Adult writing prompts are a great way to spark creativity and improve writing skills. Writing prompts for adults can be found in various genres and topics, such as drama, romance, thriller, horror, fantasy, and more. These prompts can help adult writers develop their skills, overcome writer’s block, or explore new genres and emotions. In this blog post, I will share with you 55 adult writing prompts and PDF to help boost your inspiration.
There are many resources available for those looking for adult writing prompts. Reedsy, for example, offers writing prompts on various topics, such as food, technology, family, people, life, and the universe. Joining a writing contest or exploring different genres with weekly prompts from Reedsy can help writers improve their craft.
Other websites, such as Authority Self-Publishing and Learn Squibler, also offer numerous writing prompts for adults. These prompts cover various topics, such as personal stories, fantasy, horror, and more. They can be used as daily writing prompts, journal prompts, or group activities to help writers unleash their creativity and improve their writing skills.
Getting Started with Adult Writing Prompts
Writing is an excellent way to express one’s thoughts and emotions. However, sometimes, it can be challenging to come up with ideas to write about. This is where writing prompts come in handy. Writing prompts are ideas or topics that can help writers get started with their writing. In this section, we will discuss the basics of adult writing prompts, finding your writing voice, and overcoming writer’s block.
Understanding the Basics
Writing prompts are a great way to kick-start your imagination and creativity. They can inspire you to write about things you may not have thought about before. Writing prompts can be anything from a single word to a complete sentence or a picture. They can be used to write stories, poems, or even journal entries.
When using writing prompts, it is essential to keep in mind that they are just a starting point. You can take the prompt in any direction you like. The idea is to use the prompt to get your creative juices flowing.
Finding Your Writing Voice
One of the most important things to consider when writing is finding your voice. Your writing voice is your unique style of writing. It is what sets you apart from other writers. To find your voice, you need to write regularly and experiment with different writing styles.
Daily writing prompts can help you find your writing voice. By writing every day, you can develop your writing skills and discover what kind of writing you enjoy the most. You can also try different writing prompts to see which ones inspire you the most.
Overcoming Writer’s Block
Writer’s block can be frustrating, but it is a common problem that many writers face. When you are struggling to come up with ideas, writing prompts can be a helpful tool. They can help you get started with your writing and overcome writer’s block.
If you are struggling with writer’s block, try using a writing prompt. You can also try free writing, which is writing without a specific topic or goal. The idea is to write whatever comes to mind without worrying about grammar or punctuation. This can help you get your creative juices flowing and overcome writer’s block.
Writing prompts are an excellent tool for writers of all levels. They can help you get started with your writing, find your writing voice, and overcome writer’s block. By using writing prompts regularly, you can improve your writing skills and develop your creativity.
65 Adult Writing Prompts: PDF Below
- Write about a character who discovers an old letter in a library book.
- Describe a day in the life of someone living in a dystopian society.
- Create a story involving a secret society and its unique rituals.
- Imagine a world where dreams can be recorded and replayed.
- Write a tale about a long-lost heir to a throne finding out their true identity.
- Develop a narrative about a character who can communicate with animals.
- Craft a story about a journey to find a mythical creature in modern times.
- Describe a character’s experience waking up with a new superpower.
- Write about two people meeting for the first time in an unusual location.
- Create a mystery involving a series of cryptic messages.
- Write a romance that begins with a missed connection.
- Imagine a character who must piece together their identity after amnesia.
- Develop a story about a heist in a futuristic setting.
- Craft a narrative about a character facing a moral dilemma.
- Describe a character’s struggle to overcome a personal limitation.
- Write about a reunion between estranged family members.
- Create a story where the protagonist is trapped in a time loop.
- Write a tale of survival in a post-apocalyptic world.
- Imagine a character who discovers they’re part of a prophecy.
- Develop a narrative about a character who invents a new technology.
- Craft a story about a magical artifact that affects its owner’s life.
