Terraforming studies

Building a world

When building a world the first thing you should consider is what kind of universe your world belongs to. Is it a science-fiction universe, with planets, solar systems and space travel; a fantasy landscape, with castles and kingdoms; a magical version of the real world, with witchcraft and wizardry? The decisions you make now will affect the shape and dimensions of your story.

Laying a foundation

Start with one building, or a section of a building - a house, flat or room. Ask yourself the following questions:

• Is it a large open space or a small cramped one?
• What are the walls and floors made of?
• What sort of furnishings does the room have?
• Are there any decorations or pieces of artwork?

Walking the bounds

Imagine leaving the building or room and walking outside into the street or corridor outside. Try to decide if this place will be a village, a town, a city, or some other environment in which your characters will live.

• What are the roads made of? Are they paved, cobbled, trodden earth, or some other substance?
• Is the place crowded and full of people or quiet and empty of life?
• If there are people, how are they dressed, what are they doing?
• What can you see, what can you smell? What's the impression you get of this place?