note – I’m a maritime history writer that’s looking to move the the Mystery genre.

16. Running though streets, abandoned, was something he had never seen himself doing in his mind’s eye. The steady rhythm of his feet was echoed by the equal rhythm of his attacker’s footsteps. Blood mixed with sweat ran down the lean, wrinkled face of the victim, his heart pumping as he realized that his fate would be the same as Melissa’s: death. He had reached a dead end in the street…and his life. His attacker grabbed him, threw him on the ground, then took his time in creating pain for the victim.

Sally Fortnight put her brick-red hair into a neat french braid as she remembered how nearly she had lost her head earlier on that year. She was tired of sitting at home on leave. Being a cop in the police department of Phoenix, Arizona, was her life, her being, and a psychopath cutting a careful line along her collarbone and a cut starting at her ear and making its way to halfway along her cheek, intended to go to her mouth, slow and painful without anesthetic. She touched her scars on her hands and looked down at similar scars on her bare feet where she had been drilled into a metal table. Her green eyes teared up as she remembered the look on his face as he went about his work. She had loved him, and she never knew what had hit her. Her daze was interrupted by a ring on the doorbell. She quickly grabbed her 9 millimeter and looked through her oaken door’s eye hole. A Phoenix detective badge was held up at the hole, and a female voice called out, “Detective James, Phoenix Police Department, Homicide!” Sally opened her door and embrace her best friend, her partner, and her confident in everything.

Could i take number 7 and turn it into a story and publish on Wattpad? Would that be okay?

Thank you very much!

You use Wattpad too?

My timer went off right as I was finishing up the last sentence… how ironic! I used #13 for this story.

Daniel Rodriguez – Dan to his few friends – was a simple man. He took the subway in the mornings to his day job, he always wore a hoodie (the train was cold, thank you very much), and he had to have his music. The swaying train coupled with the complete separation from outside noise made the perfect environment for him to write. He hadn’t been published yet, but he wrote nonetheless. He loved mysteries – he wanted to be famous for them some day. “Hey! Watch it!” “Look where you’re going!” Annoyed exclamations and shouts that Dan could actually hear over his music made him snap out of his thoughts. With a scowl on his face, he took out his earbuds, and looked up to see what the commotion was about. He saw a man, shoving past people and trying his hardest to run. The man had dark, tanned skin and intense features, but he couldn’t make out much else besides that and his clothes, which were distinctly middle-eastern. He stood to get a better look, but as soon as he had, the man nearly ran him over. With an ‘ooph!’ and a loss of breath, he was practically slammed back into his seat. Dan couldn’t even find the will to react; he only gave an incredulous look and shook his head. Whatever, it wasn’t his problem. By the time the middle-eastern man was out of sight, however, another strange occurrence happened. A group of men in dark-colored suits and sunglasses pursued him, moving equally as fast, if not faster. Saying nothing to anyone – and ignoring the cries of the people they pushed over in their pursuit – Dan watched them go by with intrigue. “Is it the feds? Are they chasing that guy?” he asked the woman sitting next to him, who seemed equally as intrigued as he was. She only shrugged. “No idea. Oh, hey, I think you dropped your notebook.” She pointed to Dan’s composition journal, which he wrote down all of his ideas and character designs. He mumbled a ‘thank you’ to the woman, embarrassed, but leaned down to pick it up. When he did, something small fell out of the pocket of his hoodie. His eyebrows furrowed and he looked at it for a second. It was a small package, neatly wrapped in newspaper and tied with string. He had no idea what it was or where it had come from. He picked up his journal and the package, but before he had much time to think about it, there was a gunshot. Startled, he shoved both of them in his bag and stood. Everyone in the train car went deadly silent, waiting for what happened next. With a squeal, the train slowed to a halt. Police bombarded the subway when it stopped, and when the door to the next car opened, Dan could see what happened. “Oh my god… that guy was…” he choked out. The middle-eastern man from before was clutching a bloody stomach wound, barely holding on. The men in suits were nowhere to be found. With the last of his strength, the man looked Dan dead in the eye. Dan gulped, feeling a chill run down his spine. The man gave a short nod, and then his eyes slid closed and did not open again. Dan felt frozen in place – he could hardly process what was going on. Then, suddenly, he remembered the package. With trepidation, he pulled it out of his bag. “What in the world have I gotten myself into…?” he murmured, eying the package. And yet, even as he thought this, he knew he shouldn’t turn it in to the police. The man’s nod was one of trust, one that said he was depending on Dan. He couldn’t just give it up so easily. There was only one problem nagging at his mind: what was in the package?

I need a murder mystery escape room idea. U see, the group I was working with kicked me out but kept my idea as the purge. So I have to start all over, so I decided to start all over. I’m not sure what kind of clues I need AND materials. HELP!!

Hi! I’m 14 years old and I’m writing a story that is about a murder of a 14 year old girl’s boyfriend. I need some more ideas about how I should continue… Please help me!

Make it interesting by making the girlfriend murder him

Ahh… I should make her have a demon that controlled her that night and have her remember she killed him! Great idea! Thanks so much!

I’m thinking of using #18 (and adapting it, maybe for NaNoWriMo). Maybe the watch is a time machine.

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I like the ideas. They catch your attention and let your imagination free. It helps a lot for the young ones who want to take up writing in the future. Thanks. Waiting for a lot more ideas to help me become an author.

I spent nearly a year on my first book. It was easy because I inserted myself into the story line. It’s published and I am now working on a private detective novel. The ideas here are great but after 38,000 words I hit a brick wall. I have been stalled for 2 days now. thanks for the article

#1 Charles’ eyes riveted around the unfamiliar room. He stared at his leg, feeling perturbed. This had to be the WORST time to be a clumsy detective. He folded his arms and gave a sulky pout, like a five year old. Then, Christina, his lowly nurse, burst in with a large food tray. She gave Charles a big smile. “Looks like today’s full of mystery.” She set the food tray down. Charles’ eyebrows flew up. “What?” She looked around the room to see if anyone else was up. “Some gas leak caused an “explosion that killed 4 people.” Charles’ eyeballs almost bulged out of his head. “Killed who?” “There was the housewife, a minor politician, a young chemist, about twenty or so, and… oh yeah! Damian’s daughter.” Damian was THE worst mobster Scotland Yard had ever seen. Charles realized there was a mystery to solve. He smirked. I am a preteen so I know my little paragraph wasn’t the best. Any feedback on how to improve and polish my story will be great, thanks.

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Incredible Mystery Story Ideas: 65 Creative Mystery Writing Prompts

March 9, 2022

There are few things as satisfying as fleshing out a fantastic idea. It’s a great creative writing exercise . Many writers use short writing prompts as inspiration for story starters.

What makes a good prompt? It’s relatively simple: a good prompt has a who and a what. You don’t necessarily need a where or when, but they can be included to form a more specific mystery plot.

But what if you can’t think of anything? Here are 65 mystery writing prompts to get you started. Any of these ideas can be turned into a short story or a mystery novel!

Mystery Story Ideas And Mystery Writing Prompts

Mystery story starters.

Below are starters to help you in conceptualizing, imagining, and creating a new mystery story:

The fast-paced city you currently reside in turns out to be moving irregularly one day. People wander around slowly, cashiers swipe items slowly, and cars seem to be slower than your walking pace. Everything slows down except you.
A man visited his best friend’s house, only to find a scrapbook with pictures where his face has been intentionally erased.
A woman has arrived home after work one night, only to noticed that there is not one other light in her apartment building that is on except for hers. Where did the other people go? And who is inside her apartment?
A group of teenagers were looking for an adventure, they end up at an abandoned house; a series of screams followed their entrance.
A man was browsing his emails one night, when a new email pops up saying: “Someone will knock on your door; no matter what it takes, secure the door.”
A person is detained for a crime and believes that they are innocent but their DNA is on the murder weapon and the clothes of the dead body. As a detective, you have to find ways to prove their innocence.
A woman’s grandfather passed away and left his last will. However, on the day before its reading, the attorney was nowhere to be found and has disappeared without a trace.
An 80-year-old woman is convinced that you were her teacher in 1950 and added that you were her favorite. However, you were born in 1994.
A man wakes up and everything feels like deja vu . Is it because of the wrong choice he made the night before?

Historical Story Ideas and writing prompts

The following prompts include mysteries in the ancient world.

As the head archaeologist on the dig, you get the honor of opening up the sarcophagus. What a surprise it is to find a cell phone in a thousand-year-old tomb.
An ancient artifact arrives at the museum you work at. Your mentor is tasked with dating and placing the piece. When you come in the next day, you find your mentor murdered and the artifact missing.
A man who struck it rich in the gold rush suddenly disappears, leaving nothing but a cryptic note.
A sharp-tongued guard and the mayor’s aid team up in WWII Germany and try to find the true killer of the mayor. Plot twist: it’s the guard.
A defense attorney and the high school-aged son of the murder victim team up together to find the murderer, only to realize it’s actually a suicide.
The main character is a mafia member in 1920’s New York who has to get away with murder.
A story set in the 1900’s where the entire police force is complacent in the crime.

mystery writing prompts for mystery stories, mystery writers

Classic Murder Mystery Plot Ideas

A new boy arrives in your small town just in time for something to go terribly wrong at the yearly homecoming parade, resulting in at least one death. As chaos depends on your high school, one has to ask, “Who is responsible?”
A dead body turns up at your apartment. The local police chief of your small town is convinced you are responsible, and he’s determined to find the evidence to arrest you.
A woman is missing and presumed dead. As a private detective, you aren’t limited by the law the same way police officers are. You’re stumped, that is, until the next-door neighbor is killed, and you were the last person to see her alive. Well, besides the murderer.
Even as an experienced detective, you’re still surprised when someone confesses to a murder they’re convinced they committed, mostly because you know they didn’t do it. Or did they?
A relationship ends, and the following day the man is found dead.
A recording of a confession of murder is dropped off at your station. As the head detective, you’re tasked with finding out who the victim is and who the killer is.
A hardboiled PI and a stranded bridesmaid enter the underbelly of society after a mass grave is discovered.
A baker who consistently stumbles into trouble is the main suspect in a murder investigation.
A story starts with, “I was twenty-one when I first met my killer.”
The detective is atoning for murdering a man in his youth.
A murderous hitchhiker must be caught before he strikes again, but it’s the 70’s and everyone hitchhikes.
A housekeeper that is a hoarder finds a decayed body in her home under a pile of things.

Mystical/Magical writing prompts

Your best friend goes missing, and in the chaos that ensues, you find out she’s a practicing witch. Does this have anything to do with her disappearance?
You follow the detective as he solves the murder, only to find out he’s narrating how his own death occurred.
You find a secret door in an abandoned manor you’re exploring. Upon opening it, you step back in time. Who put the door there and why? Why is the house abandoned?
Murder victims keep turning up surrounded by strange symbols. They look like ritual killings but end up being something entirely different.
You buried your sister years ago, yet here she is at your doorstep. Which one was the imposter, and which one is your real sister?
You’re haunted by your lover’s ghost (literally), and you have to find out who killed them.
A haunted house is sold in the suburbs. The protagonist can hear the ghosts, and they’re begging her to solve their murders.
A lost wallet appears in front of you on the sidewalk, and when you pick it up, you’re transported back in time and must solve the missing person’s case before you can return.
A flight vanishes mid-air, lost in another dimension.

General writing prompts

Someone is proposed to. The only problem is, where is their current spouse?
Your best friend stops by to say hi. The only problem is they’ve been missing for the better part of five years. They have no recollection of any missing time at all.
Secret Santa starts off with a bang when the first present is a mangled hand. Unfortunately, as the rest of the presents are unwrapped, the manager’s body emerges, piece by piece.
The family is together for the first time in a decade, all to read grandpa’s will and see who gets what. No one was prepared for the winner to take all approach that grandpa took towards catching his murderer.
A reporter investigating policy corruption disappears.
A house fire and a burglary next door appear unconnected, but a mysterious note implies otherwise.
An heiress is missing and doesn’t want to be found. Is finding her the right thing to do?
A forensic scientist and a babysitter are drawn into a decades-old cold case. Is the killer even alive anymore?
A serial killer that’s never been caught aids in the investigation of a different serial killer.
A manipulative janitor finds a missing child in the basement of the school he works for. How did he get there?
A hardboiled PI with a double identity must keep his secret safe, as he is thrust into the spotlight.
A whodunit story about drug trafficking that starts with a live alligator being thrown through the farmhouse window.
A story where every witness is lying about everything but one fact and when those facts are combined the truth can be found.
A story where the key suspect is a hallucination.
A story where the protagonist is the murder victim.
A story idea where the detective solved the crime but is suffering amnesia.
Evidence arrives at the detective’s door that may reopen a decade-long cold case.
The husband is in denial that his wife is missing at all and keeps trying to give evidence that she’s still around.
A story is set in a prison where the killer is already caught, but no one knows it.
A priest’s dead body is found by his congregation.
A story where the murder scene and mystery are told through a child who doesn’t understand everything.
A story where two characters who are never in the same scene together turn out to be the same person.
The FBI agent is completely incompetent yet somehow stumbles across the truth.
A story where a minor character is actually the killer.
A story where one of the characters has a secret that everyone knows exists but is never revealed.
A story where the protagonist fails, and the killer gets away (for now).
A story that simultaneously takes place in two different timelines.
A story where the protagonist’s main objective is revenge, and he’ll take down anyone who gets in his way, regardless of who they are.
They’re racing the clock to find someone buried alive.
A story where a blue-collar crime spans four decades and two generations.
A story that is non-linear and involves a spy searching for a murder weapon.
A story where the protagonist is a sociopath, but the reader doesn’t know. They may or may not be the actual villain.
A story where the key witness is a compulsive liar.
Write a story that is a retelling of a Shakespearean tragedy.
A journalist is wrongfully accused of murder and thrown in jail. From there, he must find a way to solve the crime and bring the actual murderer to justice.
A story where the serial killer had been put to death a decade ago, but it is now back.
A story where someone overhears something they aren’t supposed to and is kidnapped. The detective has to find them.

Mystery Story Ideas to improve your writing skills

Using These Prompts as Plot Ideas

There is no right or wrong way to use these mystery writing prompts, whether you write them exactly as suggested or you alter them as you see fit.

The purpose isn’t to come up with a perfect piece that follows the prompt exactly, but rather to get your brain flowing so you can write more within the mystery genre.

Depending on the amount of time you have and the length of the piece you decide to write, you can easily work through a prompt a day. Choosing a prompt is as easy or as complicated as you make it. You can randomly choose one, or you can sort through them to find the perfect prompt.

Once you have the right prompt , the length of the story has to be determined. You can write a snippet, a short story , you can write a full-length novel or begin a small series of mystery novels. It’s entirely up to you.

It’s always helpful to have prompts lying around, whether the prompt is from your own mind that you scribbled down or if it was from someone else because prompts help you get the creativity started.

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100+ Mystery Story Ideas – A Guide to Spark Your Imagination

By: Author Paul Jenkins

Posted on Published: September 20, 2022 - Last updated: December 28, 2023

Categories Writing , Inspiration , Storytelling

Are you a lover of a gripping mystery? Well, you’re in for a treat!

As an investigative documentary film director, I’ve always been fascinated by the art of mystery storytelling.

In this article, I’ll give you a treasure trove of 100 mystery story ideas, sorted by genre, to ignite your imagination and get your creative juices flowing.

Whether you’re an experienced author or just beginning your writing journey, these imaginative prompts will inspire you.

As you explore these enticing story ideas, you will find intriguing plotlines and unique elements that make your mystery stand out from the rest.

From cozy mysteries and crime fiction to false clues and fascinating characters – we’ve got you covered!

Key Takeaways

Discover 100 mystery story ideas sorted by genre, perfect for igniting your imagination
Uncover unique plot elements and tips to create a captivating narrative
Enhance your writing with intriguing characters, false clues, and unexpected twists

10 Mystery Story Ideas

A Mysterious Figure In A Hooded Robe Navigates Through The Dense Forest, Clutching A Lantern Tightly.

Lost Girl: Imagine a young girl vanishing from her small town, leaving everyone puzzled about her whereabouts and the events leading to her disappearance.
Unsolved Murder: Picture a murder case with many baffling aspects, lacking a definite suspect or reason behind the crime.
Forest Secrets: Envision a shadowy forest concealing innumerable mysteries and hidden forces.
Haunted Mansion: Delve into a spooky mansion with dark, dust-covered halls and empty rooms echoing with peculiar sounds throughout the night.
Murder Series: Think about a series of horrifying murders with no apparent links or discernable patterns, leaving law enforcement utterly perplexed.
Cryptic Riddle: Explore a mysterious riddle guiding you along a winding path full of unexpected twists, resulting in disorientation and bewilderment.
Ancient Secrets: Contemplate an ancient book containing cryptic symbols and mysterious text that appears to unlock forbidden or hazardous knowledge.
Town Mystery: Visualize a quaint, eerie town where inhabitants seem to protect a deep, dark secret.
Cult Mystery: Consider a person disappearing after attending an enigmatic cult gathering, never to be seen again.
Family Secret: Ponder the sudden reappearance of a long-lost family member believed dead, not explaining their absence or return.

10 Murder Mystery Plot Ideas

Werewolf Suspect: In a small town, the sheriff looks into the homicide of a local woman and starts suspecting that the murderer could be a werewolf.
Vanishing Killer: A detective is on the trail of a serial killer who appears to vanish without a trace after each crime.
Conspiracy Discovery: While trying to figure out the cause of their friend’s death, a group of friends stumbles upon a conspiracy, making them believe the government is involved in the murder.
Crime of Passion: After discovering her husband’s infidelity, a woman kills him in rage, leading the detective on the case to start suspecting her involvement in the crime.
Robbery Gone Wrong: A man’s death seems to be the result of a botched robbery, but the investigation goes awry when it turns out someone close to him might have been involved.
Rose and Glasses: A murder victim is found in an alley with just a pair of broken glasses and a single red rose as the only clues to solve the case.
Forest Symbols: The naked body of a woman discovered in the middle of the woods appears to be covered with bizarre symbols.
Undercover at School: A detective goes undercover at an elite prep school to solve a student’s murder and begins to suspect that the killer may be one of the student’s classmates.
Mysterious Cruise Death: After a wealthy businessman’s death at sea on a cruise ship is declared a suicide, his wife begins to question if there was foul play involved.
Computer Clue: The mysterious death of a man leaves behind only a puzzling note on his computer as the sole clue to solving the murder mystery.

In each of these scenarios, you’ll have the opportunity to engage with elements of murder, whodunits, and murder investigations, all while keeping readers guessing until the very end. So, sharpen your detective skills and get ready to solve these captivating murder mysteries.

10 Cozy Enigma Ideas

Here are some cozy mystery ideas you can explore:

Detective Retreat: Imagine a group of amateur detectives visiting a small-town bed and breakfast, only to find themselves entangled in an intriguing mystery.
Bookstore Sleuths: Picture a cozy mystery series starring two sisters running a charming little bookstore while solving perplexing crimes together.
Countryside Mystery: Imagine a retired detective moving to the countryside for a peaceful life but unexpectedly becoming involved in an exhilarating mystery when her neighbor is discovered dead on her front lawn.
Book Club Conundrums: Contemplate a lively neighborhood book club that delves into thrilling mysteries and scandals while attempting to untangle each one.
Sherlock the Cat: Think of a crime-solving cat named Sherlock, strolling through his snug neighborhood and assisting his human friends with investigating mysterious occurrences and disappearances.
Sleuth’s Journal: Visualize an amateur detective with an insatiable curiosity, writing a personal journal that documents every case she cracks, no matter how small or seemingly insignificant.
B&B Mysteries: Consider an aspiring detective who transforms her home into a bed and breakfast in the hope her sleuthing abilities will come in handy if any of her guests encounter trouble during their stay.
Baking Detective: Ponder is a sleuth who loves baking and works as a private investigator, unfolding various exciting cases and striving to solve them all.
Moonlit Mysteries: Imagine an amateur investigator haunted by images of a mysterious woman wearing a long white dress whenever she walks out under the moonlight.
Divorce Dilemma: Picture a series of murders connected to a man’s acrimonious divorce, where both parties receive a fortune in truffles and a sinister warning, demanding they sign the divorce papers within a month.

These ideas feature elements such as small towns, cozy mysteries, and elderly women to enjoy as you create captivating stories.

10 Crime Fiction Ideas

Heist Betrayal: Imagine a group of criminals joining forces to execute a daring heist, only to discover one is a traitor. The tension mounts as they scramble to figure out who’s betraying them.
Detective’s Dilemma: Envision a seasoned detective hunting down a relentless killer. As the investigator gets closer to cracking the case, they are shocked to realize they might know the culprit better than anyone else.
Amnesiac’s Mystery: Picture a woman waking up in a hospital with no recollection of her identity or how she arrived there. She soon learns she’s been accused of a crime she can’t recall committing, making her quest for the truth even more harrowing.
Friend’s Quest: Consider a young woman brutally murdered, leaving her best friend determined to find the killer. As she delves into the investigation, she stumbles upon a tangled web of secrets and surprises.
Wrongful Conviction: Put yourself in the shoes of a man wrongly convicted of a crime. Desperate to clear his name and uncover the perpetrator, every minute counts as he strives for exoneration.
PI’s Predicament: Follow a private investigator as they take on what appears to be a simple case at first. But everything changes when they realize they’re on the trail of a ruthless psychopath who won’t go down without a fight.
Writer Detective: Explore the world of a crime writer who doubles as a detective. They embark on a chilling cold case revolving around the murder of a woman with an enigmatic connection to their family.
Officer’s Investigation: In the shoes of a police officer moonlighting as a private investigator, uncovering chilling evidence that deeply implicates a serial killer in a string of gruesome murders. The proof is so damning that it leaves everyone involved reeling.
Underworld Debt: Picture a man trying to make quick cash to pay off his debts, only to find himself entangled in the dangerous underworld of organized crime. He quickly realizes that extricating himself from this web of deceit will be no easy task.
Mobster’s Trap: Imagine a woman unwittingly immersed in a world of crime and corruption when she attempts to help a friend repay a debt owed to a ruthless mobster. The stakes couldn’t be higher as she navigates this treacherous terrain.

