I’m a writer. While this statement is sometimes up for debate in my head, I put words to paper, which words eventually become books, studies and, most recently, fiction. Therefore, I am a writer. But this isn’t about writers’ insecurities. Rather, it’s the first in a series about transitioning from non-fiction to fiction writing and about the blurred lines between the two.

It would easier to never attempt fiction. They say to write what you know, right? I know non-fiction. But these stories won’t go away. They knock on my brain like a persistent girl scout delivering pre-ordered cookies. I want those cookies. I really do. But the transition from non-fiction to fiction is scary.

Looking at fiction writing from a non-fiction perspective, I researched, outlined and listed the different skills and components of each type of writing. After brushing up on the foundational elements of fiction such as the hero’s journey, character arc, plotting, conflict, scene creation and dialogue, I realized there are three foundational truths about non-fiction equally applicable to fiction.

1. Writers Read and Research.

To write what you know, you have to know it. This means reading and research. Transitioning to fiction writing doesn’t eliminate books from my library. It adds books. In addition history, Biblical culture, conflict resolution and books on the human condition, I’ve added character development, evoking emotional and dialogue to my list. The topics are similar –the common desire of man to avoid change and conflict, as well as the resulting transformation overcoming conflict brings. The research is also similar. In both cases, you look for a truth that offers the reader hope.

2. Truth and Hope Prevail.

Ultimately, in both fiction and non-fiction writing, truth and hope prevail. This doesn’t mean the characters live happily ever after or an absolute solution is offered. Rather, in each, a truth is learned and hope is experienced. In fiction, the hero learns truth about his character – his strength – and overcomes the conflict, which, in most cases, lends itself to hope even in the face of death. In non-fiction, truth is proposed as a solution to an issue or facet of the human condition and hope is offered in the form of advice, direction or a challenge to look at something differently.

3. There’s got to be a Hook

That something is the hook. Non-fiction writing hinges on the very first paragraph. It draws in the reader, creating interest in the subject matter and hints at a reward for continuing to read. Fiction is no different. The first chapter and even paragraph do the same thing. The character, story and conflict draw the reader into the story, encouraging the reader to care about the hero. The inciting incident or conflict, albeit usually at the end of the first chapter, hints at the reward, the resolution of the conflict.

While different in many ways, the similarities between fiction and non-fiction should lessen the scary factor of transitioning to fiction writing.

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A city girl at Heart, Nick Kording is in love with Jesus, her family, friends, writing, NYC and love. As an author, ghostwriter and writing mentor, her goal is to write words that not only evoke emotion, but also incite change and action in the reader. Visit Nick at www.NickKording.com.