The Writer's Block - Winter 2026
How to Tell Your Story in the "Write" Order
By Kristina Newcomer
I began researching my family history long before the idea of writing stories was even a glimmer in my mind's eye. I didn't have a step-by-step plan or formal writing training; I just wrote about the information I discovered while filling in the branches on my family tree. Many such genealogical journeys begin like mine; unplanned or inspired by the unexpected passing of a parent or grandparent. Over the years, I've learned that it is helpful to have a plan to support my writing efforts. Here are a few helpful tips to make your writing projects smoother:
Make a quick outline for your project and collect the times you will need to fill out your story, such as photos, recorded images, family tree files, and documents. Make a timeline so that relevant dates and events aren't overlooked and keep a biographical sketch of the person you are writing close at hand.
Put together a narrative using the materials you have gathered and organized. Consider what you want to be the "main character" in your story. Will the story be written in the first or third person?
Write as you go. A first draft doesn't need to be polished. Just focus on putting the words on the page. You can always come back later and insert, move, or remove items as necessary. If you need some assistance, you can use Grammarly's AI tool to help with structure, but try to write using your own voice. In your final draft, be sure to include emotion, character, and pacing.
I hope that this helps you tell your story in the "write" order.