10 Murder Victim Mystery Writing Prompts

Two Men In Suits And Hats Wandering Through A Mysterious Street.

The Stolen Dreams: A young woman’s life is tragically cut short before realizing her dreams and ambitions.
The Silenced Musician: A talented young musician’s life is senselessly ended without any clear motive.
The Deceptive Accident: An elderly woman’s death is ruled an accident, but suspicious circumstances suggest foul play.
The Night Out Nightmare: A college student meets a gruesome end during a night out with friends, shocking everyone.
The Businesswoman’s Unsolved Murder: A prosperous businesswoman’s baffling murder leaves her community in disbelief and confusion.
The Innocent Victim: A tragic murder of an innocent bystander caught in a gang shootout, leaving a painful void in their family and community.
The Philanthropist’s Dark Ties: A wealthy philanthropist’s death reveals deep connections to dangerous criminal organizations, shocking those around him.
The Truth Seeker’s Demise: An investigative journalist’s dedication to uncovering the truth ultimately leads to their untimely death.
The Tragic Addict: A young man’s life is abruptly ended due to his addiction, leaving behind a legacy of unfulfilled potential.
The Lost Artist: A young woman with exceptional artistic talent and the power to inspire others is senselessly robbed of her future.

10 Murder Weapon Ideas

Calculated Poisoning: Imagine a meticulously calculated poisoning where the ideal dosage is used to guarantee a swift, painless end.
Sniper’s Choice: Envision a sniper rifle or another long-range firearm employed to eliminate a target from a safe distance, avoiding detection.
Deadly Meal: Picture a razor-sharp blade secretly placed in someone’s meal or drink, causing a quick and excruciating end.
Bomb Trap: Think of a bomb concealed in a person’s dwelling or office, resulting in instant death from the blast or a slow demise due to unattended injuries.
Poison Dart: Consider an untraceable poison dart aimed with lethal precision and effectiveness at its target.
Assassin’s Knife: Visualize a keen-edged knife in the hands of an expert assassin, capable of inflicting deadly wounds effortlessly and accurately.
Savage Beating: A savage beating brings about various severe injuries to the victim, who eventually dies in agonizing pain on the cold ground.
Hidden Gun: A firearm concealed within a folded newspaper or newsstand, ready to be used at any moment to abruptly terminate someone’s life.
Remote Explosion: A remote-controlled explosive device set off by someone knowing their target would be nearby, granting the victim little opportunity to flee.
Rampaging Fire: Picture a rampaging fire that burns uncontrollably, with an insatiable hunger to engulf everything in its path.

10 Investigative Agencies

Shadow Police: You come across a shadowy organization functioning as a high-level police unit, focused on dismantling criminal networks.
Secret Intelligence Agency: A secret agency gathers intel on various foreign governments and extremist factions, acting as a key crime-fighting asset for the government.
Elite Agents Group: Discover a hidden group of elite agents highly skilled and trained to handle the most demanding cases.
Private Detective Agency: A private detective agency partners with local law enforcers, offering valuable insights and support for complex cases.
Missing Persons Organization: A private organization excels in locating missing individuals, acting as detectives for those who vanished without experiencing violence.
Abduction Specialists: A detective agency specializes in finding abducted or forcibly detained missing people.
Paranormal Detectives: A covert team of detectives and investigators focus on solving paranormal or supernatural cases that can’t be addressed through regular methods.
Quirky Investigators: Meet a quirky and charismatic team of private investigators skilled in unraveling peculiar or challenging cases with grace and expertise.
Innovative Crime Solvers: A group of proficient detectives armed with cutting-edge tools, much of which they invented, solves the most difficult crimes.
Dark Secrets Uncovered: A team of seasoned detectives shares collective experience in uncovering the world’s darkest secrets and bringing them to light. Remember to keep a friendly tone and maintain a second-person point of view while discussing these investigative agencies in your article.

10 False Clue Ideas

The serial killer’s deceptive trail : Imagine a serial killer leaving false leads to mislead investigators and keep them busy searching for non-existent clues.
Accomplice-planted misinformation : Consider an accomplice or associate of the culprit providing investigators with false information to protect the true offender.
Personal vendetta setup : Picture someone with a grudge against the victim planting fake evidence to frame them for a crime they didn’t commit.
Deliberately withheld key details : Visualize crucial facts intentionally kept from investigators, possibly by the killer themselves or by someone shielding a loved one from punishment.
Shifty informant misguidance : Envision an informant or criminal enthusiast willingly feeding false information to bring the case closer to resolution.
The killer’s fabricated alibi : Ponder a killer weaving an intricate web of lies to appear innocent and drive suspicion away from themselves.
Contradictory witness accounts : Think about witnesses providing conflicting accounts of the crime, whether due to faulty memories or intentional deception.
An uncontainable rumor : Contemplate a rumor that spread rapidly after the crime, causing confusion among witnesses and investigators about the true events and perpetrator.
The wildfire false lead : Reflect on a phony clue that gained traction and was taken as fact, further clouding the case and helping the actual culprit escape.
The victim’s puzzling narrative : Imagine a story crafted by the victim before their demise to confuse investigators and guarantee the actual offender gets away.

Keep these false clue ideas in mind as you craft your mystery masterpiece, carefully weaving in elements of misdirection and intrigue to keep your readers enthralled until the very end.

10 Ideas for False Witnesses

Bribed Witness: Imagine a witness who is bribed by the criminal to point the finger at someone else, effectively steering the investigation in the wrong direction.
False Testimony for Escape: Consider a witness hoping to disentangle themselves from a crime by testifying falsely, thinking it will help them avoid being implicated.
Perpetrator as Witness: Envision a witness who is the perpetrator, providing a dishonest testimony in hopes of receiving a lighter sentence.
Protective Witness: What about a witness shielding the actual offender they care about and providing a misleading testimony?
Evading Responsibility: Picture a witness trying to evade responsibility for their role in a crime by framing someone else entirely.
False Claims for Leniency: A scenario exists where a witness makes false claims to dodge charges and achieve a more lenient punishment.
Inconsistent Testimony: You may encounter a witness whose testimony is confusing, leaving the investigators puzzled about the truth and reliability of their recollections.
Self-Protection: Consider a witness attempting to protect themselves from blame by avoiding another person’s accusations or appeasing their guilt-ridden conscience.
Compulsive Liar Witness: Beware of a compulsive liar witness willingly fabricating stories to throw the detectives off the trail of the actual wrongdoer.
Traumatized Witness: Sympathize with a witness who is so gravely hurt that their account of events is likely to be inaccurate due to their impaired mental state.

10 Crime Scene Ideas

An Illustration Of A City At Sunset, Evoking Mystery And Intrigue.

The Devious Setup: Picture a murder scene where the culprit cleverly staged everything to mislead investigators and throw them off track.
Tampered Evidence: Imagine a dead body that has been manipulated to destroy evidence or plant false clues, making the case even more baffling.
Gruesome Encounter: Visualize a crime scene so horrifying and shocking that it leaves you and other investigators feeling deeply disturbed.
Calm Amidst Chaos: Consider a crime scene that appears eerily tranquil and peaceful, in stark contrast to the savage nature of the crime that occurred there.
Clean Sweep: Envision a crime scene meticulously wiped clean of any DNA evidence, leaving investigators struggling to solve the case.
Isolated Incident: Ponder a crime scene situated in a remote, secluded location, making it difficult for you to access and conduct a thorough investigation.
Crowded Environment: Consider a crime scene in a bustling area, where constant interruptions make gathering evidence and speaking to witnesses challenging.
Hidden in Plain Sight: Imagine a crime scene in an ordinary location, with no apparent signs that something sinister has occurred there.
Public Sphere Complications: Visualize a crime scene within a public building, surrounded by witnesses and people with conflicting interests, further complicating the investigation.
Contaminated by Accident: Consider a crime scene inadvertently compromised by first responders, unwittingly tainting any potentially useful evidence.

What Makes a Good Mystery Story?

Engrossing plot development.

An intriguing mystery story thrives on suspenseful plotting. You want your story to grasp the reader’s attention from the get-go and hold it until the very end. Incorporate unexpected twists and turns, keeping your readers guessing and deeply engaged with the story. Crafting a mysterious and puzzling plot will leave your audience hungry for more.

Multifaceted Characters

To create a captivating mystery, you’ll need complex characters. Not just your protagonist, but also the supporting characters should be well-developed and believable. The most compelling mystery stories are those that make readers genuinely care about the characters and their predicament. Make sure your audience feels invested in the characters’ journey and eager for them to uncover the secrets and motives behind the mystery.

Gratifying Conclusion

Lastly, a rewarding resolution is essential for a great mystery story. Ensure that your story is well-crafted, tying up all loose ends in a neat and satisfying manner. The conclusion should make sense while avoiding any sense of disappointment or deception for your readers. Remember, the power of your mystery lies in your plot twists, suspense, and the unwrapping of hidden secrets, all culminating in a satisfying ending.

What Are Some Good Mystery Genre Topics to Write About?

Here are some captivating mystery genre ideas to inspire your creativity in crafting short stories or thrilling novels:

Delve into an unresolved cold case that has captured public attention for years, leaving readers wondering about the truth.
Explore supernatural occurrences in a haunted house where no one can stay for more than a year.
Uncover a dark secret simmering beneath the surface of a seemingly idyllic small town.
Chronicles the search for a missing person with an unexpected outcome, either found dead or alive.
Investigate an identity theft ring specifically targeting people within a certain profession.
Connect the dots between a series of murders and determine whether they point to a single suspect or multiple perpetrators.
Follow the elusive con artist who always manages to outsmart the police.
Delve into the unexpected consequences of a botched hostage situation and who is responsible for it.
Question the honesty of a witness who has come forward with vital information about a crime.
Reveal the family drama stemming from buried secrets and lies, and the upheaval caused when the truth finally surfaces.

Remember to keep your writing engaging and friendly as you invite your readers to become part of these mystery genre stories. Good luck in your creative journey!

How to Craft a Cozy Mystery

Step 1: develop an intriguing set of characters.

To create a captivating cozy mystery, start by designing a group of characters readers can relate to and invest in. Your main character should be someone they can empathize with and support, while your villain should evoke dislike. Reflect on your favorite books and movies to identify the emotions you want to invoke in your readers.

Don’t forget to fill your story with an interesting array of supporting characters. They can offer humor, assistance, or play a role in the crime itself. Make sure each character is well-developed and captivating.

Step 2: Concoct an Ingenious Offense

Next, focus on the crime your main character needs to unravel. Consider creating a puzzling situation that is not immediately evident to keep things challenging. Rather than murder, opt for crimes like theft, embezzlement, or fraud. You can also personalize the crime for your main character, such as having their pet kidnapped or their home burglarized.

With the crime in mind, delve into the details. Who is the perpetrator? How did they commit the offense? And most importantly, for what reason? Addressing these questions will help shape your story with added intrigue for the readers. For instance, if the victim was at odds with your protagonist, it could provide an extra incentive for solving the mystery.

Step 3: Incorporate Deceptive Red Herrings

An essential component of any enthralling mystery is the use of red herrings—clues or information that mislead and distract both the investigator and the reader. Skillfully weaving red herrings into your narrative can add challenges for your main character and readers as they attempt to solve the case. However, be cautious not to overuse them, as excessive misinformation may result in confusion and frustration.

What Contributes to an Effective Clue in a Mystery?

The Importance of Clue Placement

An essential factor in developing an engaging mystery is the strategic placement of clues throughout the story. Providing key information too soon may leave your readers feeling confused, while delaying its reveal until the very end might result in frustration. To strike the perfect balance, aim to introduce crucial clues around two-thirds into the narrative. This strategy allows readers ample time to process previous events and gradually piece together the puzzle.

Subtlety: A Crucial Element

When crafting clues, it’s essential to be subtle and avoid any heavy-handedness. Overemphasizing vital information may cause readers to overlook or grow annoyed by its obviousness. Instead, sprinkle hints carefully and allow readers to make connections on their own. Trust us; they’ll appreciate the challenge and feel a sense of accomplishment when everything falls into place.

Focusing on Crucial Details

In a mystery, less is often more, especially when it comes to presenting clues. Including an excessive amount of evidence can overwhelm your readers and detract from the central storyline. Concentrate on one or two essential details that drive the narrative forward, and remember that additional information can be unveiled later if needed.

By following these guidelines, you’ll be able to craft engaging stories filled with satisfying clues and intriguing mysteries that keep your readers captivated until the final reveal. Make sure your clues are well-placed, subtle, and to-the-point to provide your audience with the gripping experience that they desire.

How to Create a Mysterious Character

Crafting a hidden past.

To establish an enigmatic character, it’s crucial to devise their hidden past. Consider the secrets they conceal, the hardships they’ve encountered, and the reasons behind their guarded nature. Developing answers to these questions will help you create a well-rounded character that intrigues your readers. As you work on their past, maintain a delicate balance—don’t disclose too much too early, but avoid making your character seem hollow. You may want to jot down potential secrets and gradually incorporate them throughout your story.

Describing Their Look

Another essential element for constructing a mysterious character lies in their physical appearance. Reflect on their appearance: do they don all black clothes and a lengthy trench coat, or do they have a more understated style? Similarly to their past, avoid revealing too much about their appearance too soon—only include essential details and leave the rest to the reader’s imagination.

Finding a Voice for Your Character

Discovering the appropriate voice for your mystery character can be challenging, as they should be hesitant to share information about themselves while avoiding being dull or flat. A helpful strategy is employing short, concise sentences for your character’s dialogue. This approach adds a sense of mystery and allows them to express themselves and engage with other characters throughout the story.

Deciding the Number of Suspects in a Mystery Novel

Choose suspects based on book length.

When determining the number of suspects in your mystery novel, consider the length of your book. A shorter book should have fewer suspects, as there’s limited space to develop multiple characters. On the other hand, a longer book can support more suspects, allowing you to explore their motivations and backstories in greater detail.

Keep Your Readers’ Abilities in Mind

It’s essential to think about your readers’ ability to track multiple characters. If your novel targets a younger audience, they might find it challenging to follow along if there are too many suspects. In this case, focus on one or two primary suspects. However, if your mystery novel appeals to adult readers, you can introduce more complexity by adding additional suspects.

What Do You Want the Story’s Resolution to Be?

Lastly, consider the type of solution you’d like for your mystery. If you want the readers to have a fair chance at guessing the solution, it’s better to limit the number of suspects. However, if you’d like to surprise your audience with an unexpected twist, more suspects can help you achieve that surprise element.

Mystery Writers to Study

As a budding mystery writer, immerse yourself in the works of Sir Arthur Conan Doyle, creator of the legendary Sherlock Holmes. Additionally, explore Chris Van Allsburg’s intriguing collection, The Mysteries of Harris Burdick. Happy reading!

Frequently Asked Questions

What are engaging mystery story themes.

You might be wondering what themes can make your mystery story more captivating. Some themes to consider include haunted places, secret societies, or even cursed objects. Drawing inspiration from a variety of sources can help create a fresh and engaging story.

How to Craft a Unique Mystery Plot?

To create a unique mystery plot, focus on developing interesting characters, unexpected twists, and a strong setting. You could also try experimenting with different narrative structures or incorporating subplots to keep readers on their toes.

What Are the Main Elements for a Mystery Romance Story?

When writing a mystery romance story , it’s important to mix elements of both genres effectively. This means crafting a suspenseful mystery while also developing a compelling romantic storyline. Add layers of intrigue, emotional connection, and conflict to create a gripping tale.

How Can I Create Intrigue for Young Readers?

To make a mystery story appealing to young readers, consider featuring relatable characters and age-appropriate themes. Keep the plot moving at a steady pace and be mindful of your target audience’s attention span. Remember to maintain a sense of fun and adventure throughout.

What Makes Exciting Mystery Suspense Ideas?

Great mystery suspense ideas can be found by combining elements of danger, tension, and unpredictability. To create an atmosphere of suspense, consider placing characters in high-stakes situations or introducing a ticking time bomb (literal or metaphorical) to keep readers engaged.

How Should I Add a Surprising Twist to a Thriller?

To add a surprising twist to your thriller story , you could include well-hidden clues, unexpected character motivations, or a shocking revelation that sheds a new light on the central mystery. The key is to keep readers guessing while staying true to the overall story and logic.

Narrative Essay Topics: TOP 200 Choices for Students

Imagine yourself facing a blank page, ready to fill it with your memories and imagination. What story will you tell today?

As students, you often have to write narratives that capture people's attention. But with so many stories to choose from, where do you start? How do you find the perfect topic that will grab our readers' interest and make them think?

Join our essay service experts as we explore 200 topics for college where stories are waiting to be told, and experiences are ready to be shared. From everyday events to unforgettable moments, each topic is a chance to connect with your readers and make them feel something.

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Ideas for Narrative Essay Topics

After exploring how students write narrative paragraphs, we've put together a list of narrative essay topics designed specifically for college and school students. This list covers a wide range of subjects, so pick one that speaks to you! If you want to see how to develop a topic into a written essay, check out our narrative essay example .

Literacy Narrative Essay Topics for College Students

How about delving into captivating literacy narrative essay topics designed specifically for college-level writing? Exciting, isn't it?

How did a childhood book shape your view of the world?
What challenges did you face when learning to read in a second language?
How has storytelling within your family influenced your literacy journey?
Can you recall a pivotal moment that ignited your love for reading?
How did a specific teacher inspire your passion for literature?
Have you ever encountered a character in a book who profoundly impacted your perspective on life?
What role did writing play in helping you navigate a difficult period in your life?
How has your relationship with technology affected your reading habits?
What cultural or historical event sparked your interest in a particular genre of literature?
How has poetry shaped your understanding of language and emotion?
Have you ever experienced a breakthrough moment in your writing process?
How has reading aloud impacted your comprehension and enjoyment of literature?
Can you recall a time when a book challenged your beliefs or worldview?
How has participating in a book club enriched your reading experience?
What strategies have you developed to overcome reading difficulties or distractions?

Personal Narrative Essay Topics on Relationships

Take a moment to reflect on your past experiences and craft compelling personal narratives with these essay ideas.

How did a specific friendship shape who you are today?
Can you recount a moment that strengthened your bond with a family member?
What challenges have you faced in maintaining a long-distance relationship?
How has a mentor influenced your personal and professional development?
Have you experienced a betrayal in a relationship? How did it impact you?
Can you describe a memorable conflict resolution process within a relationship?
How has your relationship with a pet affected your emotional well-being?
What lessons have you learned from navigating a romantic relationship?
How has your relationship with a sibling evolved over time?
Can you recall a time when you had to set boundaries in a friendship?
How has volunteering or community involvement enriched your relationships?
What cultural differences have influenced your relationships with others?
Can you share a moment when you felt truly understood by someone?
How has technology affected the dynamics of your relationships?
Have you ever experienced a reconciliation that transformed a strained relationship?

Best Narrative Essay Topics on Education and Learning

Consider the beauty of sharing your personal experiences and emotions in a captivating manner through these ideas for personal narrative essays.

What was the most valuable lesson you learned outside of the classroom?
Can you recount a moment when a teacher's unconventional method transformed your understanding of a subject?
How has a field trip or experiential learning opportunity impacted your education?
What challenges have you faced in balancing extracurricular activities with academics?
Have you ever had a "Eureka!" moment while studying? Describe it.
How has learning a new skill outside of school influenced your academic performance?
Can you recall a time when a peer's perspective challenged your own understanding of a topic?
How has technology enhanced or hindered your learning experience?
What role does creativity play in your approach to learning?
Have you ever experienced a setback that ultimately propelled you forward academically?
How has your cultural background influenced your learning style?
Can you describe a time when you had to advocate for yourself within an educational setting?
How has mentorship shaped your educational journey?
What strategies have you employed to overcome academic challenges or obstacles?
Can you reflect on a time when failure taught you a valuable lesson about learning?

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Personal Narrative Essay Ideas on Reflection on Life

Why not ignite your creativity with a range of narrative essay topics, from extraordinary moments to everyday experiences?

How has a moment of failure ultimately led to personal growth and resilience?
Can you recount a pivotal decision that significantly altered the course of your life?
What lessons have you learned from navigating a crossroads or major life transition?
How has your perspective on success evolved over time?
Can you reflect on a time when you had to confront and overcome a deeply held fear?
What role has gratitude played in shaping your outlook on life?
How have your values and beliefs been influenced by significant life experiences?
Can you describe a moment when you found clarity and purpose amidst chaos or uncertainty?
What impact has traveling to a new place had on your understanding of the world and yourself?
How has adversity strengthened your character and determination?
Can you recall a time when a random act of kindness profoundly impacted your life?
What lessons have you learned from embracing vulnerability and authenticity in relationships?
How has practicing mindfulness or self-reflection enhanced your well-being and happiness?
Can you reflect on a period of personal transformation or self-discovery?
How have you found meaning and fulfillment in pursuing your passions and interests?

Ideas for a Narrative Essay on Culture and Society

Engaging your readers with narrative essays on culture and society is a great way to spark interest, offering captivating ideas for exploration.

How has your family's unique culinary heritage influenced your cultural identity?
Can you reflect on a specific cultural artifact or heirloom that holds deep significance for your family?
What challenges have you faced in preserving traditional customs while adapting to modern societal expectations?
How has a local festival or celebration revealed the intricacies of your community's cultural tapestry?
Can you recount a moment when you navigated a cultural clash between your upbringing and the dominant culture?
How has your experience as a first-generation immigrant shaped your understanding of cultural assimilation?
What lessons have you learned from participating in intercultural exchange programs or initiatives?
Can you describe a unique cultural practice or tradition within your community that outsiders might find intriguing or misunderstood?
How has the revitalization of indigenous languages contributed to the preservation of cultural heritage in your region?
Can you reflect on a personal journey of reconnecting with your cultural roots after a period of assimilation or disconnection?
What role does storytelling play in passing down cultural wisdom and values within your family or community?
How has the portrayal of your culture in mainstream media affected your sense of belonging and self-perception?
Can you recount a moment when you challenged cultural stereotypes through creative expression or advocacy?
How has the migration of a specific cultural group enriched the social fabric and economic landscape of your community?
What initiatives or grassroots movements are currently underway to promote cross-cultural understanding and cooperation in your society?