- Describe a character’s journey to forgive someone who wronged them.
- Write about a character who starts a new life in a foreign country.
- Create a thriller involving a character being followed by an unknown entity.
- Write a comedy about a series of misunderstandings at a workplace.
- Imagine a character who must deal with the consequences of a lie.
- Develop a story about a character finding a message in a bottle.
- Craft a narrative about an unlikely friendship between two opposites.
- Describe a character’s quest to find a lost treasure.
- Write about a character who can see into the future but can’t change it.
- Create a story about a character facing their biggest fear.
- Write a tale about a character who is given a second chance at life.
- Imagine a world where certain emotions are outlawed.
- Develop a story about a character who creates a new identity online.
- Craft a narrative about a character who is the last of their kind.
- Describe a character’s experience during a historical event.
- Write about a character who has to make a difficult sacrifice.
- Create a story about a character who is a master of disguise.
- Write a romance that starts with a chance encounter on a train.
- Imagine a character who must save their town from a natural disaster.
- Develop a story about a character who has to break a family curse.
- Craft a narrative about a character who discovers a portal to another world.
- Describe a character’s struggle with an addiction.
- Write about a character who is a detective solving an unusual case.
- Create a story about a character who starts a revolution.
- Write a tale of a character who finds a mysterious map.
- Imagine a character who must navigate a political intrigue.
- Develop a story about a character who is a ghost trying to communicate with the living.
- Craft a narrative about a character who starts their own business.
- Describe a character’s experience being stranded in the wilderness.
- Write about a character who must choose between love and duty.
- Create a story about a character who is a vigilante by night.
- Write a comedy about a character who accidentally becomes famous.
- Imagine a character who is a chef with a secret ingredient.
- Develop a story about a character who can manipulate time.
- Craft a narrative about a character who starts a new life after winning the lottery.
- Describe a character’s experience in a witness protection program.
- Write about a character who is an artist with a unique vision.
- Create a story about a character who is a mediator between humans and supernatural beings.
- Write a tale about a character who must confront their clone.
- Imagine a character who is a scientist on the verge of a major discovery.
- Develop a story about a character who is a lawyer for unusual cases.
- Craft a narrative about a character who discovers an ancient civilization.
- Describe a character’s experience after they receive an unexpected inheritance.
- Write about a character who is a musician on a comeback tour.
- Create a story about a character who is a journalist uncovering a big scandal.
- Write a romance about two characters from rival families or factions.
Download the PDF: writing prompts for adults
Exploring Genres and Themes
Writing prompts can be an excellent way to explore different genres and themes. They can help writers break out of their comfort zones and explore new ideas. In this section, we will dive into some of the most popular genres and themes for adult writing prompts.
Diving into Fiction and Fantasy
Fiction and fantasy are among the most popular genres for writing prompts. They allow writers to create new worlds, characters, and stories. Some popular prompts in this genre include:
- Write a story about a character who discovers they have magical powers.
- Create a world where time travel is possible and write a story about a character who travels through time.
- Write a story about a character who wakes up one day with no memory of their past.
Crafting Romance and Mystery
Romance and mystery are two genres that can be combined or explored separately. They can be used to create stories that are both exciting and engaging. Some popular prompts in this genre include:
- Write a story about two characters who fall in love but are from different worlds.
- Create a mystery where the main character is a detective who must solve a crime.
- Write a story about a character who receives a mysterious letter that changes their life.
Adventuring through Science Fiction and Dystopia
Science fiction and dystopia are genres that explore the possibilities of the future. They can be used to create stories that are both thought-provoking and entertaining. Some popular prompts in this genre include:
- Write a story about a character who lives in a world where technology has taken over.
- Create a dystopian world where the government controls everything and write a story about a character who rebels against the system.
- Write a story about a character who wakes up in a world that has been destroyed by a natural disaster.
