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Story starter generator

The first line is done. What happens next?

Your story starter

Nobody in class remembered the boy who sat in the empty chair, except me.

Leave empty to use the ready-made ones. Nothing you type leaves your device.

Layout

Print as
Paper size

Colour

Processed in your browser. Nothing is uploaded.

How to generate a story starter

  1. 1

    Pick a type, or mix them all.

  2. 2

    Tap “Another story starter” until you find one you like, or type your own.

  3. 3

    Print it as a writing page with lines, a list, or cut-out cards.

  4. 4

    Download the PDF and start writing.

About the story starter generator

A blank page is the hardest part of writing. A story starter gives the first sentence, and with it a character, a setting or a problem: “The dragon was smaller than I expected, and very, very polite.” Students carry on from there.

Fifty original opening lines span adventure, mystery, fantasy, science fiction and everyday life.

Helping students continue the story

  • Ask: Who is telling the story? Where are they?
  • Plan a beginning, middle (a problem) and end (a solution).
  • Copy the starter as the first line, then keep the same tense.
  • Share endings: the same starter leads to very different stories.

More to explore

Find more in english worksheets. Everything is made on your device, and nothing is uploaded.

Frequently asked questions

Can students change the starter?

Of course. The starter is a springboard; changing names or details is part of making the story their own.

Are the prompts free to use in class?

Yes. All prompts were written for Atifo and are free to print and share with students.

What line spacing should I choose?

Wide lines with a dashed midline suit ages 5–7, medium suits 7–10, and narrow lines suit older students writing longer pieces.

Can I add my own prompts?

Yes. Type them in the box, one per line, and they replace the ready-made ones. Nothing you type leaves your device.

How do I print prompt cards?

Choose “Cards” to get eight prompts per page with dashed cutting lines. Print on card for a reusable prompt jar.