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Narrative Writing Topics on Hobbies and Interests

Wow your readers by turning your passions and hobbies into compelling narrative essay topics that will get them thinking.

How has your passion for urban gardening transformed neglected spaces in your community?
Can you recount a thrilling adventure from your hobby of urban exploration?
What lessons have you learned from restoring vintage motorcycles in your spare time?
How has your fascination with birdwatching deepened your connection to nature and conservation efforts?
Can you describe a memorable moment from your hobby of foraging wild edibles in the wilderness?
What unique skills have you developed through your hobby of beekeeping, and how have they impacted your daily life?
How has your interest in historical reenactment brought the past to life in unexpected ways?
Can you reflect on a transformative experience from your hobby of landscape photography?
What insights have you gained from practicing the art of bonsai cultivation and nurturing miniature ecosystems?
How has your passion for stargazing inspired awe and wonder in the vastness of the universe?
Can you recount a challenging project from your hobby of woodworking and the satisfaction it brought upon completion?
What cultural connections have you discovered through your hobby of traditional folk dancing?
How has your interest in sustainable fashion influenced your consumer habits and environmental awareness?
Can you describe a moment of serenity and mindfulness experienced while practicing the art of tea ceremony?
How has your hobby of letterpress printing preserved the tactile beauty of handmade craftsmanship in a digital age?

Narrative Essay Titles on Life-Changing Moments

Life is full of unexpected twists that can lead to life-changing moments. Take a look at these narrative essay titles for stories that have had a lasting impact on your life.

How did surviving a natural disaster reshape your perspective on life?
Can you recall a single conversation that drastically altered the course of your life?
What was the pivotal moment that inspired you to pursue your dreams against all odds?
How did a chance encounter lead to a life-changing friendship or partnership?
Can you reflect on the decision that transformed your career trajectory?
What profound lesson did you learn from facing a life-threatening illness or injury?
How did traveling to a new country open your eyes to new possibilities and opportunities?
Can you recount the moment when you discovered your true passion or calling in life?
What was the turning point that allowed you to break free from a toxic relationship or environment?
How did experiencing failure or rejection ultimately lead to personal growth and resilience?
Can you describe the moment when you found the strength to overcome a deep-seated fear or insecurity?
What life-changing realization did you have while experiencing a period of solitude or introspection?
How did a profound act of kindness from a stranger restore your faith in humanity?
Can you reflect on the moment when you forgave someone who had deeply hurt you, and how it changed your perspective on forgiveness?
What pivotal decision did you make that allowed you to reclaim control over your own happiness and destiny?

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Good Narrative Topics on Travel and Adventure

Consider creating intriguing titles for your narrative essay ideas by exploring thrilling travel adventures.

Can you recount a memorable encounter with wildlife during your solo hiking adventure?
How did a spontaneous decision to explore an unfamiliar city lead to unexpected discoveries?
What lessons did you learn from navigating a foreign country with only a map and your instincts?
Can you describe the exhilaration of conquering a challenging mountain peak for the first time?
How did immersing yourself in a local culture during your travels broaden your perspective on the world?
What unexpected obstacles did you encounter while embarking on a backpacking journey through rugged terrain?
Can you reflect on the transformative experience of volunteering abroad in a community-driven project?
How did getting lost in a labyrinthine city alleyway lead to serendipitous encounters and newfound friendships?
What was the most memorable meal you had while sampling street food in a bustling market abroad?
Can you recount the adrenaline rush of participating in an extreme sports activity in a foreign land?
How did witnessing a breathtaking natural phenomenon during your travels leave a lasting impression on you?
What cultural traditions or rituals did you participate in during a homestay experience with a local family?
Can you describe the sense of wonder and awe you felt while exploring ancient ruins or historical sites?
How did navigating a language barrier challenge and ultimately enrich your travel experience?
What valuable life lessons did you learn from the mishaps and misadventures encountered during your journey off the beaten path?

Narrative Essay Topic Ideas on Career and Work Experience

College students can uncover captivating narrative essay ideas by exploring potential career paths or reminiscing about past job experiences.

How did a challenging project at work showcase your problem-solving skills and resilience?
Can you reflect on a pivotal mentorship experience that guided your career trajectory?
What valuable lessons did you learn from a career setback or failure, and how did it shape your future success?
How did a workplace conflict lead to personal growth and improved communication skills?
Can you recount a moment when taking a professional risk paid off in unexpected ways?
What insights did you gain from transitioning to a new industry or career path?
How did participating in a cross-functional team project enhance your collaboration and leadership abilities?
Can you describe the satisfaction of achieving a long-term career goal after years of hard work and perseverance?
What impact did a meaningful recognition or award have on your motivation and sense of accomplishment?
How did volunteering or pro bono work contribute to your professional development and sense of purpose?
Can you reflect on the decision to leave a stable job in pursuit of passion or fulfillment?
What strategies did you employ to navigate a toxic work environment and maintain your well-being?
How did a career setback lead to unexpected opportunities for personal and professional growth?
Can you describe a moment when mentorship or sponsorship played a crucial role in advancing your career?
What lessons did you learn from a challenging client or customer interaction, and how did it shape your approach to customer service and relationship-building?

Interesting Narrative Essay Topics about Challenges and Obstacles

If you're not sure what to write about for your narrative essay, think back to the tough times you've had and how you managed to get through them.

How did you conquer a once-paralyzing fear to chase your dreams?
What new strengths did you discover while adapting to a physical challenge?
Can you recall a creative solution you used during a tough financial period?
When did you bravely stand against injustice, despite opposition?
How did overcoming a language barrier broaden your horizons?
What key lessons did you learn from a major setback in your life?
How did you manage overwhelming stress and responsibilities?
What inner reserves of resilience did you draw upon after personal loss?
Describe a time when you defied societal norms to pursue your goals.
Reflect on a moment when failure fueled your determination for success.
When did you find the courage to leave your comfort zone behind?
How did community support bolster you through a challenging time?
Share a time when self-doubt led to newfound confidence.
Can you recount a tragedy that spurred your personal growth?
What insights did overcoming a monumental obstacle reveal about life?

Best Narrative Essay Topics: How to Choose the One That Resonates

A narrative essay is a type of writing that tells a personal story, including characters, plot, setting, and the order of events. Its main goal is to connect with readers emotionally and share a specific message or insight through the retelling of a meaningful experience.

Students write narrative essays as part of their studies for several reasons. Firstly, it allows them to express themselves creatively by sharing their unique experiences, thoughts, and feelings. Secondly, it helps them develop important writing skills like organizing ideas and thoughts effectively.

Choosing good narrative essay ideas involves looking at personal experiences, interests, and the potential for engaging storytelling. Here's a simple guide to help you pick the right topic:

Think about significant moments in your life that had a lasting impact, such as personal growth or overcoming challenges.
Choose topics related to your hobbies, interests, or areas of expertise to make your story more engaging.
Consider what your audience would be interested in and choose topics that resonate with them.
Focus on a specific event or detail to make your narrative more focused and impactful.
Look for universal themes like love or personal transformation that connect with readers on a deeper level.
Brainstorm ideas and write freely to uncover compelling topics.
Decide on storytelling techniques like flashbacks or foreshadowing and choose a topic that fits.
Get feedback from friends, peers, or instructors to see if your topics are interesting and impactful.
Choose topics that evoke strong emotions for a more compelling narrative.
Select a topic that you personally connect with to make your story authentic.

Once you've chosen a topic, brainstorm ideas and create an outline for your essay. Follow your professor's instructions carefully and consider seeking help from our narrative essay writing service if needed.

Bring your stories to life with EssayPro. Select from a vast array of narrative essay topics and let our professionals help you weave your tales into captivating essays. Whether it's adventure, reflection, or imagination, we're here to assist.

Final Remarks

As we wrap up, our list of 200 narrative essay topics is here to fuel your creativity for your next writing project! Whether you're sharing a memorable event, reliving a childhood memory, or expressing a profound insight, crafting a narrative essay can be an uplifting experience that resonates deeply with readers.

And if you're gearing up for college admissions, why not check out our admission essay writing service ? We've already assisted countless students in securing their spots at their dream colleges, and we'd love to help you, too!

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Daniel Parker

is a seasoned educational writer focusing on scholarship guidance, research papers, and various forms of academic essays including reflective and narrative essays. His expertise also extends to detailed case studies. A scholar with a background in English Literature and Education, Daniel’s work on EssayPro blog aims to support students in achieving academic excellence and securing scholarships. His hobbies include reading classic literature and participating in academic forums.

is an expert in nursing and healthcare, with a strong background in history, law, and literature. Holding advanced degrees in nursing and public health, his analytical approach and comprehensive knowledge help students navigate complex topics. On EssayPro blog, Adam provides insightful articles on everything from historical analysis to the intricacies of healthcare policies. In his downtime, he enjoys historical documentaries and volunteering at local clinics.

780 Good Narrative Essay Topics: Prompts & Ideas

Icon Calendar 18 May 2024
Icon Page 8575 words
Icon Clock 38 min read

An individual who passes through the American education system must write at least one narrative essay. In this case, the construction of a narrative essay topic is crucial to the successful completion of a narrative essay assignment. Basically, this guide on narrative essay topics begins with many examples, prompts, lists, ideas, and themes, while a definition of this type of work indicates its value in learning. Further on, the manual discusses the two types of narrative essays: fiction and nonfiction. Finally, the guide discusses the process of forming a topic for a narrative essay. In turn, the manual includes a template that students may use to create topics and provides numerous examples of narrative themes across various disciplines.

Best Narrative Essay Topics

Delving Into the Enigma of Alternate Universes: A Hypothetical Journey
Surviving the Harsh Realm of the Alaskan Wilderness
Encountering the Extraterrestrial: An Unexpected Friendship
Harnessing the Power of the Mind: Inventing a Life-Changing Device
Unraveling the Dark Secrets of the Louvre Museum
Whispers From the Past: Discovering an Ancestor’s Hidden Diary
Miracle on Main Street: A Small Town’s Unforgettable Christmas
Overcoming Gravity: A Personal Account of the First Mars Settlement
Portals to the Past: A Reality Touched by Time Travel
Shadows of a Ghost Town: Unearthing the Forgotten Stories
The Glittering Glamour of the Roaring Twenties: A Flapper’s Tale
Trapped in a Haunted Castle: The Search for Freedom
Empathy Through Connection: Experiencing Life as a Dolphin
Unleashing Creativity: Transforming a City With Street Art
Sail Through the Mysteries: Secrets of the Bermuda Triangle
Adventure in the Amazon: A Quest for the Lost Tribes
Revealing the Truth: Undercover in North Korea
Conquering Everest: The Hidden Challenges of Mountain Climbing
Seeking Atlantis: The Exploration of a Mythical Underwater City
Redemption in the Rubble: A Story of Resilience After Disaster
Dawn of the Cyborgs: Living in a Technologically Advanced Future

Easy Narrative Essay Topics

A Walk on the Wild Side: Life Among Wolves
Unlocking the Past: Unearthed Mysteries of the Pyramids
The Dance of Dragons: Coexisting With Mythical Creatures
Braving the Apocalypse: Survival in a Post-nuclear World
Life’s Canvas: The Power of Tattoos and Their Stories
Lessons from a Panda: Struggles and Triumphs of Wildlife Conservation
Prophecies Fulfilled: Living in a Predicted Future
Defying Expectations: A Modern-Day Nomad’s Tale
Living With the Tribe: Survival Skills From the Amazon Rainforest
Waltz With the Whales: A Tale of Ocean Exploration
The Taste of Memory: Recreating My Grandmother’s Secret Recipes
Light Show Extravaganza: Organizing the City’s First Drone Display
Blossom in the Desert: Establishing a Sustainable Oasis
The Shapeshifter’s Quandary: Understanding Identity in a Fluid Form
Brush With Death: Life-Changing Experience in a War Zone
Voyage to the Core: A Subterranean Adventure
City of Ghosts: A Journey Through Chornobyl’s Exclusion Zone
Lost in the Labyrinth: Escaping the World’s Most Intricate Maze
Immortality’s Lure: The Ethical Dilemma of Life Extension
Frozen in Time: Unveiling the Secrets of Cryonics
Feast of the Gods: Cooking in Olympus
Celestial Harmonies: Communicating With Extraterrestrial Civilizations Through Music
Breaking Barriers: The Untold Story of an Underdog Athlete
Navigating Neptunian Seas: Life on an Alien Water World

Interesting Narrative Essay Topics

Echoes From the Abyss: Unearthing the Titanic’s Forgotten Stories
Flames of Phoenix: Rising From Personal Tragedies
Whispering Willows: Conversing With Nature in a Magical Forest
When Robots Rule: A Glimpse Into a Fully Automated Society
Shadows in the Spotlight: Dealing With Fame and Loneliness
Mysteries of the Deep: A Close Encounter With the Giant Squid
Becoming the Beast: Life Lessons From a Werewolf
Cosmic Roulette: The Risk and Reward of Asteroid Mining
Heroes in Hiding: Unmasking the Real Lives of Superheroes
Reality’s Mirage: Experiencing Life Inside a Virtual World
Conversations With the Cosmos: Interstellar Messages and Their Meanings
Taming Tempests: A Day in the Life of a Storm Chaser
Spellbound: The Realities of Modern-Day Witchcraft
In the Heart of the Jungle: The Rediscovery of a Lost City
Bonds Beyond Species: A Tale of an Unlikely Animal Friendship
Transformation in the Wilderness: A Solo Trek Across the Sahara
Threads of Time: Unraveling the Mystery of the Universe’s Creation
Clash of Giants: Living Among the Dinosaurs
Among the Stars: Life Aboard the International Space Station
Music of the Mind: A Journey Into the World of Synesthesia
Inside the Hive: An Intimate Look at the Lives of Bees
Hidden Depths: A Submarine Adventure in the Mariana Trench
Chasing the Aurora: A Personal Encounter With the Northern Lights
The Silent Symphony: Life Lessons From a Deaf Musician
Wonders of the Wilderness: The True Beauty of the Arctic Tundra
Resurrecting the Past: Experiences With Jurassic Technology
Tale of a Stowaway: An Unplanned Space Adventure
Living With Ghosts: My Paranormal Family
Behind the Mask: A Journey Into the World of Cosplay

Creative Narrative Essay Topics

Leap of Faith: Surviving the World’s Highest Bungee Jump
The Serpent’s Embrace: Understanding the World of Snakes
Hall of Mirrors: A Mind-Bending Trip Through a Carnival Funhouse
Mind Over Matter: Conquering Fear Through Extreme Sports
Transcending Boundaries: Life in the International Space Colony
Reclaiming Paradise: Reviving a Deserted Island
Goliath of the Deep: Facing Off With the Legendary Kraken
The Other Side: A Tale From a Parallel Universe
Beneath the City Streets: Exploring the Hidden Tunnels of Paris
Behind the Wheel: Experiencing Life as a Taxi Driver
The Living Museum: Coexisting With Anachronistic Artifacts
Colors of the Wind: An Artist’s Quest to Capture the Essence of Nature
Awakening the Ancient: Bringing a Mummy Back to Life
The Language of Love: Communicating Without Words
Serenade of the Nightingale: Composing Music From Nature’s Sounds
Alien Homecoming: A Human’s Adaptation to Life on Another Planet
Twists and Turns: My Journey Through the World’s Longest Maze
Dreamscape Odyssey: Adventures in Lucid Dreaming
Dancing With the Dead: My Experience at the Day of the Dead Festival
The Hidden Kingdom: Uncovering the World Beneath the Antarctic Ice
Quantum Quandaries: Life in a Superposition
Through the Eyes of a Hawk: Experiencing Life as a Bird of Prey
Symbiosis: Living Harmoniously With Bioluminescent Organisms
A Tale of Two Time Zones: Living on the Border of a Temporal Divide
The Last Polar Bear: Struggling for Survival in a Melting World

Narrative Essay Topics for High School Students

Embracing the Challenge: My Journey to the National Spelling Bee
A Kaleidoscope of Emotions: The First Day at a New School
Lifelong Memories From My High School Theater Production
Discovering Myself Through Volunteer Work in the Local Community
Battling Against Odds: Winning the Championship in a Team Sport
Learning Compassion: Caring for an Elderly Relative
The Summer I Mastered My Grandmother’s Secret Recipe
Triumph and Tragedy: The Rollercoaster Ride of Teenage Relationships
Meeting My Hero: The Day I Came Face-to-Face With My Idol
Risk and Reward: My Experience With Starting a Small Business
Breaking Stereotypes: My Passion for Ballet in a Football-Oriented Town
Mastering Courage: My First Public Speaking Experience
Fostering Friendship: Forming Bonds in Unexpected Places
Personal Growth Through Foreign Language Learning
From Novice to Pro: My Journey in Digital Art Creation
Bridging Cultures: Hosting an Exchange Student at Our Home
Influence and Inspiration: A Teacher Who Shaped My Life
Harnessing the Power of Nature: My Summer on an Organic Farm
Overcoming Fear: My First Solo Travel Experience
Reigniting Passion: Rediscovering Lost Interests in High School

Narrative Essay Topics for Middle School

Learning From Failure: The Value of Perseverance
Self-Expression through Style: How Fashion Shapes My Identity
Unveiling the Past: My Exploration of Family History
The Transformation: Becoming a Responsible Senior Student
Dedication and Discipline: My Journey in Martial Arts
Impact of Literature: How a Single Book Changed My Perspective
Harnessing Leadership: My Time as Student Body President
Confronting Loss: Dealing With Grief During High School Years
Nurturing Creativity: My Experience With a Middle School Band
The Influence of a Foreign Film on My Worldview
Breaking Barriers: Being the First in My Family to Apply for College
Shaping My Future: The Role of Internship Experience in High School
Grit and Grace: Balancing Academics and Extracurricular Activities
Driving Change: Organizing a Schoolwide Recycling Initiative
Journey into Space: My Fascination With Astronomy
Dealing With Uncertainty: The Life of a Military Kid
The Power of Empathy: My Experience With Peer Counseling
Embracing My Roots: Exploring My Ethnic Heritage
Learning Resilience: My Journey of Recovering From a Serious Injury

Narrative Essay Topics for College Students

Overcoming Personal Adversity: A Journey of Self-Discovery
My Most Inspirational Mentor: Impact on My Life and Aspirations
Embracing Cultural Diversity: Experiences From Study Abroad
The Day I Challenged Authority: Lessons Learned
Navigating Through My First Year in University: Triumphs and Trials
Volunteering Abroad: A Life-Changing Experience
A Family Tradition: Its Influence and Significance
Friendship Amid Differences: Building Strong Bonds
Sailing the Entrepreneurial Sea: Launching My First Start-Up
Wilderness Exploration: Lessons From a Solo Camping Trip
Surviving a Natural Disaster: An Unforgettable Experience
Facing the Fear: Overcoming Public Speaking Anxiety
Intertwining of Art and Life: Finding Personal Expression in Music
Discovering Feminism: Impact on Personal Beliefs and Actions
Triumph Over Health Issues: My Journey to Recovery
Balancing Academics and Athletics: A Student Athlete’s Tale
Delving Into Politics: Participating in Student Government
Engaging in Sustainable Practices: Initiating a Green Movement on Campus
Broadening Perspectives: A Dive into Philosophy
Creating Bonds: The Power of Shared Laughter

Narrative Essay Topics for University

Stepping Out of My Comfort Zone: First Solo Travel Experience
Staying Grounded: Lessons From My Hometown
Harnessing the Power of Technology: My Contribution to a Tech Project
Investigating Environmental Issues: A Personal Quest
Confronting Discrimination: A Struggle for Equality
Reinventing Myself: The Power of Personal Transformation
Securing My First Internship: A Stepping Stone Toward My Career
Crafting a Novel: Pursuing My Passion for Writing
Pursuit of Knowledge: An Insight Into Scientific Research
Marching for Justice: Participation in a Social Activism Movement
Realizing the Importance of Mental Health: A Personal Encounter
Finding Solace in Nature: The Influence of Outdoor Activities
Unearthing Family History: The Journey of Genealogical Discovery
A Journey of Faith: Exploring Spirituality in College
Learning From Failure: A Crucial College Experience
Maintaining Long-Distance Relationships: Challenges and Successes
Transition to Adulthood: Understanding Responsibilities and Independence
Breaking Stereotypes: The Power of Individuality
Adapting to City Life: A Rural Student in an Urban University

Fun Narrative Essay Topics

Exploring the Enchanted Forest: A Journey of Wonders
The Day I Became the World’s Best Cupcake Baker
Navigating Through Time: A Hilarious Encounter with Dinosaurs
My Unexpected Friendship With a Talking Squirrel
Winning the Lottery: The Adventures of a New Millionaire
Starstruck! My Surprising Dinner With a Celebrity
Life’s Upside Down: The Day Gravity Reversed
Dancing With Penguins: A Polar Expedition Turned Party
When My Dog Decided to Become a Detective
Landing on Mars: An Extraterrestrial Misadventure
Running the World’s Most Unusual Ice Cream Shop
Adventures of a Backpack: Discovering the World From a Unique Perspective
Befriending a Ghost: The Hauntingly Hilarious Tale
From Zero to Hero: The Misadventures of an Accidental Superhero
Behind the Scenes: My Wild Day as a Movie Director
The Great Food Fight: Battle of the Culinary Clans
Stumbling upon Atlantis: The Underwater Uproar
House-Sitting for Bigfoot: When Myth Meets Reality