Character and Setting Development
Creating Compelling Characters
When it comes to writing fiction, creating compelling characters is essential. The characters in a story are the driving force behind the plot and the reason why readers become invested in the story. To create compelling characters, writers must consider their personalities, motivations, and flaws.
One effective way to develop characters is through the use of writing prompts. Fiction writing prompts can help writers explore different aspects of their characters and develop them further. For example, a prompt might ask the writer to imagine their character’s worst fear or to describe a traumatic experience from their past.
In addition to writing prompts, writers can also use character profiles to develop their characters. A character profile is a detailed description of a character’s personality, backstory, and motivations.
Building Imaginative Settings
In addition to compelling characters, imaginative settings can also make a story come to life. Whether it’s a fantasy world, an alien planet, or an alternate universe, the setting of a story can help transport readers to another place and time.
To create imaginative settings, writers must consider the details that make their world unique. This might include the geography, climate, culture, and history of the world they are creating. By developing a rich and detailed setting, writers can create a more immersive reading experience for their audience.
One way to develop a setting is through the use of setting prompts. These prompts can ask writers to describe the sights, sounds, and smells of a particular location or to imagine the history of a particular culture. By using prompts, writers can explore different aspects of their setting and develop it further.
Creating compelling characters and imaginative settings are essential elements of fiction writing. By using prompts and profiles, writers can develop their characters and settings in a more detailed and nuanced way, resulting in a more engaging and immersive reading experience for their audience.
Writing Techniques and Practices
Developing a Consistent Writing Routine
One of the most important aspects of becoming a successful writer is developing a consistent writing routine. This means setting aside a specific time each day to write, whether it’s for 30 minutes or several hours. It’s important to find a time that works best for the individual, whether it’s early in the morning or late at night.
To develop a consistent writing routine, it’s important to set achievable goals. This could be to write a certain number of words per day or to finish a chapter by the end of the week. It’s also important to eliminate distractions during this time, such as turning off the phone or finding a quiet space to write.
Mastering Short Stories and Novels
Writing short stories and novels require different techniques and practices. Short stories are typically more concise and focused, whereas novels require more in-depth character development and plot.
When writing short stories, it’s important to focus on a specific theme or idea. This could be a personal experience or a fictional scenario. It’s also important to create a strong opening and ending to capture the reader’s attention.
Novels, on the other hand, require more planning and organization. This includes creating an outline, developing characters, and creating a plot that keeps the reader engaged. It’s also important to maintain consistency throughout the novel, such as using the same tone and style of writing.
To master short stories and novels, it’s important to practice regularly and seek feedback from others. This could include joining a writing group or seeking feedback from friends and family. It’s also important to read other authors in the same genre to gain inspiration and ideas.
Developing a consistent writing routine and mastering short stories and novels are key techniques and practices for successful creative writing. By setting achievable goals and practicing regularly, individuals can improve their writing skills and create engaging and memorable stories.
Incorporating Elements of Surprise
Writing prompts can often be a fun and exciting way to stretch one’s creativity and explore new ideas. One way to make writing prompts more interesting is by incorporating elements of surprise into them. These elements can include plot twists, secrets, supernatural elements, and horror elements. In this section, we will explore how to incorporate these elements into adult writing prompts.
Introducing Plot Twists and Secrets
One way to incorporate elements of surprise into writing prompts is by introducing plot twists and secrets. This can be done by starting with a seemingly straightforward prompt and then adding a twist or secret element to it.
For example, a writing prompt could be “Write about a character who discovers a hidden room in their house.” To add a plot twist, the writer could reveal that the hidden room is actually a portal to another dimension. To add a secret element, the writer could reveal that the character’s family has been keeping the existence of the hidden room a secret for generations.
Utilizing Supernatural and Horror Elements
Another way to incorporate elements of surprise into writing prompts is by utilizing supernatural and horror elements. This can be done by starting with a prompt that is seemingly mundane and then adding a supernatural or horror element to it.
