How to Write a STRONG FIRST CHAPTER: The Secret to Hooking Your Readers from the Very First Page

This is the secret to writing a strong first chapter of a novel. I learned this back in December and it changed the way I think about novel openings. In this video, I break down the basic structure of a strong first chapter, and then I walk you through an old draft of my book's first chapter, compare it to an older version, and explain why I decided to rewrite it.

Your first chapter has to contain FOUR things. First, it has to have a good first line. Second, you have to have a relevant point of entry. Third, you need to set up your inciting incident. Fourth, you need to include your inciting incident at the end of your first chapter.

Obviously, there are books out there that deviate from this structure, but writing a first chapter like this will ensure that you hit all the necessary beats and hook your readers into your story as fast as possible.

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[FTTPRO]

This gave me so much momentum. As a first-time writer, I keep second-guessing myself. Understanding what I did; either right or wrong, allows me to better expand and build ideas in future parts of my books. Thanks for your videos!

[Jessica-fyhw]

Always excited when you post a new video. Thank you for the valuable content!

[timwelch]

I reread my first two chapters and realized that my first chapter was more of a backstory, and my second chapter was more of a first one, which meant I had to change all my other chapters and it flows better now. so great advice.

[willaandrews]

I’m going to begin writing today or tomorrow so I’ll be sure to use these tips
Ok I’m definitely writing today, I randomly just got an idea that I’m really excited about

[arzabael]

What you said about the portal in chapter one is the kind of advice that’s not wrong because it will definitely work great to pull the reader in, but it’s not right as in it being necessary because I can’t think of any prominent urban fantasy examples of stories that bring that much of the full scope of the story into the first chapter. Like you have a hunger games example but I feel like the way you described the rule at first, the hunger games chapter one would have been more like she’s already entered the games and fighting by the end of chapter one. Just saying that’s what you seemed liked you were saying. As in that extreme. But then again like I was saying about how its not wrong advice, when it comes to the portal in the chapter example, you could have the portal discovery be in the first line and it still be a great place to start. So I know it’s all relative but you did seem like you were saying if the character is still living their mundane life at the beginning of chapter two something’s wrong. Which I think is a bit extreme!! ❤😊 I love your channel though I always have and it’s still a great video.

[nadcooray]

Omg! Your videos are really valuable!! And you truly deserve more listeners!!!! And also, a kind request to talk about the business side of self-publishing. Like marketing and other related things. I am a first time teen writer, and you have no idea how useful these videos are for me (especially when it’s for free!) ❤️❤️❤️

[BetterThanNada]

Wow, Claire! The difference between your old first chapter and your re-written first chapter is amazing! I'm getting so much from your videos. Please tell me how you made the transformation -- who or what helped you, most. No words can describe my gratitude. Cheers! -- Lynne :-)

[ryushogun]

I have concept, some rough character ideas, genre, elements, vibes. But I'm slow thinking of characters and they don't usually fit the story? I wanna read mystery (not murder ones) do you guys have recommendations?

[arzumardalieva]

I’m grateful 🙏🏻
Amazing!
Really good explanation and example!

[moviemelody]

I’m writing a Peter Pan retelling were my Hook and Peter Pan characters are brother’s living in Victorian London before getting kidnapped

*Question:* my first chapter takes place when Peter goes to the courthouse where Peter is being help after being arrested the previous day. How do I show their close (almost parental on my hook characters end) relationship despite them not interacting?

[briantellstales]

This is a comment to make you happy :) (Amazing video btw!)

[iosyntropy]

not kidding. i want to know what happened to max. i care alot about shilo. god i love books.

[michaelhunter]

Please stop creative cutting! Please. I can't tell you how silly and distracting this is. I just want to hear what you think. That's all. I don't need to be entertained beyond that.