Personal Narrative Essay Topics

Encounter With an Endangered Species During a Safari Trip
Performing on Stage for the First Time: My Experience
Climbing Mount Everest: An Unforgettable Journey
The Moment I Learned to Ride a Bicycle
Reconnecting With a Long-Lost Friend: A Heartwarming Tale
Building My First Treehouse: Childhood Adventures
Moving to a New Country: My Experience as a Newcomer
Attending the Olympic Games: A First-Hand Perspective
Facing My Fear of Public Speaking
Surviving a Natural Disaster: The Hurricane Experience
Volunteering in a Developing Country: Personal Insights
Taking a Gap Year: Discovering Myself and the World
Immersing in a Foreign Culture: Living in Japan
Sailing Across the Atlantic: A Journey of Courage
Embracing Veganism: Personal Shifts and Challenges
Fostering a Rescue Dog: A Rewarding Journey
Teaching English in a Rural School: My Fulfilling Experience
Meeting My Role Model: An Unexpected Encounter
Backpacking Through Europe: Lessons Learned

Personal Experience Narrative Essay Topics

Conquering My Fear of Heights by Skydiving
Navigating My First Job: The Professional World
Witnessing a Solar Eclipse: An Astral Phenomenon
Finishing a Marathon: A Test of Perseverance
Overcoming Illness: My Triumph Over Cancer
Participating in a Protest: Standing for What’s Right
Learning a New Language: My Spanish Experience
Experiencing Snowfall for the First Time
Camping in the Wilderness: A Survival Story
Rescuing an Injured Bird: Lessons in Compassion
Exploring the Amazon Rainforest: An Eco-adventure
Witnessing a Historical Event: The Presidential Inauguration
Embracing Meditation: My Journey to Inner Peace
Surviving a Car Accident: A Life-Changing Moment
Competing in a Chess Tournament: Strategy and Endurance
Confronting a Bully: My Battle for Self-Respect
Discovering My Passion for Painting: Art as Therapy
Helping the Homeless: Insights From Community Service
Adapting to Parenthood: My First Year as a Dad
Thriving in College: Overcoming Freshman Fears
Leading a Team: My Experience as a Captain
Planting My First Garden: Cultivating Patience and Growth
Mastering Martial Arts: A Journey of Discipline

Experience Narrative Essay Topics

Experiencing an Earthquake: A Tale of Survival
Living Without Technology: A Week-Long Experiment
Visiting the Great Pyramids: A Walk Through History
Participating in a Culinary Competition: Cooking Under Pressure
Learning to Drive a Stick Shift: An Exercise in Coordination
Running a Small Business: Lessons in Resilience
Flying a Plane for the First Time: A Sky-High Adventure
Observing a Lunar Eclipse: A Starry Night Experience
Embracing Fitness: My Transformation Through Exercise
Navigating a Divorce: A Personal Journey of Resilience
Working on a Farm: Connecting With Nature
Trekking to Machu Picchu: An Andean Adventure
Celebrating a Traditional Festival in a Foreign Land
Writing My First Book: Embracing the World of Literature
Going on a Silent Retreat: A Quest for Mindfulness
Journeying Through the Sahara: A Desert Adventure
Preparing for a TED Talk: Behind the Scenes
Surviving a Shipwreck: An Oceanic Ordeal
Participating in a Dance Competition: Rhythm and Grace
Living With a Disability: Embracing My Uniqueness
Learning Sign Language: A New Way to Communicate

Narrative Essay Topics About Childhood

Discovering the Wonders of Nature During My Childhood Camping Trips
Forming Lifelong Friendships: A Tale of Childhood Bonds
The Extraordinary Adventures of My Childhood Pets
How Our Family Vacations Shaped My Worldview
The Significant Impact of My First School Experience
Unveiling the Magic of Fairy Tales: Lessons From Childhood Stories
Navigating the Rollercoaster: The Highs and Lows of Childhood Sports
Celebrations That Left a Mark: A Look at Childhood Birthdays
The Role of Video Games in Crafting My Childhood Reality
Anecdotes from the Playground: The Joy of Childhood Games
The Beauty of Innocence: Exploring the Art I Created as a Child
Recalling My Childhood Curiosity: The Pursuit of Learning New Things
The Importance of Family Traditions in My Childhood Home
Lessons Learned From Childhood Mistakes and Misadventures
Transformation of My Childhood Room: A Space of Growth and Dreams
How My Neighborhood Influenced My Childhood Adventures
The Power of Music: Reflecting on My Childhood Piano Lessons

Relationship Narrative Essay Topics

Exploring the Complexity of Long-Distance Relationships
Maintaining a Healthy Relationship While Pursuing Professional Goals
The Transformative Power of Friendship in College Years
Navigating Intergenerational Conflicts Within Families
Overcoming Breakups: A Journey Toward Self-Discovery
Romantic Love: Unraveling Its Role in Personal Development
Experiencing Parenthood: A Changing Dynamic in Marriage
Communication Breakdown: Unraveling Its Impact on Relationships
Adolescent Friendship: Influences on Personality Formation
The Perennial Bond: Siblings and Shared Childhood
Journey Through Grief: The Healing Power of Relationships
Cyber Relationships: An Analysis of Modern Love and Friendship
Exploring the Influence of Cultural Differences on Relationships
Cohabitation Before Marriage: A Modern Relationship Narrative
Adapting to the Empty Nest: Transition of Parent-Child Relationships
Blended Families: Merging Lives and Cultures
Mentorship: The Unsung Relationship in Personal Growth
Interpersonal Relationships at Work: Navigating Professional Friendships and Rivalries

Narrative Essay Topics About Friendship

Unveiling the Mystery: My First Experience With True Friendship
Moments of Laughter: Recounting the Funniest Incidents Shared With Friends
Treasured Bonds: The Significant Role Friendship Plays in Personal Growth
Enduring Distance: Maintaining Long-Distance Friendships in the Digital Age
Reconciliation Stories: Overcoming Disputes and Strengthening Friendship
Childhood Companions: Navigating Life With My Oldest Friends
Shared Passions: How Common Interests Fostered Unlikely Friendships
Friendship Transcends Borders: Experiencing International Companionship
Lessons Learned: Understanding Life Through My Friends’ Eyes
Support Systems: Relating Personal Experiences of Friends in Times of Crisis
Evolution of Friendship: How My Companionships Have Morphed Over Time
The Power of Apology: Mending Broken Friendships
Valuing Diversity: Celebrating Differences Within My Friend Group
Friends at Work: Balancing Professionalism and Friendship in the Workplace
Pets as Friends: The Unconditional Love From Our Furry Companions
Serendipitous Meetings: Narrating Unexpected Friendships Formed in Unique Circumstances
Friendships in the Cyber World: The Impact of Social Media on Interpersonal Relationships

Narrative Essay Topics & Ideas on Traveling and Holidays

Embracing the Unknown: The Impact of My First Solo Trip
New York City’s Hidden Treasures: Uncovering the Less-Trodden Paths
Bali’s Magic: A Journey Through the Island of the Gods
Navigating Cultural Differences: My Holiday in Japan
Chasing Northern Lights: A Memorable Trip to Iceland
Lessons Learned From Hiking the Camino de Santiago
Bonding Over Baguettes: Culinary Adventures in Paris
Exploring My Heritage: A Sentimental Journey to the Homeland
The Great Barrier Reef: An Underwater Paradise Journey
Discovering Serenity: The Peaceful Retreat to the Swiss Alps
Sailing the Caribbean: My Life-Changing Cruise Adventure
African Safari: A Brush With the Wild Side of Nature
Lost and Found in Venice: A Story of Self-Discovery
Christmas in New Zealand: Celebrating Holidays in Summer
Epic Road Trip: An Adventurous Drive Across the United States
Enduring the Amazon Rainforest: A Challenge Like No Other
From Skyscrapers to Temples: The Contrasts of Hong Kong
Cultural Immersion: My Authentic Experience in Rural India
Stranded in Rome: The Unforgettable Holiday of Mishaps

Narrative Argument Essay Topics

Implications of Virtual Reality: A Step Toward Progress or Social Isolation?
Comparing Digital Learning and Traditional Classroom Education: Which Provides a Better Foundation for Students?
Exploration of Space: An Essential Venture or Unnecessary Expense?
Impacts of Social Media on Society: Encouraging Connectivity or Propagating Narcissism?
Animal Rights: The Moral Dilemma of Consuming Animal Products.
Evaluating the Significance of Art Education: An Extravagance or Necessity?
Balancing Work and Personal Life: Is a Four-Day Workweek a Solution?
The Role of Feminism in Today’s Society: Promoting Equality or Causing Division?
Rising Trend of Veganism: An Ethical Stand or a Health Choice?
Surveillance Technologies and Privacy: Security Measure or Breach of Freedom?
The Influence of Music Genres on Youth: Creative Expression or Potential Harm?
Exploring the Impact of Violent Video Games: Entertainment or Aggression Catalyst?
The Dangers of Genetically Modified Organisms: Technological Breakthrough or Threat to Nature?
The Shift to Renewable Energy: Solution to Climate Change or Technological Challenge?
Probing the Influence of Celebrity Culture on Self-Esteem: Aspiration or Alienation?
Universal Basic Income: An Effective Poverty Alleviation Method or Financial Catastrophe?
Racial Profiling in Law Enforcement: Necessary Precaution or Violation of Civil Rights?
Understanding the Impact of Advertising on Children: Harmless Promotion or Exploitative Practice?

Narrative Essay Topics & Ideas on Childhood Memories

The Fascinating World of Backyard Adventures: Finding Wonders in Small Spaces
Unwrapping the Mystery: The Story of My Favorite Childhood Toy
Crafting Innocence: The Childhood Art Project That Changed My Perspective
Celebrations in Perspective: The Most Memorable Childhood Birthday Party
Bittersweet Departure: Leaving My Childhood Home for the First Time
Champions of the Neighborhood: Recollections from Childhood Sports Competitions
Unearthing Treasures: The Joy of Childhood Collectibles and Keepsakes
Echoes of Laughter: Reminiscing About Summertime Fun at the Local Park
Whispers in the Library: My Childhood Journey into the World of Books
Seasons of Innocence: Reflecting on Childhood Summers Spent With Grandparents
Tastes of the Past: Reliving My First Cooking Experience as a Child
Notes from the Heart: The Childhood Music Lesson That Shaped My Life
Drawing Dreams: The Impact of Childhood Cartoons on My Imagination
Discovering Friendship: A Chronicle of My First Best Friend in Childhood
Lessons Learned: The School Field Trip That Broadened My Horizons
Nostalgic Tunes: The Role of Childhood Music in Shaping My Identity
Pet Companions: The Story of My First Pet and Our Shared Adventures
Magical Moments: Revisiting My Childhood Fascination With the Night Sky

Narrative Essay Topics & Ideas on School Years

Triumph and Tears: Overcoming My Fear of Public Speaking
Discovering My Passion: The Influence of My High School Art Class
Break Time Bonds: Friendships Formed on the School Playground
Challenge Conquered: Mastering Mathematics After Years of Struggle
Navigating High School: Balancing Academics and Athletics
Illuminating Knowledge: The Impact of My Favorite Science Teacher
Unforeseen Triumph: Winning the School Spelling Bee
Learning Leadership: My Journey as a School Prefect
Bittersweet Goodbye: Graduating and Leaving Behind My Beloved High School
Blossoming Creativity: My Experiences in School Drama Club
Unmasking Potential: The Role of School Counseling in My Life
A New Beginning: Adjusting to Life in a Boarding School
Embracing Diversity: Lessons From an International School Experience
Fumbling Through Failure: The Importance of Learning From Mistakes in School
School Excursions: The Unforgettable Trip to the Local Museum
Shaping Identity: My Transformation During High School Years
Fostering Teamwork: My Experiences in School Sports Teams

Narrative Essay Topics & Ideas on Morality

Understanding the Concept of Altruism: The Impact on Personal Morality
A Personal Journey Through Moral Dilemmas: An Introspective Analysis
The Interplay of Morality and Justice: Reflections From Personal Experiences
Lessons Learned From the Holocaust: A Study on Extreme Moral Failures
The Ethics of Capital Punishment: A Personal Narrative on Its Morality
Cyber Ethics: Morality in the Digital Age Explored Through Personal Experiences
Religion’s Influence on Personal Morality: A Detailed Analysis
Addressing the Morality of Wealth Inequality: Personal Encounters and Reflections
Personal Experience With Moral Ambiguity in Business Practices
Animals’ Rights: A Narrative on the Moral Implications of Animal Cruelty
Adoption and the Moral Questions It Raises: A Personal Perspective
Ethical Considerations in Healthcare: My Experiences With Morality in Medicine
The Role of Education in Moral Development: Reflections From My Schooling Years
Caring for the Environment: My Personal Journey to Understanding Eco-Morality
Personal Struggles With the Morality of War: An Inside Perspective
A Narrative on the Ethics of Censorship: When Is It Morally Justifiable?
Racial Discrimination: The Moral Lessons Learned From Personal Experiences
Lessons From a Moral Crisis: The Personal Impact of Political Corruption
Delving Into the Morality of Abortion: Personal Encounters and Ethical Dilemmas

Narrative Essay Topics & Ideas on Student Life

Discovering Myself: The Importance of Self-Reflection in College
Overcoming Academic Challenges: The Impact of Perseverance on Success
A Journey through Campus: Unveiling the Hidden Wonders of University Life
Societies in Focus: My Experience in Student Organizations
Balancing Act: Juggling Academics and Extracurricular Activities
Embracing Diversity: The Lessons I Learned From International Friends
Transformative Power of Internships: Gaining Real-World Experience
Nightly Debates: The Influence of Late-Night Study Sessions on My Understanding
Surviving Exam Week: Stress, Struggles, and Strategies
Meeting Mentors: Professors Who Made a Lasting Impact
Roommates Revealed: The Dynamics of Living with Others
Homesickness Healed: How I Adjusted to a New Environment
Exploring Entrepreneurship: My Journey of Creating a Campus Start-Up
Dormitory Diaries: Life Lessons Learned in Shared Spaces
Navigating Freshman Year: The Ups and Downs of Transition
Unforgettable Field Trips: How Travel Expanded My Learning
Leadership Lessons: My Role in Student Government
Volunteer Ventures: The Rewarding Experience of Giving Back
Tackling Textbooks: Strategies for Effective Study Habits

Video Game Narrative Essay Topics & Ideas

Unraveling the Complex Narrative Structure of “The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt”
Dystopian Themes Portrayed in “Bioshock Infinite”
Psychological Manipulation and Player Autonomy in “Spec Ops: The Line”
Role of History and Mythology in “Assassin’s Creed: Odyssey” Plot Development
Examination of Socio-Political Commentary in “Deus Ex: Human Revolution”
Metanarrative Elements and Breaking the Fourth Wall in “Metal Gear Solid”
Character Development and Identity Formation in “Mass Effect Trilogy”
Analyzing the Depiction of Ethical Dilemmas in “The Last of Us Part II”
Undertale: The Power of Choice and Its Influence on Narrative
Fallout Series: Exploration of Post-Apocalyptic Survival Narratives
Examining Storytelling Through Environmental Details in “Dark Souls”
Red Dead Redemption 2: Realism, Redemption, and Narrative Complexity
Silent Hill 2: Symbolism and Psychological Horror in Video Game Narratives
Halo Series: The Evolution of Heroic Archetypes in Sci-Fi Narratives
Portal 2: Narrative as a Tool for Puzzling and Humor
Firewatch: An Examination of Isolation and Personal Growth in Narratives
Journey: The Art of Non-Verbal Storytelling in Video Games
Bioshock: An Analysis of Libertarian Themes Within a Video Game Narrative

Unique Lists of 259 Narrative Essay Topics for Different Subjects, Courses, and Classes

Culture narrative essay topics & ideas.

Exploring the Impact of Globalization on Indigenous Cultures
Unraveling the Role of Language in Shaping Cultural Identity
The Effect of Pop Culture on Teenager’s Self-Expression
Tracing the Evolution of American Music: Jazz to Hip-Hop
The Influence of Social Media on Contemporary Fashion Trends
Analyzing the Importance of Street Art in Urban Cultures
Deconstructing the Impact of Cuisine on National Identity
Understanding the Role of Festivals in Preserving Cultural Traditions
Exploring the Influence of Bollywood on Indian Culture
Comparing Japanese Anime and Western Animation: Cultural Perspectives
Tracing the Origins of Samba: Brazilian Culture Unveiled
Examining the Cultural Significance of Storytelling in African Tribes
Understanding the Interplay Between Culture and Architecture in Ancient Rome
The Influence of Technology on Modern Art Forms: A Cultural Perspective
The Role of Women in Middle Eastern Literature
Examining the Impact of Migration on Cultural Diversity in New York City
Analyzing the Influence of French Cinema on Global Film Culture
Dissecting the Cultural Roots of Flamenco in Spanish Society
Evaluating the Role of Sports in Building National Identity: Case of Soccer in Europe
The Influence of Greek Mythology on Western Literature and Culture

Narrative Essay Topics & Ideas on Sports

Achieving Personal Growth Through Marathon Running
Conquering Inner Demons: A Tale of Extreme Mountaineering
Triumph Over Adversity: My Experience With Wheelchair Basketball
Team Dynamics and Leadership Lessons Learned From Soccer
Life’s Parallels Drawn from the Chessboard: A Personal Narrative
Discovering Myself Through the Physical and Mental Demands of Gymnastics
The Role of Swimming in Building Perseverance and Discipline
Embracing Martial Arts: A Journey of Self-Discovery and Respect
Grappling With Life: Lessons Learned From Wrestling
Surfing Waves and Emotions: How Surfing Transformed My Perspective
Football Under Friday Night Lights: Community, Camaraderie, and Competition
Grace Under Pressure: My Ballet Journey and Its Impact on My Life
The Pinnacle of Excitement: My First Skydiving Experience
Uniting Cultures Through the Power of Cricket: An Immigrant’s Story
The Healing Power of Yoga: A Personal Journey to Inner Peace
Molding Character on the Golf Course: Patience and Precision in Practice
Reflections on Rowing: Teamwork, Endurance, and Personal Growth
How the Discipline of CrossFit Training Translates Into Everyday Life
Chasing Personal Bests: The Thrills and Spills of Track and Field Events

Arts Narrative Essay Topics & Ideas

The Evolution of Abstract Expressionism: A Journey Through Colors and Emotions
Capturing Life’s Rhythms: Exploring the World of Dance in Art
The Renaissance Revival: How Classical Themes Shaped Art in the Modern Era
The Power of Perspective: Exploring the Illusion of Depth in Paintings
Unveiling the Secrets: Decoding Symbolism in Renaissance Art
From Brushstrokes to Pixels: The Digital Age of Art and Its Impact
Rediscovering Forgotten Masters: Unearthing Hidden Gems in Art History
The Art of Storytelling: Narrative Paintings and Their Impact on Viewers
Exploring the Sublime: Depicting Nature’s Majesty in Landscape Art
The Human Form as a Canvas: Body Art and Its Cultural Significance
Embracing Diversity: Celebrating Different Artistic Movements Around the World
Beyond the Frame: Sculpture as an Interactive Art Form
The Delicate Dance: Exploring the Intersection of Music and Visual Art
Artistic Rebellion: Challenging the Norms Through Avant-garde Movements
Unveiling the Muses: Inspiring Forces Behind Famous Artworks
The Art of War: Depicting Conflict and its Consequences through Art
Art as Activism: Addressing Social and Political Issues Through Visual Mediums

History Narrative Essay Topics & Ideas

Renaissance: Flourishing Era of Art, Science, and Exploration
American Revolution: Defying Colonial Rule for Independence
French Revolution: Liberty, Equality, and Reign of Terror
Industrial Revolution: Transforming Society Through Innovation and Machinery
Age of Enlightenment: Intellectual Awakening and Philosophical Ideals
Civil Rights Movement: Struggles for Equality and Racial Justice
Mongol Empire: Conquest, Expansion, and Cultural Exchange
Holocaust: Dark Chapter in Human History
Cold War: Superpower Rivalry and Nuclear Threat
Spanish Inquisition: Religious Persecution and Fear
Age of Exploration: New Worlds and Global Encounters
Black Death: Devastation and End of Middle Ages
British Empire: Expansion, Imperialism, and Legacy
Scientific Revolution: Advancements in Knowledge and Birth of Modern Science
Trail of Tears: Forced Relocation of Native Americans
Opium Wars: Imperialism and Clash of Cultures
World War I: Global Conflict and Birth of Modern Warfare
Italian Renaissance: Artistic Revival and Cultural Brilliance
Great Depression: Economic Collapse and Social Struggles
Russian Revolution: Overthrowing Tsarist Regime
African Slave Trade: Exploitation and Human Tragedy

Narrative Essay Topics About Language & Literature

Unveiling the Enigmatic World of Linguistic Devices in Poetry
The Evolution of Language: A Historical Analysis of Literature
Captivating Characters: An In-Depth Study of Literary Protagonists
The Art of Storytelling: Narrative Techniques in Literature
Literary Themes: A Journey Through Time and Cultures
The Language of Love: Romanticism in Poetry and Prose
The Influence of Language on Perception and Reality in Literature
Breaking the Silence: The Power of Voice in Literary Works
Linguistic Diversity in Literature: Celebrating Multicultural Narratives
The Language of Despair: Exploring Tragic Elements in Literature
Symbolism and Imagery: Enhancing the Language of Literature
Metaphors and Similes: Unlocking Figurative Language in Writing
Linguistic Revolution: Exploring Language Changes in Literature
Exploring Different Literary Genres: From Drama to Fantasy
Linguistic Innovations in Modern Literature
The Language of Conflict: Exploring War Literature
Literature as a Reflection of Society: Analyzing Social Issues in Texts
The Language of Resilience: Exploring Narratives of Overcoming Challenges
The Magic of Metonymy: How Words Transform in Literature

Narrative Essay Topics About Law

The Impact of Criminal Justice Reform on Society
Analyzing the Role of Forensic Science in Solving Crimes
The Evolution of Constitutional Law in Modern Society
Exploring the Ethics of Capital Punishment
Investigating the Use of Technology in Law Enforcement
Examining the Implications of Cybercrime Legislation
Analyzing the Relationship Between Law and Morality
Exploring the Intersection of Law and Medicine in Bioethics
Evaluating the Effectiveness of Restorative Justice Programs
Analyzing the Impact of Gun Control Laws on Public Safety
The Ethics of Surveillance in a Post-9/11 World
Investigating the Legal Implications of Artificial Intelligence
The Role of Civil Liberties in a Democratic Society
Analyzing the Rights and Responsibilities of Journalists in the Age of Fake News
Examining the Legal and Ethical Considerations of End-of-Life Care
The Implications of Legalizing Marijuana for Public Health and Safety
Analyzing the Challenges of Intellectual Property Theft in the Digital Era
Evaluating the Effectiveness of Anti-discrimination Laws in the Workplace
The Impact of Social Media on Privacy Laws and Individual Rights
Analyzing the Relationship Between Law and Economics in Market Regulation
The Role of Criminal Profiling in Solving Serial Crimes