For example, a writing prompt could be “Write about a character who is lost in the woods.” To add a supernatural element, the writer could reveal that the character is being followed by a ghost. To add a horror element, the writer could reveal that the character is being hunted by a monster.
Incorporating elements of surprise into writing prompts can make them more interesting and engaging. By introducing plot twists and secrets, and utilizing supernatural and horror elements, writers can create prompts that challenge them to think outside the box and explore new ideas.
Personal Growth and Expression
Writing can be a powerful tool for personal growth and expression. It allows individuals to explore their thoughts, emotions, and experiences in a safe and private space. In this section, we will explore how writing can be used for mental health and well-being, as well as for expressing emotions and experiences.
Writing for Mental Health and Well-being
Writing can have a positive impact on mental health and well-being. It can help individuals process and cope with difficult emotions, reduce stress and anxiety, and promote feelings of joy and gratitude. Writing can also be a way to reflect on life experiences and gain a better understanding of oneself.
To use writing for mental health and well-being, individuals can try journaling, writing letters to themselves, or using writing prompts. Writing prompts can provide a starting point for exploration and self-reflection. Some prompts may focus on strength and advice, while others may encourage individuals to reflect on their life story and experiences.
Expressing Emotions and Experiences
Writing can also be a way to express emotions and experiences. It can allow individuals to share their thoughts and feelings in a creative and meaningful way. Writing can be a way to process and work through difficult emotions, as well as to celebrate moments of joy and gratitude.
To use writing for expression, individuals can try free writing or using specific prompts. Writing prompts may focus on emotions such as sadness, anger, or happiness, or they may encourage individuals to reflect on specific life experiences. Writing can be done alone or with others, and can be a way to connect with oneself and others.
Writing can be a powerful tool for personal growth and expression. By using writing for mental health and well-being, as well as for expressing emotions and experiences, individuals can gain a better understanding of themselves and their lives. Writing can promote feelings of joy, gratitude, and strength, while also allowing individuals to work through difficult emotions and experiences.
Creative Writing Projects and Collaboration
Starting a Writing Project
Starting a writing project can be an exciting adventure that requires tapping into one’s creative juices. Whether one is a seasoned author or just starting out, writing prompts can be a great way to jump-start a project. Many websites offer story starters, prompts, and exercises that can help inspire writers to create their own unique stories.
Some great resources for finding writing prompts include Reedsy, Learn Squibler, and Authority Self-Publishing. These websites offer a wide variety of prompts that can be used to spark the imagination and get the creative juices flowing.
Engaging with Other Writers and Artists
Collaboration is an excellent way to engage with other writers and artists. It can help an author to refine their ideas, gain new perspectives, and learn new skills. There are many ways to collaborate with other writers and artists, including joining writing groups, attending writing workshops, and participating in online forums.
One great way to collaborate with other writers is to start a writing project together. This can be done by finding other writers who share similar interests and goals and working together to create a story or blog post. Another way to collaborate is to work with artists to create illustrations or cover art for a writing project.
Collaboration and creative writing projects can be a great way for authors to expand their skills and create unique and exciting stories. By tapping into the creativity of others, authors can create works that are truly one-of-a-kind.
Publishing and Sharing Your Work
Navigating the Path to Publication
Publishing a book or a magazine article is a dream for many writers, but it can be a challenging process. To get started, writers should research publishers that specialize in their genre or topic. It’s important to read submission guidelines carefully and follow them closely to increase the chances of acceptance.
In addition to traditional publishing, self-publishing has become an increasingly popular option for writers. Platforms like Amazon’s Kindle Direct Publishing and Barnes & Noble’s Nook Press allow writers to publish their work independently and reach a wide audience. However, self-publishing requires a significant investment of time and money to ensure high-quality production and effective marketing.
Writing for Magazines and Blogs
Writing for magazines and blogs is an excellent way to gain exposure and build a following as a writer. Writers should research publications that align with their interests and develop a strong pitch that highlights their unique voice and perspective.
