Controlling Idea

At the heart of every story is one single idea. This controlling idea informs your writing and keeps it pointed and honest. When the idea isn’t clear, the story isn’t clear.

Some writers have been known to have the message taped to their typewriter to make sure no word made it onto the page without going past the idea.

It’s not necessary to have the idea perfectly crystalised to begin writing. It is important to have it in mind when redrafting and to have it clear when the story or message is delivered. 

Is your controlling idea refined enough?