Sociology Narrative Essay Topics

Social Movements: The Impact of Civil Rights Activism in the 21st Century
Gender Roles and Stereotypes: Breaking Boundaries in Contemporary Society
Family Structures and Modern Parenting Approaches: A Comparative Analysis
Globalization and Its Effects on Cultural Identity and Social Integration
Educational Inequality: Examining the Achievement Gap in Public Schools
Immigration Policies and Social Integration: Challenges and Opportunities
Class Inequality and Social Mobility: Exploring the American Dream
The Rise of Online Communities: Redefining Social Interactions in the Digital Age
Crime and Deviance: Exploring the Societal Factors Behind Juvenile Delinquency
Religion and Society: Examining the Role of Faith in Modern Communities
Environmental Sociology: Understanding the Social Dimensions of Climate Change
Aging and Gerontology: Social Issues Surrounding the Elderly Population
Healthcare Disparities: Access, Equity, and Social Justice
The Role of NGOs in Promoting Social Change and Human Rights
Work-Life Balance: Navigating the Challenges of Modern Employment
Youth Subcultures: Identity Formation and Socialization Processes
Social Stratification: Analyzing Power Structures and Social Hierarchies
The Sociology of Sports: Exploring the Influence of Athletics on Society

Narrative Essay Topics About Engineering & Technology

The Evolution of Renewable Energy Sources in Engineering
Enhancing Efficiency Through Smart Grid Technology
Innovations in Biomedical Engineering: Transforming Healthcare
Revolutionizing Communication: The Impact of 5G Technology
Sustainable Design: Incorporating Green Engineering Practices
Robotics and Automation: Shaping the Future of Manufacturing
The Ethical Dilemmas of Genetic Engineering
Space Exploration: Engineering Beyond Earth’s Boundaries
The Impact of 3D Printing on Manufacturing Processes
Harnessing the Power of Nanotechnology in Engineering
Cybersecurity: Protecting Our Digital World
The Intersection of Engineering and Medicine: Bioengineering
The Rise of Virtual Reality: Engineering Immersive Experiences
Urban Planning: Engineering Sustainable Cities
The Integration of Blockchain Technology in Various Industries
Advancements in Materials Science and Engineering
The Promise and Challenges of Quantum Computing
The Engineering of Renewable Transportation Systems
Augmented Reality: Enhancing Real-World Experiences
Innovations in Civil Engineering: Building Bridges and Infrastructure

Narrative Essay Topics About Medicine & Health

The Impact of Modern Medicine on Public Health
Exploring the Role of Vaccinations in Disease Prevention
Advancements in Surgical Techniques: Transforming Healthcare
Unveiling the Potential of Gene Therapy in Treating Genetic Disorders
The Growing Concern About Antibiotic Resistance in the Medical Field
The Significance of Mental Health Awareness in Society
Confronting the Stigma Surrounding Mental Illness
Examining the Ethical Dilemmas of Medical Research
The Role of Artificial Intelligence in Revolutionizing Healthcare
Challenges and Innovations in Telemedicine Services
Exploring Alternative Medicine: Integrative Approaches to Health
The Role of Medical Imaging in Accurate Diagnosis
Breaking Barriers: Improving Access to Healthcare in Underserved Communities
Combating the Opioid Epidemic: Strategies and Solutions
The Psychology of Pain Management: Understanding the Mind-Body Connection
The Effectiveness of Traditional Medicine in Treating Ailments
The Role of Medical Professionals in Palliative Care
Fostering Empathy and Compassion in the Healthcare System
Navigating End-of-Life Care: Ethical and Legal Considerations
The Power of Medical Storytelling in Patient Advocacy
Exploring the Link Between Sleep and Overall Health

Business Narrative Essay Topics

Effective Strategies for Employee Retention in the Modern Workplace
Leveraging Data Analytics for Business Growth and Success
Innovations in Supply Chain Management: Enhancing Efficiency and Sustainability
The Importance of Effective Leadership in Driving Organizational Change
Implementing Diversity and Inclusion Initiatives for Business Success
The Rise of E-Commerce: Challenges and Opportunities for Traditional Retailers
The Role of Artificial Intelligence in Revolutionizing Business Operations
Building a Strong Company Culture: Key Factors and Best Practices
Navigating the Challenges of International Business Expansion
The Future of Remote Work: Implications for Organizations and Employees
Crafting a Compelling Brand Story: Strategies for Brand Differentiation
Sustainable Business Practices: Environmental and Social Responsibility
Effective Strategies for Managing Customer Relationships and Loyalty
Exploring the Gig Economy: Opportunities and Challenges for Workers and Businesses
Enhancing Customer Experience Through Personalization and Customization
Managing Risk and Uncertainty in Business: Strategies for Success
The Evolution of Corporate Governance: Ensuring Transparency and Accountability
Adapting to Change: Strategies for Thriving in Disruptive Industries
The Art of Negotiation: Building Win-Win Business Relationships

Social Work Narrative Essay Topics

The Impact of Community Outreach Programs on Underprivileged Families
Enhancing Mental Health Support in Schools: A Case Study
Empowering Youth Through Social Work Interventions
Addressing Substance Abuse and Addiction in Vulnerable Populations
Promoting Gender Equality: Challenges and Solutions in Social Work
Bridging the Gap: Facilitating Integration of Refugees Into Society
Advocacy for Affordable Housing: A Social Work Perspective
Promoting Social Justice in Criminal Justice System Reforms
Breaking the Cycle of Domestic Violence: Strategies for Support
Supporting LGBTQ+ Youth: Navigating Identity and Acceptance
Combating Human Trafficking: A Multi-Dimensional Approach
The Role of Social Workers in Child Welfare and Protection
Empowering Individuals With Disabilities: Promoting Inclusion
Addressing the Needs of Aging Population: Elderly Care Challenges
Fostering Resilience in Children From Low-Income Families
Promoting Mental Health in Marginalized Communities
Exploring the Role of Social Work in Disaster Response and Recovery
Enhancing Access to Healthcare in Underserved Communities
Supporting Survivors of Sexual Assault: The Importance of Trauma-Informed Care
Empowering Indigenous Communities: Preserving Culture and Rights
Promoting Education and Literacy in Low-Income Areas
Tackling Youth Unemployment: Creating Opportunities for Success
Nurturing Positive Parenting Skills: Strengthening Families
Addressing the Stigma of Mental Illness: Creating Supportive Environments

Psychology Narrative Essay Topics

The Influence of Attachment Styles on Romantic Relationships
Exploring the Effects of Social Media on Self-Esteem and Body Image
Examining the Role of Nature vs. Nurture in the Development of Personality
Analyzing the Cognitive Processes Involved in Decision-Making
The Psychology of Leadership and Its Impact on Team Performance
Exploring the Relationship Between Stress and Physical Health
Investigating the Psychology of Addiction and Effective Treatment Approaches
Analyzing the Factors Influencing Human Memory and Recall
The Psychology of Happiness and Well-Being: What Makes People Happy?
Examining the Link Between Personality Traits and Job Satisfaction
Exploring the Impact of Culture on Psychological Processes and Behavior
Understanding the Psychological Factors Behind Phobias and Anxiety Disorders
Analyzing the Psychological Effects of Bullying on Adolescents
The Psychology of Prejudice and Discrimination: Causes and Consequences
Examining the Relationship Between Personality and Academic Performance
Understanding the Psychological Effects of Traumatic Brain Injury
The Influence of Music on Mood and Emotional States

Descriptive Narrative Essay Topics

Serene Morning Walk Along the Seashore
Enchanting Adventures in the Enchanted Forest
Majestic Sunset Over the Golden Mountains
Unexpected Encounter With a Curious Stranger
Exhilarating Ride on a Raging Roller Coaster
Mystical Journey through Ancient Ruins
Blissful Picnic by the Sparkling Lake
Whimsical Carnival Rides and Cotton Candy Delights
Terrifying Escape From a Haunted House
Captivating Dance Performance Under the Starry Sky
Breathtaking Hike Through Lush Green Valleys
Unforgettable Road Trip Across the Vast Desert
Delightful Sleigh Ride Through a Winter Wonderland
Dramatic Rescue From a Treacherous Mountain Peak
Mesmerizing Fireworks Display on New Year’s Eve
Thrilling Surfing Lesson on Towering Ocean Waves
Heartwarming Reunion With a Long-Lost Friend
Enthralling Concert Experience of a Famous Band
Astonishing Hot Air Balloon Ride Above the City
Awe-Inspiring Safari Adventure in the African Savannah
Marvelous Exploration of a Mysterious Cave
Hilarious Comedy Show at a Stand-Up Comedy Club
Mesmerizing Stargazing Night in the Wilderness

General Guidelines

Definition of a narrative essay topic.

A narrative essay is a documentation of a real or fictitious succession of events, which share some form of link as subjects within a discourse. Basically, the presentation of events does not necessarily reflect the exact sequence of occurrence, for example, flashbacks disrupting typical successions of events. Instead, authors of narrative works must ensure that the order that they use in the presentation of events allows the audience to flow narrations easily. Then, narrative essay topics are useful in the sharing of personal perspectives on various issues. Mostly, students write narratives as a means of building their creative writing skills. In some cases, narrative papers may play the role of evaluation tools where professors ask students to reflect on their learning experiences. Besides, authors can write narrative essay topics in the first or third person.

Types of Narrative Essays

There are two main types of narrative essays: fiction and nonfiction. Basically, authors write fiction narrative papers based on imagined events, which may be motivated by past experiences or an individual’s idea of an appropriate sequence of events. In fiction narratives, both characters and events do not represent any real persons or happenings. Then, nonfiction narrative papers are an accurate representation of a series of events that authors experience or observe in the real world. Notably, the content of nonfiction narratives may not include all the events because it is a documentation of events from the perspective of the author, which implies that he or she may omit some events. In some instances, nonfiction narratives may contain fake character names to protect the privacy of real persons, but authors must warn the audience about name alterations.

Step-by-Step Construction of Narrative Essay Themes

During the process of creating a topic for a narrative essay, students should ensure that defined themes should give the audience a snapshot of a narrative in one sentence. Basically, the first step in the generation of a topic is the identification of a subject of a narrative. Then, authors distinguish whether they participated in the events, or they were merely observers. Besides, this stage is essential because it clarifies a narration perspective, which may affect the wording of a topic. In this case, writers should determine a preferred primary effect that a narrative should have on readers. Finally, authors choose a critical moment or event that is the climax of a narrative and develop a topic that adequately captures all the details, which previous four steps yield.

Working Template for a Narrative Essay Topic

Selection of a subject . Write a maximum of two sentences that describe the subject.
Identification of a narrative perspective. Identify some characters of a narrative and their roles.
Choosing a primary effect of a narration. List some feelings or thoughts that the audience should develop after reading a narrative.
Picking a climax event. Summarize a crucial moment in a few descriptive words.
Creation of a narrative essay topic. Combine keywords from previous steps, events, and other words that trigger desired effects upon the first reading.

Altering a Topic to Suite Different Purposes

The purpose of a narrative essay theme plays a crucial role in the selection of words that authors include in their topics. Basically, once a writer selects a topic, he or she may adjust it to align it with the purpose of writing. Moreover, if an author decides to write about an accident, he or she may use a narrative paper to inspire or instill fear in the audience. Consequently, the topic “The accident that defines me” can manifest in two forms that represent a narrative’s purpose. Also, another version of a narrative topic that installs fear is “A mistake at the wheel that robbed my humanity.” In turn, an alternative version, which hints at inspiration, is “The silver lining to a grisly road accident.”

Samples of Narrative Essay Topics for Other Common Themes

1. examples of themes for fictional narrative essays, a. sample ideas on an act of courage.

Arts. An artist who paints content, which is against the directives of an authoritarian government.

History. A dog plays an instrumental role in ending the battle of middle earth.

Language and literature. The books’ failed to revolt against Michael, who was a librarian attempting to digitize all books.

Law. A day in court for a mother and her rebellious daughters that demand their freedom of expression.

Sociology. The struggle for the female voice in the family structure of the animal kingdom.

Engineering and technology. John sneaks into the palace to show the king his invention, which would push most royal families out of the automotive industry.

Medicine and health. The elephant’s willingness to try a new medication, which had significant side effects.

Business. Pike’s decision to sell off the family business and invest in new technology.

Social work. Kate’s missionary work and the town council’s greed.

Psychology. Dr. Stock’s first heart surgery that brings Maddie back to life.

B. Examples of Narrative Prompts on Forever Remembered

Arts. The songwriter creates music by channeling dead artists and composers.

History. The adventurer who stole Alaric’s treasure from the hand of its keepers.

Language and literature. The mystery behind the love songs to Alexandre from his cook.

Law. A judge and prosecutor’s plan to avenge a young boy’s death.

Sociology. A researcher breaks all social bonds in her pursuit of the fountain of youth.

Engineering and technology. The day Potter created the weightless spoon.

Medicine and health. The hare’s experiments unleash a plague that kills half the animal kingdom.

Business. Jackal’s source of his unique goods, which he claims comes from the gods.

Social work. The memoirs of Locksdale’s good works in the town of Danish.

Psychology. The scientist who discovers hypnosis through dark magic.

C. Samples of Narrative Essay Topics on No Other Way

Arts. Jonas’ inspiration for Picasso’s art.

History. Hitler’s affair with a Jewish maid before the start of the world war.

Language and literature. The secret language of the church mice.

Law. The summit for creating laws for the interaction of the human race and wildlife.

Sociology. Donte’s struggles to maintain control of the locust clan after his stepbrother suggests seasonal migration to resolve their hunger problem.

Engineering and technology. An artificial intelligence program that destroys the world after remotely launching all nuclear bombs in the world.

Medicine and health. The mysterious healing powers of nurse Pattie’s special white tea.

Business. The journey across the Red Sea to the New World.

Social work. Stacy’s love affair with the leader of the hippopotamus clan saves the elephants from poverty.

Psychology. The rattlesnake’s hypnotic tail end.

D. Examples of Narrative Themes on My Reflection on Justice

Arts. A play about a girl who could talk to her reflection in the mirror.

History. The real reason for Hercules’s goal to conquer Rome.

Language and literature. Dickson’s inner voice as documented in the lost memoirs.

Law. Bayle’s regrettable role in the witch trial of Salem.

Sociology. The first adoptive animal family and the challenge of overcoming species-specific instincts.

Engineering and technology. The fuel engine laments over the damage it does to the environment in its pursuit to better the world.

Medicine and health. The witch’s use of poison that slows the heart to save a child from the killer fever of the 15 th century.

Business. A businessman who wears suits and lives a simple life despite being the head of the criminal underground.

Social work. Taking from the wealthy to assist the poor only to be caught and persecuted by the people one intends to assist.

Psychology. A narrative of a person who has two identities due to bipolar disorder.

2. Samples of Topics for Nonfictional Narrative Essays

A. examples of themes on memory of my adolescence.

Arts. Robert De Niro’s defeat of stage fright in his high school years.

History. Lord Randolph Churchill defined Winston Churchill’s idea of democracy and freedom.

Language and literature. The childhood experiences that molded Maya Angelou into a civil rights activist.

Law. A day in the world of a black teenager under the black code enforced by the Jim Crow laws.

Sociology. The move to America that gave the young girl access to opportunities for self-growth.

Engineering and technology. Bill Gates’ first rub with technology in his youth.

Medicine and health. Tony Hansberry’s accidental invention of a better stitching technique.

Business. Jake makes his first $100 from selling a new blend of juice, which set the foundation for his beverage company.

Social work. Saint Martin de Porres’ recounting his youth that contains many scars of discrimination and ridicule.

Psychology. Schizophrenia robbed Jack of his adolescent years.

B. Samples of Narrative Essay Topics on The Burden of Friendship

Arts. The filmmaker who stole movie ideas from his friends’ diaries with no apologies even after his rise to fame.

History. A tale of two brothers that decided to fight on opposite sides of the civil war, although they lived in the same home.

Language and literature. A platoon commander who writes a biography for the son of one of his lieutenants whom he sent to his death during the war.

Law. A white man’s support for emancipation leads to his alienation from the community because he believes that his black friend should enjoy equal freedoms.

Sociology. John’s time in the foster system blurs the lines between friends and family and complicates his acceptance of his biological family.

Engineering and technology. Jane’s struggle to forge new friendship on social media platforms.

Medicine and health. Dr. Drake’s research on Parkinson’s disease is a consequence of his promise to a dear friend that he would find a treatment that can save the friend’s children.

Business. A business that collapses because of competing visions for the company.

Social work. Johnson’s “everyone is a friend” policy.

Psychology. Friendships under the strain of deteriorating mental health.

C. Examples of Essay Prompts on It Was Early

Arts. The death of a playwright before the official production of his play 50 years later.

History. The stabbing of a black doctor by one of his white patients after becoming the first black surgeon at a teaching hospital in Boston.

Language and literature. Satirical writing concerning blackface destabilized the fragile white-black relations.

Law. A judge’s personal beliefs complicate his ability to justly handle cases concerning gay relationships after the legalization of gay marriage.

Sociology. A woman who losses her family over drug abuse problems.

Engineering and technology. A scientist complains that the discovery of techniques to harness nuclear energy came to an under-civilized society.

Medicine and health. The passing of a child just before the invention of the pacemaker who could save his life.

Business. Denis Polack’s attempt to introduce e-commerce three years after the development of the Internet.

Social work. The fall of a non-profit housing organization under the leadership of a corrupt chief executive officer.

Psychology. A fatal brain surgery that left the attending psychologist without any confidence to proceed with his practice.

D. Sample Ideas on The Risk and Reward Fallacy

Arts. The failure of a young man who quits art school to be an apprentice to a renowned artist.

History. Abraham Lincoln’s pursuit of shared freedom led to his death rather than providing him with the time to fulfill his leadership goals.

Language and literature. Black authors are unable to effect significant change through their writing despite receiving much persecution.

Law. A win in the supreme court cannot change the hearts of men, as shown in the events that follow the ruling of the Board of Education v Brown case.

Sociology. Human relationships do not bring positive results.

Engineering and technology. A software engineer’s obsession with commercial standalone products comes under threat from a multi-developer effort to build an open-source version of his sole product.

Medicine and health. A doctor who follows his gut rather than established statistics in advising the patient kills a young man in his unbridled optimism.

Business. A young man’s investment in bitcoin sets the tune for many who follow but fail to make significant profits.

Social work. A young social worker’s experience as a victim of a syndicate, which got her addicted to the drugs she was trying to take off the streets.

Psychology. The ignorance of ethical policies in research yields excellent results in a researcher’s work, but he struggles to live with his decision as he ages.

Students should ensure that they identify a climax event before constructing an essay topic because this theme and climax event must illustrate a clear link.
Narrative essay topics may require repeated adjustment because authors refine the plot of a paper.
The use of a proposed template should ensure that students avoid false starts, which lengthen the time required to complete a narrative paper.

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Narrative Essay

Narrative Essay Topics

Best Narrative Essay Topics 2023 for Students

Narrative Essay Topics for Students

If you're a student looking for a diverse range of topics, we've got you covered with a diverse selection of narrative essay topics.

Narrative Essay Topics for Grade 5

My First Day at a New School
The Time I Learned to Ride a Bike
A Visit to a Haunted House
The Day I Met a Real-Life Superhero
My Most Memorable Family Vacation
A Surprising Encounter with an Animal
The Mystery of the Missing Homework
The Best Birthday Party I Ever Had
When I Lost a Tooth
My Adventure in a Fantasy World

Narrative Essay Topics for Grade 6

An Unforgettable Camping Trip
The Day I Discovered a Hidden Talent
A Mysterious Letter and Its Consequences
A Time I Had to Stand Up for What's Right
The Thrilling Mystery of a Forgotten Diary
A Memorable Encounter with a Famous Person
My Journey Through a Fantasy Land
The Day I Learned a Valuable Life Lesson
An Unexpected Act of Kindness
A Secret Adventure in an Abandoned Place

Narrative Essay Topics for Grade 7

The Most Exciting Adventure of My Life
The Day I Overcame a Fear
A Memorable School Field Trip
The Strangest Mystery I Ever Encountered
An Unforgettable Encounter with Wildlife
A Life-Changing Decision I Had to Make
The Best Book I Ever Read and Why
A Day in the Life of a Time Traveler
The Importance of Friendship in My Life
A Valuable Lesson Learned from a Mistake

Narrative Essay Topics for Grade 8

A Time I Faced a Difficult Moral Dilemma
The Most Memorable Summer Vacation
The Impact of a Life-Altering Decision
An Unexpected Act of Kindness I Received
The Day I Stepped Out of My Comfort Zone
A Historical Event I Would Like to Witness
A Special Family Tradition and Its Significance
A Personal Achievement I'm Proud Of
A Challenging Obstacle I Overcame
A Journey Through My Creative Imagination

Narrative Essay Topics for Grade 9

The Transition to High School: Challenges and Triumphs
A Life-Changing Encounter with an Inspiring Mentor
My First Part-Time Job and What I Learned
The Day I Realized the Power of Empathy
The Impact of a Personal Passion or Hobby
An Unforgettable Travel Experience Abroad
A Meaningful Community Service Project I Participated In
The Role of Technology in My Life
A Defining Moment in My Cultural Identity
My Vision for the Future: Dreams and Aspirations

Narrative Essay Topics for O-Levels

The Day I Took a Leap of Faith
An Unforgettable Journey into the Unknown
A Life-Altering Decision I Made in High School
An Encounter with a Stranger That Changed My Perspective
The Role of Resilience in Overcoming a Personal Challenge
The Impact of a Cultural Exchange Experience
A Lesson Learned from a Unique Life Experience
The Importance of Perseverance in Achieving a Goal
My Most Memorable Academic Achievement
A Glimpse into My Future: Aspirations and Ambitions

Narrative Essay Topics for Highschool

The Moment I Discovered My Passion
A Life-Changing Journey Abroad
A Challenging Decision That Shaped My Future
An Unexpected Act of Kindness That Touched My Heart
The Role of Resilience in Overcoming Adversity
A Personal Experience That Shaped My Values
The Impact of Technology on My Generation
A Time I Took a Stand for a Cause I Believe In
A Memorable Leadership Role I Assumed
A Glimpse into My Ideal Future: Aspirations and Goals

Narrative Essay Topics for College

The Journey to Finding My Academic Passion
A Life-Altering Study Abroad Experience
The Transformational Impact of a Challenging Decision
Navigating the Transition from College to the Professional World
An Unforgettable Encounter with a Mentor or Role Model
The Role of Adversity in Shaping My Personal Growth
A Significant Ethical Dilemma I Faced in College
How My College Experiences Have Shaped My Worldview
The Impact of Technology on My College Education
A Personal Reflection on My Career Aspirations and Goals

Narrative Essay Topics for University

The Evolution of My Academic and Career Goals at University
An Eye-Opening Internship Experience That Impacted My Future
A Transformative Study Abroad Journey
Navigating the Complexities of Balancing Work, Academics, and Social Life at University
The Role of a Unique Research Project in My Academic Growth
A Personal Account of Overcoming a Significant Academic Challenge
A Meaningful Leadership Role in a University Organization
The Journey of Self-Discovery Through Elective Courses at University
The Impact of Peer Relationships and Networking at University
How My University Education Has Shaped My Perspective on Global Issues

Unique Narrative Essay Topics for Students

We've gathered distinct narrative topic ideas to fuel your creativity. Let’s look at some personal narrative ideas to inspire your narrative writing.