When submitting to magazines or blogs, writers should follow submission guidelines carefully and tailor their pitch to the publication’s audience and style. It’s also important to be persistent and patient, as it can take time to hear back from editors and secure publication.
In addition to traditional publications, writers can also consider submitting to online platforms like Medium or creating their own blog to share their writing with a wider audience. Sharing work on social media platforms like Twitter and Instagram can also help writers build a following and connect with readers.
Publishing and sharing work can be a challenging but rewarding process for writers. With careful research and persistence, writers can find success in traditional publishing, self-publishing, or writing for magazines and blogs.
Prompt Variations and Resources
When it comes to writing prompts, there are plenty of variations and resources available to help inspire creativity. Here are some ideas to get started:
Finding Daily and Fun Prompts
For those who want to write every day or just need a little nudge to get started, daily prompt resources are a great option. Websites like Reedsy and Learn Squibler offer lists of fun writing prompts for adults to help get the creative juices flowing. These prompts can range from silly and lighthearted to more serious and thought-provoking.
Another option is to use journal prompts, which are designed to help writers reflect on their thoughts and experiences. These prompts can be found in books or online resources and can help writers explore different topics and emotions.
Exploring Historical and Fictional Prompts
For those who want to delve deeper into history or explore alternate universes, historical and fictional prompts are a great option. These prompts can be based on a quote, historical event, or famous historical figure, or they can be completely made up.
One way to use historical prompts is to imagine what might have happened if a particular event had gone differently. For example, what if the American Revolution had failed, or what if JFK had never been assassinated? These prompts can be a fun way to explore alternate realities and think about how different choices could have changed the course of history.
Fictional prompts, on the other hand, can be used to explore different genres and styles of writing. These prompts can be based on a particular theme or setting, or they can be completely open-ended. For example, a prompt might ask writers to imagine a world where everyone has a superpower, or to write a story about a character who wakes up in a different body every day.
There are many different types of writing prompts available for adults, from daily prompts to historical and fictional prompts. By exploring these resources and trying out different prompts, writers can find new inspiration and develop their skills.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are some effective deep writing prompts for mature audiences?
There are several effective deep writing prompts for mature audiences that can help writers explore complex themes and emotions. Some examples include writing about a difficult decision, exploring the concept of regret, or examining a personal belief or value. Another effective approach is to write about a significant life event or experience, such as the loss of a loved one or a major career change.
Where can I find a comprehensive book of writing prompts tailored for adults?
There are many books available that offer comprehensive collections of writing prompts tailored specifically for adult writers. Some popular options include “The Writer’s Idea Book” by Jack Heffron, “642 Things to Write About” by San Francisco Writers’ Grotto, and “The Pocket Muse” by Monica Wood.
How can I access a collection of adult writing prompts in PDF format?
There are several websites that offer collections of writing prompts in PDF format that are tailored specifically for adult writers. Some popular options include WritersDigest.com, TheWritePractice.com, and Creative-Writing-Solutions.com.
Are there any humorous writing prompts that are suitable for an adult audience?
Yes, there are many humorous writing prompts that are suitable for adult writers. Some examples include writing about a ridiculous situation or scenario, exploring a quirky character or personality trait, or taking a humorous approach to a serious topic or issue.
Can you recommend some fantasy-themed writing prompts for adult writers?
Yes, there are many fantasy-themed writing prompts that can inspire adult writers. Some examples include writing about a magical creature or world, exploring a unique and imaginative setting, or creating a complex and compelling hero or villain.
What are some short story prompts that can inspire adult writers?
There are many short story prompts that can inspire adult writers, including writing about a moment of transformation or change, exploring a character’s inner thoughts and emotions, or creating a suspenseful or thrilling plot twist. Other effective approaches include writing about a unique or unusual setting, exploring a complex relationship or dynamic, or examining a personal belief or value.
