In the past I’ve mentioned that I prefer to write Character Led but I do want to develop my world building skills. I think the best way for me to do it, is to set my world up and work on it everyday until I know every nook and cranny by memory. Then allow my natural writing style to be unleashed.
I believe that where you feel unsure about the world and/or characters as the writer, it can come through in the writing. With that being said, I do think it’s important to leave some room for imagination. Just because I know every nook and cranny doesn’t mean I have to share every detail. I think that’s where skill comes in. When you learn to share just enough to keep the reader engaged.
I asked Gemini to make me a World Building Worksheet for Beginners. I wanted to share. Have Fun!
Worldbuilding Worksheet
Basic Information
- World Name:
- Genre: (Fantasy, Sci-Fi, Historical, etc.)
- Overall Tone: (Dark, Lighthearted, Serious, etc.)
Geography
- Landmasses: Size, shape, climate, resources
- Bodies of Water: Oceans, seas, rivers, lakes
- Terrain: Mountains, plains, forests, deserts, etc.
- Natural Disasters: Earthquakes, hurricanes, volcanic eruptions
- Magical Geography: (If applicable) Any magical properties or features of the land
Culture and Society
- Civilizations: Major cities, ruling powers, government structure
- Technology Level: (Primitive, Medieval, Modern, Futuristic)
- Economy: Currency, trade, resources
- Religion: Major deities, beliefs, rituals, holy places
- Social Structure: Classes, castes, gender roles
- Customs and Traditions: Holidays, ceremonies, etiquette
- Language(s): Common tongue, dialects, writing systems
Inhabitants
- Humanoid Races: Physical characteristics, cultures, relationships
- Non-Humanoid Races: Physical characteristics, cultures, relationships
- Magic Users: Types of magic, training, social status
- Technology Users: Levels of expertise, social status
History
- Creation Myth: How the world was formed
- Major Historical Events: Wars, revolutions, discoveries
- Time Periods: Eras, calendars
- Founding Myths: Origin stories of civilizations
Conflict and Plot
- Central Conflict: The main problem or challenge
- Antagonist(s): Opposing forces
- Protagonist(s): Main characters and their goals
- Potential Story Arcs: Possible plotlines
Additional Notes
- Unique Elements: What sets your world apart?
- Inspiration: Where did your ideas come from?
- Visuals: Sketches, maps, character designs
Remember: This worksheet is a starting point. Feel free to add or remove sections as needed. The most important thing is to have fun and let your imagination run wild!
Would you like to focus on a specific genre or aspect of worldbuilding?
Jayne.press 