Descriptive Narrative Essay Topics

A Peaceful Day by the Riverside
Exploring a Haunted House
My Favorite Childhood Memory
A Walk Through an Ancient Forest
The Perfect Winter Wonderland
An Evening at a Carnival
A Visit to a Vibrant Art Gallery
The Spectacular Colors of Autumn
A Day in the Life of a Beach
An Exciting Night in the City

Personal Narrative Essay Topics

A Life-Changing Decision I Made
A Moment of Personal Triumph
Overcoming My Greatest Fear
A Meaningful Lesson from a Personal Challenge
The Role of a Special Friend in My Life
A Time When I Broke a Personal Record
The Impact of a Mentor on My Life
My Journey to Self-Discovery

Literacy Narrative Essay Topics

My Earliest Memory of Learning to Read
The Book That Sparked My Love for Reading
A Life-Changing Experience in a Library
The Impact of a Special Teacher on My Writing Skills
How Technology Has Shaped My Writing Habits
A Personal Reflection on My Writing Journey
The Role of Literature in Shaping My Perspective
Writing as a Tool for Self-Expression and Healing
How I Overcame Writer's Block
The Significance of Storytelling in My Life

Engaging Narrative Essay Topics

The Mystery of a Lost Treasure Map
An Unlikely Friendship That Changed My Life
A Day in the Life of a Professional Athlete
The Journey of Starting My Own Business
A Haunting Experience in a Historic Place
A Memorable Road Trip with Friends
My Encounter with a Famous Celebrity
The Day I Conquered My Greatest Fear
An Adventure in a Foreign Land
A Life-Altering Decision at a Crossroads

How to Choose a Topic for a Narrative Essay?

Choosing the right topic for your narrative essay can be a daunting task. Before you start writing, it is important to invest some time in researching and brainstorming.

Here are a few tips to help guide you in selecting an interesting and engaging narrative essay topic:

Reflect on Your Personal Experiences: If you are writing about a personal narrative topic, consider the impactful moments in your life and think about experiences that have left a strong impression on you.
Identify a Clear Message or Theme: Determine the central idea or theme of your narrative. Decide what lesson, insight, or emotion you want to convey.
Engage Your Audience: Consider your target audience and what will resonate with them. Choose a topic that captures their interest and keeps them engaged.
Play with Different Perspectives: Explore the option of incorporating different viewpoints. Combining personal and external perspectives can add depth to your narrative.
Test Your Idea: Get feedback from a friend or classmate. Assess if your chosen topic is likely to resonate with your audience.
Stay True to Your Voice: Balance considering your audience with being authentic. Let your unique voice and storytelling style shine through in your writing

Tips for Writing Narrative Essays

Once you have selected a topic for your narrative essay, it is time to start writing.

Here are a few tips to keep in mind as you write your story:

Start with a Strong Hook: Begin your narrative essay with a captivating hook, such as an engaging anecdote, a thought-provoking question, or a vivid description.
Follow a Clear Structure: Organize your narrative essay outline with a clear structure. Most narratives follow a chronological order, but you can also use flashbacks or nonlinear storytelling when it serves your narrative.
Build Tension and Conflict: Create tension and conflict in your narrative to add depth and maintain reader engagement. Whether it's a personal struggle, a moral dilemma, or an external challenge, these obstacles will keep readers eagerly anticipating what comes next.
Revise and Edit: After completing your first draft, take the time to revise and edit your work. Review it for grammar and spelling errors, but also examine the overall structure and flow of your narrative.
Practice, Practice, Practice: Like any form of writing, improving your narrative essay skills takes practice. Keep writing and experimenting with different topics, styles, and approaches to develop your storytelling abilities.

Before you start writing, make sure you read some narrative essay examples to learn how to organize your thoughts and structure your story.

In summary, no matter the type of essay you are writing about, you need a topic to start with. Our collection of narrative essay topics offers fresh, distinct ideas.

These topics are crafted to ignite your creativity and captivate your audience. They cover a diverse range of experiences, making it easier for you to connect with your readers on a personal level.

Still, struggling to write a compelling narrative essay? MyPerfectWords.com is here to help you out!

We stand as the most reliable narrative essay writing service with a specialized focus on crafting exceptional essays designed for high school and college students. Our customer support team is also available 24/7, request write my essays online whenever you need assistance.

Frequently Asked Questions

How are narrative essay topics different from other essay types.

Narrative essay topics are usually based on personal experiences, so they are more emotional and creative than other types of essays. Also, they are often more open-ended, so you have more freedom to choose what to write about.

Where can I find good narrative essay topics?

There are a few ways to find good topics for your narrative essay. You can look through books or magazines for ideas, or search online for inspiration. You can also brainstorm with friends or family members to come up with ideas.

What do I write a narrative essay about?

You can write a narrative essay about anything, but it is usually based on personal experience. Try to recall interesting incidents from your life to develop a narrative about.

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Everybody gets afraid sometimes. If there were no fear, there would be no opportunity for bravery. Write about the scariest moment in your life.
Some people avoid challenges. Others see them as opportunities to grow. Write about a time when you overcame a great challenge.
One person’s trash is another person’s treasure. Write about a time when you discovered something valuable that others had discarded or ignored.
The golden rule states that you should treat others as you’d like to be treated. It’d be nice if everyone followed this rule, but its been broken more than once. Write about a time when you felt disrespected. How did you handle it and what did you learn?
Everybody has a special talent. Write about the time when you discovered one of your talents.
It’s no fun to be in pain, but it can be worse to watch someone you love suffer. Write about a time when one of your loved ones was hurt.
The world can be a cold place, but a little bit of kindness can make it a lot warmer. Write about a time when you made the world a better place for someone by being kind.
It’s a good thing that nobody’s perfect. Some of life’s greatest lessons are learned on accident. Write about a time when you learned an important lesson by making a mistake.
It can be hard to see ourselves for who we really are at times. Write about a time when someone else taught you something about yourself.
Doing the right thing isn’t always easy. Write about a time when you got in trouble or made someone angry by doing what you thought was right.
You don’t have to learn everything the hard way. Write about a time when you avoided trouble by taking someone’s advice.
You shouldn’t judge a book by its cover. Write about a time when you were underestimated or when you underestimated someone else.
Practice makes perfect. Write about a time when you got better at doing something by practicing.
Can’t we all just get along? Write about a time when you got into a disagreement with someone. How did you resolve it?
There’s a time for work and a time for play, but it’s a lot more fun to play. Write about a time when you put off doing something important to have fun. How did it work out for you in the end and what did you learn?
You never know until you try. Write about a time when you learned something about yourself by trying something new.
Hard work doesn’t always payoff. Write about a time when you worked hard on something but felt like your efforts weren’t appreciated.
You can’t trust everyone. Write about a time when someone betrayed your trust. How did you react? Did you ever forgive them?
You can’t make everybody happy. Write about a time when you made a decision that disappointed or hurt someone.
Nobody said that life would be fair. Write about a time when you witnessed someone taking advantage of a weaker person. How did it make you feel?
Sometimes two people just click. Write about a time when you formed a genuine connection with someone.
So much in life is about the choices that you make. Write about a time when you had to choose between two things that were important to you.
It’s the people we love that can hurt us the most. Write about a time when you had to confront a loved one over their decisions.
Accomplishments mean so much more when work for them. Write about a time when you worked hard to earn something. How did it make you feel to meet your goal?
Even the best of friends have the occasional argument. Write about a time when you got into a dispute with a friend. How did the situation get resolved?
Appearances are important. Sometimes your appearance can work for you. Other times it can work against. Write about a time when someone treated you differently because of your appearance. You can share a negative or positive experience.
You can’t always get what you want and sometimes that’s for the best. Write about a time when you were denied something that you wanted and it worked out alright in the end.
Once in a while everything just goes your way. Write about a time when you felt on top of the world.
Sometimes people drift apart. Other times they are torn apart. Write about a time when you were separated from someone with whom you were close.
It’s been said that every gray cloud has a silver lining. The hard part is looking for it. Write about a time when you made the best of a bad situation.
Faith is believing in something that you cannot prove. Write about a time when you had faith in someone or something that others doubted.
There’s a time to be creative and there’s a time to follow directions. Write about a time when you benefitted from following directions.
Some people are just looking for a reason to not like you. Write about a time when you got on someone’s bad side just by being yourself.
No matter how badly someone messes up, they always have the potential to redeem themselves. Write about a time when you or someone you know made a mistake and found redemption.
It’s good to play it safe, but sometimes you have to take chances. Write about a time when you took a risk. Did it work out for you?
Most people agree that honesty is a virtue, but sometimes being too honest can get you into hot water. Write about a time when you got in trouble or on someone’s bad side just by telling the truth.
Nothing sours an accomplishment like jealousy. Write about a time when you or someone you know was affected by the jealousy of another.
The older that you get, the more responsponsibilities you gain. It can be too much at times. Write about a time when you felt overwhelmed by your responsibilities. How did you handle it?
Part of growing up is facing your fears. Write about a time when you did something that you were afraid to do.
It’s hard to think about anything else when danger is approaching. Write about a time when you felt unsafe.
You wouldn’t be where you are today without the countless sacrifices of others. Once in a while you have to give back too. Write about a time when you gave up something that was important to you to help somebody else.
It’s been said that forgiveness is divine. Write about a time when you forgave someone for hurting or disappointing you.
Our first impressions aren’t always accurate. Write about a time when your first impression of someone or something proved to be wrong.
Everybody makes mistakes, even teachers. Write about a time when you were affected by one of your teachers’ mistakes.
With so many awesome things to learn and do in the world, nobody should ever be bored. Write about a time when you turned a boring day into an exciting one.
People change. That’s a part of life. Write about a time when you or someone you know changed in an important way.
When opportunity knocks, it’s up to you to answer the door. Write about a time when you took advantage of an interesting or exciting opportunity.
A kind word can go a long way. Write about a time when someone affected you by saying something nice or encouraging.
The world needs heroes and anyone can be one. Write about a time when you did something heroic. It doesn’t have to be as dramatic as saving someone’s life. It can be as simple as helping someone out when they needed it.
Your reputation is important. People will treat you differently based on how you are reputed to be. Write about a time when you did something that affected your reputation for better or worse.
Anger can blind. Write about a time when anger caused you to behave in a way that you later regretted.
Authority is when someone has the power to make decisions for you. Write about a time when you wanted to challenge someone’s authority. What were they doing to cause you to feel this way? How did you handle the situation?
Everybody has had someone awkward moments in life. Write about a time when you felt embarrassed. How did you deal with your embarrassment?
The process of growing up is a slow one. It takes your whole childhood. But some events cause us to grow quicker than others. Write about an experience that caused you to grow up quickly.
You can’t give everyone everything that they want. That would leave nothing for you. You have to set limits. Write about a time when someone wanted more from you than you had to give.
Your conscience is that little voice in your head that tells you when you are doing something wrong. Write about a time when your conscience stopped you from doing something.
Friendship can be found in unexpected places. Write about a time when you became friends or partners with an unlikely person.
It’s important to be persistent, but you have to know when to let go too. Write about a time when you quit pursuing something or let go of a dream.
Anyone can talk. Followsing through is the hard part. Write about a time when you proved yourself with your actions.
We are all tempted to do things that we shouldn’t at times. It takes integrity to do the right thing against your baser desires. Write about a time when you resisted the temptation to do something wrong.
Tact is the ability to phrase criticism in a sensitive way. It’s hard to be tactful all of the time. Write about a time when you blurted out something that you immediately regretted saying.
It’d be nice if there were a sure fire way to tell if someone were lying, but there isn’t. Write about a time when someone deceived you. How did you find out that they were lying to you? What did you do?
You can’t win all of the time. Some of life’s greatest lessons are learned in defeat. Write about a time when you lost or failed at something and learned a lesson.
You can predict the future, but you’re not alway going to get it right. Write about a time when you were surprised by the outcome of an event.
William Shakespeare said that “Parting is such sweet sorrow.” Write about a time when you had to say goodbye to someone or something that was important to you. How did you get over the loss?
Money can’t buy everything. Write about a time when you gained something valuable that can’t be bought or sold. Some examples might include a special skill, an important understanding, or a good relationship with someone.
Presentation is everything. Write about a time when you or someone else made a strong impression based on manners. It can be a good impression or a bad one.
A little bit of gratitude goes a long way. Write about a time when you felt unappreciated.
Bad habits are hard to kick. Write about a time when you gave up something that was bad for you.
A hypocrite is a person who tells you not to do something that he or she does. Write about a time when a person acted hypocritically toward you. You may want to write about a teacher, parent, or friend.
Not knowing your limits can be dangerous. Write about a time when you or someone you know took things too far.
Laws were put in place for a reason. Still, not everyone follows them. Write about an experience that you shared with someone who broke a law.
Sometimes we make decisions without fully considering the consequences. Write about a decision that you made which you later regretted.
The only constant is change. People can change in ways that we find disappointing. Write about a time when someone you know turned out to be different than you thought they were.
You never know what you’re capable of until you try. Write about a time when you succeed at something despite your doubts.
Technology is supposed to solve our problems, but sometimes it just complicates them. Write about a time when technology made your life more difficult.
The person you are today might not be the one you are tomorrow. People always have the potential to change, to improve. Write about an experience that changed you for the better.
Our actions can have far reaching consequences that can be difficult to predict. Write about a time when you unintentionally hurt someone as a result of your actions. Did you make it up to them?
Misunderstandings are the source of many conflicts. Write about a time when you solved a problem by talking about it.
It can be hard to fit in when you feel awkward. Write about a time when you felt out of place. How did you adapt to the situation?
Staying cool and calm helps you perform better, but this isn’t always easy. Some situations push you to the edge. Write about at time when you lost your patience.
Sometimes the greatest conflicts come from within. Write about a time when you were challenged by an inner conflict. How did you resolve the problem?
The world can be an overwhelming place. Write about a time when you just wanted to get away from everything.
The best laid schemes of mice and men often go awry. Write about a time when things did not work out the way that you planned.
Not everyone is a good leader, and even good leaders can make bad decisions. Write about a time when you disagreed with someone who was in charge of you.
Sometimes we think that we need help when all we really need to do is to put forth a decent effort. Write about a time when you learned to rely on yourself.
Your national identity is complicated. Sometimes we are proud to be citizens of our country. Other times things are done in our country’s name that we dislike. Write about a time when you were either proud or ashamed of your nationality.
You can’t always get what you want, but that doesn’t mean that you should stop trying. Write about a time when you fought for what you wanted and got your way.
The world would be a better place if everyone treated each other with love and respect, but people don’t always act like that. The world can be unfair. Write about a time when you witnessed or were the victim of an injustice.
Opinions can make or break you. Write about a time when someone misjudged you.
Boys and girls are treated differently at times. It’s not fair, but it happens. Write about a time when you were treated differently because of your gender. It can be in a way that benefited you or worked against you.
It’s been said that no good deed goes unpunished. Write about a time when you were trying to help someone and it backfired.
Sometimes its best to keep your mouth shut. Write about a time when you got in trouble for sharing your opinion.
The sense of smell is closely tied to memory. Think about scents that you have linked to experiences in your mind. Write about a time when an aroma became part of your memory.
People are social by nature. Being alone can be torturesome. Write about a time when you felt lonely or abandoned.
You can’t run from your past. It will always find a way to catch up with you. Write about a time when something from your past came back to haunt you.
Many people are resistant to change, even when it is good for them. Write about a time when you grew to appreciate something that you once resisted.
Sometimes it’s better to be lucky than talented. Write about a time when you benefitted just by being in the right place at the right time.
Everybody has perfect vision when they look into the past. Write about a time when you learned something a bit too late to help.
It’s been said that the thrill is in the chase. Write about a time when you worked hard to get something, only to find out that you didn’t really want it after all.
It’s a lot easier to go with the flow, but sometimes our hearts won’t let us. Write about a time when you supported an unpopular position because of your feelings or ideals.

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The Ultimate Narrative Essay Guide for Beginners

A narrative essay tells a story in chronological order, with an introduction that introduces the characters and sets the scene. Then a series of events leads to a climax or turning point, and finally a resolution or reflection on the experience.

Speaking of which, are you in sixes and sevens about narrative essays? Don’t worry this ultimate expert guide will wipe out all your doubts. So let’s get started.

Table of Contents

Everything You Need to Know About Narrative Essay

What is a narrative essay.

When you go through a narrative essay definition, you would know that a narrative essay purpose is to tell a story. It’s all about sharing an experience or event and is different from other types of essays because it’s more focused on how the event made you feel or what you learned from it, rather than just presenting facts or an argument. Let’s explore more details on this interesting write-up and get to know how to write a narrative essay.

Elements of a Narrative Essay

Here’s a breakdown of the key elements of a narrative essay:

A narrative essay has a beginning, middle, and end. It builds up tension and excitement and then wraps things up in a neat package.

Real people, including the writer, often feature in personal narratives. Details of the characters and their thoughts, feelings, and actions can help readers to relate to the tale.

It’s really important to know when and where something happened so we can get a good idea of the context. Going into detail about what it looks like helps the reader to really feel like they’re part of the story.

Conflict or Challenge

A story in a narrative essay usually involves some kind of conflict or challenge that moves the plot along. It could be something inside the character, like a personal battle, or something from outside, like an issue they have to face in the world.

Theme or Message

A narrative essay isn’t just about recounting an event – it’s about showing the impact it had on you and what you took away from it. It’s an opportunity to share your thoughts and feelings about the experience, and how it changed your outlook.

Emotional Impact

The author is trying to make the story they’re telling relatable, engaging, and memorable by using language and storytelling to evoke feelings in whoever’s reading it.

Narrative essays let writers have a blast telling stories about their own lives. It’s an opportunity to share insights and impart wisdom, or just have some fun with the reader. Descriptive language, sensory details, dialogue, and a great narrative voice are all essentials for making the story come alive.

The Purpose of a Narrative Essay

A narrative essay is more than just a story – it’s a way to share a meaningful, engaging, and relatable experience with the reader. Includes:

Sharing Personal Experience

Narrative essays are a great way for writers to share their personal experiences, feelings, thoughts, and reflections. It’s an opportunity to connect with readers and make them feel something.

Entertainment and Engagement

The essay attempts to keep the reader interested by using descriptive language, storytelling elements, and a powerful voice. It attempts to pull them in and make them feel involved by creating suspense, mystery, or an emotional connection.

Conveying a Message or Insight

Narrative essays are more than just a story – they aim to teach you something. They usually have a moral lesson, a new understanding, or a realization about life that the author gained from the experience.

Building Empathy and Understanding

By telling their stories, people can give others insight into different perspectives, feelings, and situations. Sharing these tales can create compassion in the reader and help broaden their knowledge of different life experiences.

Inspiration and Motivation

Stories about personal struggles, successes, and transformations can be really encouraging to people who are going through similar situations. It can provide them with hope and guidance, and let them know that they’re not alone.

Reflecting on Life’s Significance

These essays usually make you think about the importance of certain moments in life or the impact of certain experiences. They make you look deep within yourself and ponder on the things you learned or how you changed because of those events.

Demonstrating Writing Skills

Coming up with a gripping narrative essay takes serious writing chops, like vivid descriptions, powerful language, timing, and organization. It’s an opportunity for writers to show off their story-telling abilities.

Preserving Personal History

Sometimes narrative essays are used to record experiences and special moments that have an emotional resonance. They can be used to preserve individual memories or for future generations to look back on.

Cultural and Societal Exploration

Personal stories can look at cultural or social aspects, giving us an insight into customs, opinions, or social interactions seen through someone’s own experience.

Format of a Narrative Essay

Narrative essays are quite flexible in terms of format, which allows the writer to tell a story in a creative and compelling way. Here’s a quick breakdown of the narrative essay format, along with some examples:

Introduction

Set the scene and introduce the story.

Engage the reader and establish the tone of the narrative.

Hook: Start with a captivating opening line to grab the reader’s attention. For instance:

Example: “The scorching sun beat down on us as we trekked through the desert, our water supply dwindling.”

Background Information: Provide necessary context or background without giving away the entire story.

Example: “It was the summer of 2015 when I embarked on a life-changing journey to…”

Thesis Statement or Narrative Purpose

Present the main idea or the central message of the essay.

Offer a glimpse of what the reader can expect from the narrative.

Thesis Statement: This isn’t as rigid as in other essays but can be a sentence summarizing the essence of the story.

Example: “Little did I know, that seemingly ordinary hike would teach me invaluable lessons about resilience and friendship.”

Body Paragraphs

Present the sequence of events in chronological order.

Develop characters, setting, conflict, and resolution.

Story Progression : Describe events in the order they occurred, focusing on details that evoke emotions and create vivid imagery.

Example : Detail the trek through the desert, the challenges faced, interactions with fellow hikers, and the pivotal moments.

Character Development : Introduce characters and their roles in the story. Show their emotions, thoughts, and actions.

Example : Describe how each character reacted to the dwindling water supply and supported each other through adversity.

Dialogue and Interactions : Use dialogue to bring the story to life and reveal character personalities.

Example : “Sarah handed me her last bottle of water, saying, ‘We’re in this together.'”

Reach the peak of the story, the moment of highest tension or significance.

Turning Point: Highlight the most crucial moment or realization in the narrative.

Example: “As the sun dipped below the horizon and hope seemed lost, a distant sound caught our attention—the rescue team’s helicopters.”

Provide closure to the story.

Reflect on the significance of the experience and its impact.

Reflection : Summarize the key lessons learned or insights gained from the experience.

Example : “That hike taught me the true meaning of resilience and the invaluable support of friendship in challenging times.”

Closing Thought : End with a memorable line that reinforces the narrative’s message or leaves a lasting impression.

Example : “As we boarded the helicopters, I knew this adventure would forever be etched in my heart.”

Example Summary:

Imagine a narrative about surviving a challenging hike through the desert, emphasizing the bonds formed and lessons learned. The narrative essay structure might look like starting with an engaging scene, narrating the hardships faced, showcasing the characters’ resilience, and culminating in a powerful realization about friendship and endurance.

Different Types of Narrative Essays

There are a bunch of different types of narrative essays – each one focuses on different elements of storytelling and has its own purpose. Here’s a breakdown of the narrative essay types and what they mean.

Personal Narrative

Description : Tells a personal story or experience from the writer’s life.

Purpose: Reflects on personal growth, lessons learned, or significant moments.

Example of Narrative Essay Types:

Topic : “The Day I Conquered My Fear of Public Speaking”

Focus: Details the experience, emotions, and eventual triumph over a fear of public speaking during a pivotal event.

Descriptive Narrative

Description : Emphasizes vivid details and sensory imagery.

Purpose : Creates a sensory experience, painting a vivid picture for the reader.

Topic : “A Walk Through the Enchanted Forest”

Focus : Paints a detailed picture of the sights, sounds, smells, and feelings experienced during a walk through a mystical forest.

Autobiographical Narrative

Description: Chronicles significant events or moments from the writer’s life.

Purpose: Provides insights into the writer’s life, experiences, and growth.

Topic: “Lessons from My Childhood: How My Grandmother Shaped Who I Am”

Focus: Explores pivotal moments and lessons learned from interactions with a significant family member.

Experiential Narrative

Description: Relays experiences beyond the writer’s personal life.

Purpose: Shares experiences, travels, or events from a broader perspective.

Topic: “Volunteering in a Remote Village: A Journey of Empathy”

Focus: Chronicles the writer’s volunteering experience, highlighting interactions with a community and personal growth.

Literary Narrative

Description: Incorporates literary elements like symbolism, allegory, or thematic explorations.

Purpose: Uses storytelling for deeper explorations of themes or concepts.

Topic: “The Symbolism of the Red Door: A Journey Through Change”

Focus: Uses a red door as a symbol, exploring its significance in the narrator’s life and the theme of transition.

Historical Narrative

Description: Recounts historical events or periods through a personal lens.

Purpose: Presents history through personal experiences or perspectives.

Topic: “A Grandfather’s Tales: Living Through the Great Depression”

Focus: Shares personal stories from a family member who lived through a historical era, offering insights into that period.

Digital or Multimedia Narrative

Description: Incorporates multimedia elements like images, videos, or audio to tell a story.

Purpose: Explores storytelling through various digital platforms or formats.

Topic: “A Travel Diary: Exploring Europe Through Vlogs”

Focus: Combines video clips, photos, and personal narration to document a travel experience.

How to Choose a Topic for Your Narrative Essay?

Selecting a compelling topic for your narrative essay is crucial as it sets the stage for your storytelling. Choosing a boring topic is one of the narrative essay mistakes to avoid . Here’s a detailed guide on how to choose the right topic:

Reflect on Personal Experiences

Significant Moments:

Moments that had a profound impact on your life or shaped your perspective.

Example: A moment of triumph, overcoming a fear, a life-changing decision, or an unforgettable experience.

Emotional Resonance:

Events that evoke strong emotions or feelings.

Example: Joy, fear, sadness, excitement, or moments of realization.

Lessons Learned:

Experiences that taught you valuable lessons or brought about personal growth.

Example: Challenges that led to personal development, shifts in mindset, or newfound insights.

Explore Unique Perspectives

Uncommon Experiences:

Unique or unconventional experiences that might captivate the reader’s interest.

Example: Unusual travels, interactions with different cultures, or uncommon hobbies.

Different Points of View:

Stories from others’ perspectives that impacted you deeply.

Example: A family member’s story, a friend’s experience, or a historical event from a personal lens.

Focus on Specific Themes or Concepts

Themes or Concepts of Interest:

Themes or ideas you want to explore through storytelling.

Example: Friendship, resilience, identity, cultural diversity, or personal transformation.

Symbolism or Metaphor:

Using symbols or metaphors as the core of your narrative.

Example: Exploring the symbolism of an object or a place in relation to a broader theme.

Consider Your Audience and Purpose

Relevance to Your Audience:

Topics that resonate with your audience’s interests or experiences.

Example: Choose a relatable theme or experience that your readers might connect with emotionally.

Impact or Message:

What message or insight do you want to convey through your story?

Example: Choose a topic that aligns with the message or lesson you aim to impart to your readers.

Brainstorm and Evaluate Ideas

Free Writing or Mind Mapping:

Process: Write down all potential ideas without filtering. Mind maps or free-writing exercises can help generate diverse ideas.

Evaluate Feasibility:

The depth of the story, the availability of vivid details, and your personal connection to the topic.

Imagine you’re considering topics for a narrative essay. You reflect on your experiences and decide to explore the topic of “Overcoming Stage Fright: How a School Play Changed My Perspective.” This topic resonates because it involves a significant challenge you faced and the personal growth it brought about.

Narrative Essay Topics

50 easy narrative essay topics.

Learning to Ride a Bike
My First Day of School
A Surprise Birthday Party
The Day I Got Lost
Visiting a Haunted House
An Encounter with a Wild Animal
My Favorite Childhood Toy
The Best Vacation I Ever Had
An Unforgettable Family Gathering
Conquering a Fear of Heights
A Special Gift I Received
Moving to a New City
The Most Memorable Meal
Getting Caught in a Rainstorm
An Act of Kindness I Witnessed
The First Time I Cooked a Meal
My Experience with a New Hobby
The Day I Met My Best Friend
A Hike in the Mountains
Learning a New Language
An Embarrassing Moment
Dealing with a Bully
My First Job Interview
A Sporting Event I Attended
The Scariest Dream I Had
Helping a Stranger
The Joy of Achieving a Goal
A Road Trip Adventure
Overcoming a Personal Challenge
The Significance of a Family Tradition
An Unusual Pet I Owned
A Misunderstanding with a Friend
Exploring an Abandoned Building
My Favorite Book and Why
The Impact of a Role Model
A Cultural Celebration I Participated In
A Valuable Lesson from a Teacher
A Trip to the Zoo
An Unplanned Adventure
Volunteering Experience
A Moment of Forgiveness
A Decision I Regretted
A Special Talent I Have
The Importance of Family Traditions
The Thrill of Performing on Stage
A Moment of Sudden Inspiration
The Meaning of Home
Learning to Play a Musical Instrument
A Childhood Memory at the Park
Witnessing a Beautiful Sunset

Narrative Essay Topics for College Students

Discovering a New Passion
Overcoming Academic Challenges
Navigating Cultural Differences
Embracing Independence: Moving Away from Home
Exploring Career Aspirations
Coping with Stress in College
The Impact of a Mentor in My Life
Balancing Work and Studies
Facing a Fear of Public Speaking
Exploring a Semester Abroad
The Evolution of My Study Habits
Volunteering Experience That Changed My Perspective
The Role of Technology in Education
Finding Balance: Social Life vs. Academics
Learning a New Skill Outside the Classroom
Reflecting on Freshman Year Challenges
The Joys and Struggles of Group Projects
My Experience with Internship or Work Placement
Challenges of Time Management in College
Redefining Success Beyond Grades
The Influence of Literature on My Thinking
The Impact of Social Media on College Life
Overcoming Procrastination
Lessons from a Leadership Role
Exploring Diversity on Campus
Exploring Passion for Environmental Conservation
An Eye-Opening Course That Changed My Perspective
Living with Roommates: Challenges and Lessons
The Significance of Extracurricular Activities
The Influence of a Professor on My Academic Journey
Discussing Mental Health in College
The Evolution of My Career Goals
Confronting Personal Biases Through Education
The Experience of Attending a Conference or Symposium
Challenges Faced by Non-Native English Speakers in College
The Impact of Traveling During Breaks
Exploring Identity: Cultural or Personal
The Impact of Music or Art on My Life
Addressing Diversity in the Classroom
Exploring Entrepreneurial Ambitions
My Experience with Research Projects
Overcoming Impostor Syndrome in College
The Importance of Networking in College
Finding Resilience During Tough Times
The Impact of Global Issues on Local Perspectives
The Influence of Family Expectations on Education
Lessons from a Part-Time Job
Exploring the College Sports Culture
The Role of Technology in Modern Education
The Journey of Self-Discovery Through Education

Narrative Essay Comparison

Narrative essay vs. descriptive essay.

Here’s our first narrative essay comparison! While both narrative and descriptive essays focus on vividly portraying a subject or an event, they differ in their primary objectives and approaches. Now, let’s delve into the nuances of comparison on narrative essays.

Narrative Essay:

Storytelling: Focuses on narrating a personal experience or event.

Chronological Order: Follows a structured timeline of events to tell a story.

Message or Lesson: Often includes a central message, moral, or lesson learned from the experience.

Engagement: Aims to captivate the reader through a compelling storyline and character development.

First-Person Perspective: Typically narrated from the writer’s point of view, using “I” and expressing personal emotions and thoughts.

Plot Development: Emphasizes a plot with a beginning, middle, climax, and resolution.

Character Development: Focuses on describing characters, their interactions, emotions, and growth.

Conflict or Challenge: Usually involves a central conflict or challenge that drives the narrative forward.

Dialogue: Incorporates conversations to bring characters and their interactions to life.

Reflection: Concludes with reflection or insight gained from the experience.

Descriptive Essay:

Vivid Description: Aims to vividly depict a person, place, object, or event.

Imagery and Details: Focuses on sensory details to create a vivid image in the reader’s mind.

Emotion through Description: Uses descriptive language to evoke emotions and engage the reader’s senses.

Painting a Picture: Creates a sensory-rich description allowing the reader to visualize the subject.

Imagery and Sensory Details: Focuses on providing rich sensory descriptions, using vivid language and adjectives.

Point of Focus: Concentrates on describing a specific subject or scene in detail.

Spatial Organization: Often employs spatial organization to describe from one area or aspect to another.

Objective Observations: Typically avoids the use of personal opinions or emotions; instead, the focus remains on providing a detailed and objective description.

Comparison:

Focus: Narrative essays emphasize storytelling, while descriptive essays focus on vividly describing a subject or scene.

Perspective: Narrative essays are often written from a first-person perspective, while descriptive essays may use a more objective viewpoint.

Purpose: Narrative essays aim to convey a message or lesson through a story, while descriptive essays aim to paint a detailed picture for the reader without necessarily conveying a specific message.

Narrative Essay vs. Argumentative Essay

The narrative essay and the argumentative essay serve distinct purposes and employ different approaches:

Engagement and Emotion: Aims to captivate the reader through a compelling story.

Reflective: Often includes reflection on the significance of the experience or lessons learned.

First-Person Perspective: Typically narrated from the writer’s point of view, sharing personal emotions and thoughts.

Plot Development: Emphasizes a storyline with a beginning, middle, climax, and resolution.

Message or Lesson: Conveys a central message, moral, or insight derived from the experience.

Argumentative Essay:

Persuasion and Argumentation: Aims to persuade the reader to adopt the writer’s viewpoint on a specific topic.

Logical Reasoning: Presents evidence, facts, and reasoning to support a particular argument or stance.

Debate and Counterarguments: Acknowledge opposing views and counter them with evidence and reasoning.

Thesis Statement: Includes a clear thesis statement that outlines the writer’s position on the topic.

Thesis and Evidence: Starts with a strong thesis statement and supports it with factual evidence, statistics, expert opinions, or logical reasoning.

Counterarguments: Addresses opposing viewpoints and provides rebuttals with evidence.

Logical Structure: Follows a logical structure with an introduction, body paragraphs presenting arguments and evidence, and a conclusion reaffirming the thesis.

Formal Language: Uses formal language and avoids personal anecdotes or emotional appeals.

Objective: Argumentative essays focus on presenting a logical argument supported by evidence, while narrative essays prioritize storytelling and personal reflection.

Purpose: Argumentative essays aim to persuade and convince the reader of a particular viewpoint, while narrative essays aim to engage, entertain, and share personal experiences.

Structure: Narrative essays follow a storytelling structure with character development and plot, while argumentative essays follow a more formal, structured approach with logical arguments and evidence.

In essence, while both essays involve writing and presenting information, the narrative essay focuses on sharing a personal experience, whereas the argumentative essay aims to persuade the audience by presenting a well-supported argument.

Narrative Essay vs. Personal Essay

While there can be an overlap between narrative and personal essays, they have distinctive characteristics:

Storytelling: Emphasizes recounting a specific experience or event in a structured narrative form.

Engagement through Story: Aims to engage the reader through a compelling story with characters, plot, and a central theme or message.

Reflective: Often includes reflection on the significance of the experience and the lessons learned.

First-Person Perspective: Typically narrated from the writer’s viewpoint, expressing personal emotions and thoughts.

Plot Development: Focuses on developing a storyline with a clear beginning, middle, climax, and resolution.

Character Development: Includes descriptions of characters, their interactions, emotions, and growth.

Central Message: Conveys a central message, moral, or insight derived from the experience.

Personal Essay:

Exploration of Ideas or Themes: Explores personal ideas, opinions, or reflections on a particular topic or subject.

Expression of Thoughts and Opinions: Expresses the writer’s thoughts, feelings, and perspectives on a specific subject matter.

Reflection and Introspection: Often involves self-reflection and introspection on personal experiences, beliefs, or values.

Varied Structure and Content: Can encompass various forms, including memoirs, personal anecdotes, or reflections on life experiences.

Flexibility in Structure: Allows for diverse structures and forms based on the writer’s intent, which could be narrative-like or more reflective.

Theme-Centric Writing: Focuses on exploring a central theme or idea, with personal anecdotes or experiences supporting and illustrating the theme.

Expressive Language: Utilizes descriptive and expressive language to convey personal perspectives, emotions, and opinions.

Focus: Narrative essays primarily focus on storytelling through a structured narrative, while personal essays encompass a broader range of personal expression, which can include storytelling but isn’t limited to it.

Structure: Narrative essays have a more structured plot development with characters and a clear sequence of events, while personal essays might adopt various structures, focusing more on personal reflection, ideas, or themes.

Intent: While both involve personal experiences, narrative essays emphasize telling a story with a message or lesson learned, while personal essays aim to explore personal thoughts, feelings, or opinions on a broader range of topics or themes.

5 Easy Steps for Writing a Narrative Essay

A narrative essay is more than just telling a story. It’s also meant to engage the reader, get them thinking, and leave a lasting impact. Whether it’s to amuse, motivate, teach, or reflect, these essays are a great way to communicate with your audience. This interesting narrative essay guide was all about letting you understand the narrative essay, its importance, and how can you write one.

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50 Engaging Narrative Essay Topics for High Schoolers

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What’s Covered:

Narrative essays vs. analytical essays, how to pick the right narrative essay topic, elements of a strong narrative essay, engaging narrative essay topics for high schoolers, where to get your narrative essay edited for free.

Narrative essays are an extensive form of writing that gives readers the opportunity to follow along as a person goes through a journey or sets of experiences. Rather than providing analytic insight, narrative essays simply share a story and offer a first-person account. These essays may seem easy to write at first, but it takes a certain finesse to write a narrative essay that is interesting, cohesive, and well-researched. Whether you’re looking for a unique topic to write about, or just want some new inspiration, CollegeVine is here to help! These 50 narrative essay topics are engaging, unique and will have you writing in no time.

A narrative essay is a great way to express your personal experiences and opinions, but it is important to remember that this type of essay is different from an analytical paper. In a narrative essay, you do not need to provide background information or explain your thoughts and feelings; instead, you simply tell a story. It’s important to avoid too much telling in your writing; instead, use creative details and vivid imagery to make readers feel as if they are actually right there with you.

Where You Will Encounter Narrative Essays

This type of essay is typically encountered in high school, where students may be required to write personal statements to prepare for their Common App essay . Narrative essays are also commonly seen in AP Language and Composition. Therefore, it’s important you are aware of the style because you are bound to have a narrative essay assignment.

Of course, before you start writing, it is important to pick the right essay topic. There are many factors involved in the process of picking the perfect narrative essay topic for your story.

You should always choose a topic that you are passionate about, since writing on something you care about will make the process much easier. Not only will it be more interesting to create your paper around something that truly interests you, but it will also allow you to fully express yourself in your essay. You also want to be sure that the topic has enough material to work with. If your chosen topic is too short, you will not have enough content to write a complete paper. For example, if you are writing about your experience getting lost at the mall, make sure that you have enough information to work with to craft an engaging narrative.

The best topic for an engaging narrative essay is one that focuses on showing versus telling, has a clear structure, and provides a dialogue. These elements come together to form an engaging narrative essay. Regardless of what subject you pick, any topic may be turned into a fascinating, A+ worthy narrative using the tips below.

Show, Don’t Tell

To write a good narrative essay, it’s important to show, not tell. Instead of simply informing your audience, show them what you mean. For example, instead of saying “I was nervous,” you could say “My heart began to race and my stomach filled with butterflies.” Also make sure to use sensory details, such as sights, sounds and tastes, and include a personal reflection at the end of your narrative.

Begin with a Strong Opening Line

A good narrative essay will begin with an attention-grabbing opening line. But make sure to avoid common clichés, such as “It was the best of times, it was the worst of times.” Instead, come up with something original and specific to you and your situation. For example: “My pre-calc teacher was obsessed with circles. I mean, he even used circular note cards.” Or, “It all started the day my mom brought home a guinea pig.”

Follows a Three-Act Structure

A strong narrative essay follows the same three-act structure as other essays. But in order to make it interesting, you’ll need to come up with a creative way to break things down into sections. For example, using the guinea pig example from above, you could write the following:

Act 1 – Introduction: The day my mom brought home a guinea pig.
Act 2 – Conflict: The day I had to say goodbye to my beloved pet.
Act 3 – Conclusion: Looking back at how much I miss him now that he’s gone.

Conclude with Personal Reflection

To conclude your narrative essay, you’ll want to explain what this specific experience taught you or how you’ve changed. For example, upon realizing that her pre-calc teacher was obsessed with circles, the writer of the previous example begins to notice circular shapes everywhere. Another way to conclude your narrative essay is by touching on how this experience impacted you emotionally. For example, after losing his guinea pig, the writer explains how much he missed it.

Use Dialogue

Include a conversation in your essay to make it come alive. For example, instead of simply saying that you met a new friend, talk about how you introduced yourselves or what they were wearing when you met them.

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The following list of 50 narrative essay topics is divided into categories. This will make it easier to find a topic that fits your writing style.

1. What is a childhood song that still sticks with you today?

2. Your first day of Kindergarten

3. Talk about a time when you’re siblings looked up to you

4. Describe the best birthday party you’ve ever had

5. Talk about the best day you ever spent with a childhood friend

6. Explain your first childhood hobby

7. Describe your first halloween costume

8. A family vacation gone wrong

9. Your first family reunion

10. Describe a tradition that is unique to your family

11. Describe your family to a person who’s never met them before

12. What frustrates you most about your family

13. If you could only keep one memory of your family, what would it be and why?

14. Describe a time your family embarrassed you in public

15. The most beautiful place in the world

16. Your favorite season and why

17. If you were a part of nature, what element would you be? Why?

18. When you go outside, which of your senses are you most thankful to have?

19. Describe the first time you witnessed a tornado

20. Write a poem about your favorite season

21. Describe yourself as one of the four seasons

22. Describe a time in which you felt connected with nature

23. Describe the first time you played an instrument and how you felt

24. What major event would be much worse if music was removed, and why?

25. If you could only listen to one song for the rest of your life, what would it be and why?

26. What would a life without music look like?

27. If you could master one instrument, what would it be and why?

Relationships

28. What if you had never met your best friend?

29. Describe a time when you fixed a broken relationship

30. Talk about a movie that defined a relationship for you

31. Describe your first date

32. Describe the first time you made a friend

33. Describe your relationship with your parents

Self Reflection

34. Have you ever fooled someone? If so, describe what happened and how you felt about it

35. What is the worst thing you’ve done to someone else?

36. Write about the difference between how things seem and how they really are.

37. Have you ever been embarrassed in some way? If so, describe the situation and how it affected you as well as those around you

38. Have you ever witnessed something really beautiful? Describe it

39. Is your glass half empty or half full?

Overcoming Adversity

40. Have you ever been very afraid of something but tried your hardest to appear fearless? If so, describe that experience

41. When have you ever succeeded when you thought you might fail

42. What are your secret survival strategies?

43. Describe the last time you were stressed and why?

44. Describe a time when you were discriminated against

45. The most memorable class you’ve had and why

46. Your favorite study abroad memory

47. Describe your kindergarten classroom

48. Describe your first teacher

49. The first time you experienced detention

50. Your first field trip

Hopefully these topics will get you thinking about a personal experience that could make for a thoughtful and engaging narrative essay. Remember, a strong narrative essay must contain relatable details and a clear flow that keeps the reader entertained and engaged to read all the way to the end.

If you need some additional guidance on your narrative essay, use CollegeVine’s free peer review essay tool to get feedback for free!

Hot 100+ Narrative Essay Topics to Jumpstart Your Next Paper

Do you have a pending narrative essay and run out of narrative essay ideas to compose a compelling paper? What do you do when you need to generate quick narrative essay titles without messing up an essay’s overall quality? You don’t need to worry if you need appropriate topics for narrative papers.

This post shares a list of narrative essay topics to inspire you. Keep reading to get more inspiration for future narrative assignments in 2024.

Tips on How to Choose the Best Topic for a Narrative Essay

Generating the right narrative essay ideas is critical because it can make or break narrative assignments. Choosing an appropriate title will help spark your readers’ attention and arrest their focus. Accurate topic selection also motivates your writing because you are least likely to enjoy researching or writing about a boring topic for a narrative essay . To help you excel in this area, we prepared tips to inspire you.

Flash Back on Personal Experiences: This method is necessary when handling a personal narrative paper. Here, you must focus on your life’s most impactful moments and how they affected you.
Determine a Clear Message or Idea: Determine the paper’s central idea based on the insights, lessons, and emotions you want to share with readers.
Engage Readers: Factor your target readers and what resonates best with them. So, select a topic that arrests their interest and engages them.
Use Various Perspectives: Incorporate various viewpoints. You can combine personal and external perspectives to make your narrative more engaging.
Test Ideas: It would be best for you and your readers to test an idea by getting valuable feedback from your trusted friends or classmates. Such assessment makes your selected topic resonate well with readers.
Maintain Your Voice: Maintain your audience by remaining authentic and letting your unique voice and storytelling style beam throughout an assignment.

Top Ideas for Narrative Essay for 2024

We promised a long list of narrative essay ideas for future assignments. Here are sample narrative writing topics for consideration under different categories.

10 Best Narrative Essay Topics for College Students

Do you want the best ideas for a narrative essay ? Here are sample narrative essay titles to consider.

My journey to finding my life’s purpose.
My life-changing foreign study experience.
How a challenging decision transformed me.
Transitioning from college to the career world.
My memorable moment with my mentor.
How adversity shaped my personal growth and development.
The most transformative ethical dilemma I have faced in life.
How college encounters have shaped my worldview.
How technology shaped my college experience.
My personal reflection on my professional goals.

10 Top Narrative Essay Topics for University Students

You shouldn’t worry about finding good narrative essay ideas for university assignments when these narrative essay titles can assist.

The transformation of my career objectives at university.
My most memorable internship experience.
My life-transforming encounter with poverty.
How I navigate the complexities of balancing my studies and social life.
A challenging research project that shaped my academic development.
An elaborate account of surmounting an academic challenge.
The most memorable leadership experience in my study life.
My journey of selecting university courses.
How peer relationships and networking have impacted my journey through university.
Ways university exposure has shaped my perspective on life.

10 Literacy Narrative Essay Topics

Here are inspiring narrative essay prompts for consideration in future literacy assignments.

The best book that made me love reading.
How a special teacher impacted my reading skills.
The impact of technology on my reading habits.
A memorable reflection on my writing journey.
Tops ways literature shaped my perspective.
How I overcome writer’s block.
Ways storytelling has impacted me.
How literacy helps me change my view of poverty.
Ways literacy changed my view of gender equality.
How digital technology shaped my experience of literacy.

10 Best Descriptive Narrative Essay Topics

No more need to scratch your head to find appropriate topics for narrative essays . Here are evergreen narrative essay ideas .

A serene day by the beach.
The pain of living in a crime-prone neighborhood.
My favorite high school moment.
A visit to a haunted house.
The wedding celebration that never happened.
My perfect winter experience.
My favorite summer hobby.
A visit to my favorite museum.
A memorable visit to an art exhibition.
The most spectacular soccer match I attended.

10 Short Narrative Essay Topics

Need short narrative essay topic ideas for your next assignment? Look no further than these exciting samples.

My first flight.
The first cruise I enjoyed in the ocean.
My worst memories in high school.
The most memorable event in my primary school.
My biggest fear.
My first international vacation.
How I survived my worst loss.
My encounter with racial discrimination.
My secret to a balanced life.
My most valuable people.

10 Funny Narrative Essay Topics

Do you love fun and would love to let it spice up your essays? Here are funny narrative topic ideas for inspiration.

Why clever people always fail.
Why watching soap operas is harmful to your health.
Dirty secrets your primary teachers never told you about education.
You can know what a pet is thinking.
Why Amazon isn’t my favorite brand.
Why I love it when my laptop freezes up.
The customer is not always right.
The seller is as right as the buyer.
Why teenagers don’t deserve well-paying jobs.
Why dressing up never changes people’s attitudes.

Best 10 Fictional Narrative Essay Topics

Your search for fictional narrative topics ends here with these exciting samples. Read on to get inspired.

Life in a city where people never sleep.
Experiencing life in a remote village where there are no sick people.
Your experience in a paradise where people never work and earn.
A school where all students score straight A’s in all subjects.
A kindergarten boy who hunts and kills lions.
A super-genius boy who hustles his way to become a billionaire before 12 years.
A remote village where everyone is a professor.
A girl who can read a thousand words per minute.
My visit to a city without poor people.
A visit to a city with golden streets.

10 Inspiring Cultural Narrative Essay Topics

Your cultural narrative paper can be a breeze if you focus it on one of these topics for narrative writing .

Narrate how your family’s unique culinary heritage influences your cultural identity.
Narrate a particular cultural artifact that your family values.
Discuss the challenges you faced trying to preserve traditional customs without trashing modern societal expectations.
Describe how a dominant culture has affected your upbringing.
Recount how your experience as an immigrant has shaped your perspective on cultural assimilation.
The lessons I learned from participating in interracial exchange programs.
Describe a unique cultural practice within your community that outsiders don’t understand.
Reflect on a personal journey of reconnecting with your cultural roots.
Describe the role of storytelling in preserving cultural wisdom in your family.
Recount the day you challenged cultural stereotypes.

10 Controversial Narrative Essay Topics

Don’t let your inspiration for controversial topics run dry when these interesting narrative essay topics can inspire you. Read on to spice up your next paper.

Describe your feelings about the morality of euthanasia.
Narrate why you think animal testing is unethical and should be banned.
Describe how you felt when the death penalty was removed in your country.
Describe why you feel all vaccines should be voluntary.
The negative impact of healthcare companies on people’s overall health.
Space exploration programs are totally misplaced priorities but politically correct.
Describe your feelings, given that the climate change debate is more political than environmental.
Give your feelings on the deficiency of standardized testing.
Nuclear energy is not sustainable and safe.
Sex education should be banned in schools.

10 Nonfiction Narrative Essay Topics

Do you want good narrative topics to inspire your nonfiction assignments in 2024? Check out how these sample titles can help you.

Narrate how you conquered the fears that stood between you and your career dreams.
Describe the inner strengths you discovered about yourself when facing the biggest challenge in life.
Recount the most creative solution you formulated during your greatest financial difficulty.
Recount the day you stood against injustice in society and the lessons you learned.
Narrate how you survived a life-threatening natural disaster and how it shaped your perspective on life’s brevity.
How did your mingling with people of other cultures affect your view of the beauty of human diversity?
Narrate how unexpected kindness far away from home shaped your view of other people.
Describe one major decision that changed the direction of your career path.
What is the most important relationship that has contributed the most to your dreams in life?
Narrate the most important conversation you had with your most trusted mentor and how it affected you for the better.

Great narrative writing depends on the quality of the topics you choose. Selecting the correct titles makes your paper easier to research and write. It also engages readers more meaningfully.

However, the selection isn’t always easy, but it’s still possible with a little help from our narrative essay writing service . That’s why we created this post to give you tips on how to select appropriate topics for narrative tasks. Moreover, we created a list of narrative essay topics for various categories to give you a good head start.

It’s up to you to use these samples to fuel your topic search and choice. Don’t hesitate to contact us for any further assistance with all your academic writing and assignment needs.

Evergreen To Kill a Mockingbird Essay Topics

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Late! She was running late, Lyria realized, as faint music met her ears at the bottom of the grand staircase. Gathering the skirts of her midnight-to-sky blue gown in her delicate hands, she dashed up the stairs. The crystals sewn into the fabric caught the light with each movement, casting tiny, star-like reflections along the corridor. Her ascent was swift and graceful, the ethereal sleeves of her gown flowing behind her like wisps of cloud as she hastened to join the other guests. Drawing closer to the entrance, there was no mis...

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Noises. Aaron listened to the voices of dozens around him, a blur of conversations from inside the great chamber mixed with the distant chatter from the garden outside. The unified sounds of clicking tongues, smacking lips, and sporadic bursts of laughter created a wave of sound to tantalizing to piece apart.There was nothing here for him, surrounded by the cream of the crop, dressed in the finest wear of society, while he sat alone by the punch bowl, pondering his circumstance. The manor's beauty, enhanced by its luxurious furnishings, intr...

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Hannah hated to admit how good she felt in the dress. The fabric, the cut, the draping, it all exuded richness. And the way people looked at her, with some mix of envy or longing. There was an allure to it.However, someone with a keen eye could see the fit was ever so slightly off. It was the littlest bit loose at the shoulder and just a tad long at the hem. A perfectly tailored couture gown, just not for her. For her roommate, Claire.The pochette was even more enviable to some. It was beaded and glistening with garish hardware meant to be r...

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At a very young age, I realized I could pick up sound ranges like having the hearing of a canine, so I got the nickname Echo. My friends would tease me, but I knew I could use it for good someday. Army Ranger school was no joke, but I did it, one of a handful of women earning my commission and an assignment in the Military Police. After several tours of duty and over a hundred missions, I returned home and started the "Echo" LeBlanc Private Detective Agency.The transition from military to civilian life was tough, but starting my agency gave ...

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The Best New Mystery Short Stories

There’s nothing quite like sitting down to read a good mystery short story. From the first line, we’re already putting on our detective hats and trying to figure things out. Together with the protagonists, we suss out clues, consider the evidence, and take a hard look at each of the suspects and their alibis.

But whether you work out the solution yourself or are thrown by a convincing red herring, the adventure, thrill, and suspense of a mystery is its own reward. Where else can you get a story with so many twists, turns, and surprises?

Uncover the latest mystery short stories

Short stories have been keeping mystery fans satiated for decades. From new Sherlock Holmes adventures in The Strand to Megan Abbott’s thrilling crime stories, mysteries have a proud tradition of packing tons of adventure into a small space. And, just like the ingenious crimes they solve, such a feat will leave readers marveling at how these authors managed it.

The mystery stories you’ll find here are provided by the ever-growing community of writers who participate in Reedsy’s weekly short story contest . Shortlisted and winning stories appear at the top of the page, so you don’t need to hunt for the best of the best. With so many emerging writers submitting to Reedsy, you never know when you’ll stumble across mystery’s next Conan Doyle! And if you'd like to read the best of the best entries from across 40+ genres, be sure to check out Prompted , our new literary magazine — there's a free copy waiting for you.

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The Legacy and Mystery Surrounding Kurt Cobain’s Untimely Suicide

This essay about the legacy and mysterious circumstances surrounding Kurt Cobain’s death explores the lasting impact of the iconic musician’s life and untimely passing. Despite his influence on music and culture, questions persist regarding the events leading up to his suicide, with discrepancies in evidence and theories of foul play fueling ongoing speculation. The essay delves into the complexities of Cobain’s struggles with addiction, depression, and fame, as well as the enduring interest in his life and music. While the exact details of his death may remain uncertain, Cobain’s legacy as a cultural icon and the lessons learned from his life continue to resonate with fans and observers alike.

How it works

On April 5, 1994, the world lost one of its most influential musicians, Kurt Cobain, the lead singer, and guitarist of the iconic band Nirvana. At the age of 27, Cobain’s tragic death shocked his fans and the music industry alike, leaving behind a legacy that continues to resonate decades later. While his impact on music and culture remains undeniable, the circumstances surrounding his passing have sparked intrigue, speculation, and controversy.

Cobain’s death was officially ruled as suicide by a self-inflicted gunshot wound, with his body discovered at his home in Seattle, Washington.

However, the events leading up to his death and the subsequent investigation have led to persistent questions and conspiracy theories. Some believe that Cobain’s struggles with addiction, depression, and the pressures of fame ultimately led him to take his own life. Others suggest foul play, pointing to inconsistencies in the evidence and raising doubts about the official narrative.

One of the enduring mysteries surrounding Cobain’s death is the presence of high levels of heroin and traces of diazepam, a tranquilizer, in his system at the time of his passing. These findings have fueled speculation about the role of drugs in his death and raised questions about whether he was in a clear state of mind when he died. Additionally, there have been discrepancies in the handling of the investigation, including allegations of mishandled evidence and conflicting witness testimonies, further adding to the uncertainty surrounding the case.

Despite the passage of time, interest in Cobain’s life and death remains strong, with documentaries, books, and articles continuing to explore his legacy and the circumstances surrounding his untimely demise. His music continues to inspire new generations of artists, and his influence on popular culture endures, cementing his status as a cultural icon. However, the questions surrounding his death serve as a reminder of the complexities of mental health, addiction, and the pressures of fame, sparking important conversations about these issues.

In the end, the exact circumstances of Kurt Cobain’s death may never be fully resolved, and the debate surrounding it will likely continue for years to come. What remains undeniable, however, is the lasting impact he had on music and popular culture, as well as the tragic loss felt by his family, friends, and fans around the world. As we reflect on his life and legacy, let us remember Kurt Cobain not only for his music but also for the complexities of his humanity, and the lessons we can learn from his struggles and his art.

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70+ Mystery Writing Prompts & Story Ideas
January 26, 2022. From whodunits to unsolved crimes, here are over 70 mystery writing prompts that will keep your readers hooked from beginning to end. The mystery genre is all about gathering clues and evidence to solve a crime or mystery of some sort. Common mysteries to solve may include murder, kidnappings, theft and any other unsolved crimes.
Best Mystery Writing Prompts of 2023
3) Procedurals. Distinguished by their very in-depth explanation of how a mystery was solved. Fine details will be explored, and the drama often culminates in a courtroom, with a judge and jury deciding whether the suspect is innocent or guilty. To get you started, here are our top ten mystery writing prompts: A crime's been committed, and ...
69+ Mystery Story Ideas To Keep Your Audience Guessing Until the End
murder mystery story ideas. 1. The best friend of a murder victim is the prime suspect, but evidence starts to disappear into thin air as the murder investigation progresses. 2. A renowned magician is found dead after a performance, and it's up to the detective to determine whether it was an accident or murder. 3.
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Mystery Story Ideas. 1. A woman asks a writer to write the story of her life. Then she goes missing. 2. Murder victims are found buried with some of their wordly goods, Viking style. 3. Three people close to the murder victim have confessed. Each of them swears they acted alone.
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You know better than anyone the prompts that speak to you louder than others. If you get a chill as you're developing the idea, chances are good, your reader will, too. 1. You're a memoir writer with a complicated love life. An estranged cousin calls asking if you'll help her write a "tell-all" memoir.
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This curated list of 55+ crime writing prompts is a goldmine designed to unleash your creative prowess across the mystery genre. From the eerie silence of a murder scene to the heart-pounding chase of a seasoned detective, these prompts offer a labyrinth of possibilities. Dive into the world of cozy mystery writing, navigate the gritty streets ...
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In today's article, we will focus on 67 mystery writing prompt for adults. As always, these writing prompts are meant to inspire your creativity. Please feel free to use any of these writing prompts as you wish. Remember that writing prompts are only the seed to a potentially great story.
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10 More Murder Mystery Story Ideas. 16. Defense attorney Bob Larson enjoys his job. He likes justice; he likes being right. Usually, he thinks right and wrong are really easy to spot. Then he ends up representing a young Navy Seal who shot and killed an elderly woman—and claims it was in self-defense.
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Over 1 million authors trust the professionals on Reedsy. Come meet them. Prepare to kick your writing into gear by browsing through our list of 200+ Mystery / Thriller short story ideas. New prompts are added each week, and you can search by genre.
Incredible Mystery Story Ideas: 65 Creative Mystery Writing Prompts
Historical Story Ideas and writing prompts. The following prompts include mysteries in the ancient world. As the head archaeologist on the dig, you get the honor of opening up the sarcophagus. What a surprise it is to find a cell phone in a thousand-year-old tomb. An ancient artifact arrives at the museum you work at.
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Thriller and Suspense - 27 stories. Write a story about a monster trying to become more human. Or about a human trying to become more monstrous. Thriller and Suspense - 60 stories. Set your story in a world where everyone's decisions are made for them. One morning, your character wakes up, and chooses not to go to work.
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30 Mystery Writing Prompts for Inspiration. Great Mystery Writing Prompts— Oh yeah, Mystery writing is a fabulous genre that requires loads of creativity and imagination. And, it's perfect for writers of all ages. From spooky ghost stories near Halloween to in-depth murder mysteries that can unfold before the reader's eyes….
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10 Murder Mystery Plot Ideas. Werewolf Suspect: In a small town, the sheriff looks into the homicide of a local woman and starts suspecting that the murderer could be a werewolf. Vanishing Killer: A detective is on the trail of a serial killer who appears to vanish without a trace after each crime.
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Focus on a specific event or detail to make your narrative more focused and impactful. Look for universal themes like love or personal transformation that connect with readers on a deeper level. Brainstorm ideas and write freely to uncover compelling topics. Decide on storytelling techniques like flashbacks or foreshadowing and choose a topic ...
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Topics for narrative essays can range from the important to the trivial. Usually the point is not so much the story itself, but the way you tell it. A narrative essay is a way of testing your ability to tell a story in a clear and interesting way. You're expected to think about where your story begins and ends, and how to convey it with eye ...
75 Murder Mystery Story Ideas To Create Your Next Story
14. The Carnival Curse: After a string of murders at a traveling carnival, the main character, a former police detective turned carny, must solve the mystery before the killer strikes again. 15. The Sleepwalking Slayer: A woman wakes up at various murder scenes with no memory of how she got there.
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Easy Narrative Essay Topics. A Walk on the Wild Side: Life Among Wolves. Unlocking the Past: Unearthed Mysteries of the Pyramids. The Dance of Dragons: Coexisting With Mythical Creatures. Braving the Apocalypse: Survival in a Post-nuclear World. Life's Canvas: The Power of Tattoos and Their Stories.
100 Narrative Essay Topics
The list of 100 narrative essay topics that we've compiled is a versatile and expansive set designed to inspire students at various educational levels. The topics range from lighter, more relatable experiences like your "first job interview" or "a memorable birthday party," to deeper, more introspective themes such as "an experience ...
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Narrative Essay Topics for Grade 5. My First Day at a New School. The Time I Learned to Ride a Bike. A Visit to a Haunted House. The Day I Met a Real-Life Superhero. My Most Memorable Family Vacation. A Surprising Encounter with an Animal. The Mystery of the Missing Homework. The Best Birthday Party I Ever Had.
Narrative Essay Topics and Story Ideas
Narrative essays are truly works of art, and good artists must practice their craft. Here is a list of 101 narrative essay topics, prompts, and short story ideas to give students the practice that they need to become better writers: Everybody gets afraid sometimes. If there were no fear, there would be no opportunity for bravery.
A Complete Narrative Essay Guide
Purpose: Reach the peak of the story, the moment of highest tension or significance. Elements: Turning Point: Highlight the most crucial moment or realization in the narrative. Example: "As the sun dipped below the horizon and hope seemed lost, a distant sound caught our attention—the rescue team's helicopters.".
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A good narrative essay will begin with an attention-grabbing opening line. But make sure to avoid common clichés, such as "It was the best of times, it was the worst of times.". Instead, come up with something original and specific to you and your situation. For example: "My pre-calc teacher was obsessed with circles.
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Here are evergreen narrative essay ideas. A serene day by the beach. The pain of living in a crime-prone neighborhood. My favorite high school moment. A visit to a haunted house. The wedding celebration that never happened. My perfect winter experience. My favorite summer hobby. A visit to my favorite museum.
The Final Days of Marco Polo: Mystery of his Death
Order now. After spending nearly two decades in the service of the Mongol Empire, Marco returned to Venice in 1295. He lived a relatively quiet life upon his return, involving himself in the family business and sharing his extraordinary experiences. The most reliable accounts suggest that Marco Polo died on January 8, 1324.
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Submitted to Contest #250. "...and lower your head." You tilt your head instead. After all, she isn't talking to you. You gaze over at the two kneeling strangers. Their heads are indeed lowered and their hands are on their knees. The one who reminded the other to "lower your head" is a woman or perhaps just a girl.
The Legacy and Mystery Surrounding Kurt Cobain's Untimely Suicide
Essay Example: On April 5, 1994, the world lost one of its most influential musicians, Kurt Cobain, the lead singer, and guitarist of the iconic band Nirvana. At the age of 27, Cobain's tragic death shocked his fans and the music industry alike, leaving behind a legacy that continues to resonate

70 Mystery Writing Prompts That’ll Keep Your Readers Hooked

70 Mystery Writing Prompts

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Key Takeaways

10 Mystery Story Ideas

10 Murder Mystery Plot Ideas

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10 Crime Fiction Ideas

10 Murder Victim Mystery Writing Prompts

10 Murder Weapon Ideas

10 Investigative Agencies

10 False Clue Ideas

10 Ideas for False Witnesses

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Multifaceted Characters

Gratifying Conclusion

What Are Some Good Mystery Genre Topics to Write About?

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Step 2: Concoct an Ingenious Offense

Step 3: Incorporate Deceptive Red Herrings

What Contributes to an Effective Clue in a Mystery?

The Importance of Clue Placement

Subtlety: A Crucial Element

Focusing on Crucial Details

How to Create a Mysterious Character

Describing Their Look

Finding a Voice for Your Character