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Tips for Writing Accurate Cities

Creating fictional cities can be a very fun, but daunting task for fiction writers. Not only do you need to create a world that feels real and 3D to your readers, but you have to make sure that the city fits into the rest of the story. But this article will help! This article will provide tips and tricks to help you create vibrant and accurate fictional cities for your stories. So, if you’re ready to get started, dive in and explore the world of fictional cities.

 

Research

Researching cities even when writing fictional cities is important because it helps create a more realistic and believable story. It allows you to build the world of your story by providing details such as geography, architecture, culture, and other elements that make up a city. Researching real-life cities also helps you to develop a unique setting for the story, which can help to draw your readers in and keep them engaged. Also, researching cities can provide a backdrop for your characters and their actions, creating a believable context for them to inhabit. Lastly, researching cities can help you as the writer to create a richer, more complex story that feels believable and authentic. For more tips on conducting research for a novel, press the button below.




Decide the Population and Demographics

It is important to decide on the population and demographics of your city in order to create a more believable and detailed setting. Knowing the population size and composition can be used to establish a realistic backdrop for your story. A city with a population of 2 million is going to have very different dynamics than a city with a population of just 10,000. For example, a character in a city with a large population may be more shy and isolated compared to a character in a city with a smaller population, where everyone is friends and knows each other. Plus, it's important to think about the makeup of your city. Adding diversity and different demographics to your city can bring a unique flavor to your narrative. As you create your fictional city, keep in mind the population and demographics that you choose to include, because they can be powerful tools to help you craft a vivid and believable setting! When writing a fictional story ask yourself these questions: What is the average age of residents in this city? What are the ethnicities of most residents in this city? Where is this city located? What is the average income of the residents in this city? You can use these details to create a very complex and diverse group of characters that enrich your story. Overall, deciding the population and demographics of your city is an important part of creating a vivid setting for your story.


Consider Elements of Cities

When writing about fictional cities, it is crucial to consider elements that are unique to larger cities. Elements that small towns don’t typically have can make a fictional city more interesting and believable. Corner stores are one example of something that cities have, while small towns often lack these convenient places to buy everyday items. Also, cities are known for their tall buildings, while most small towns have shorter buildings. Subway systems are also common in cities, but small towns rarely need a complex form of public transportation. Plus, cities are often extremely crowded. The crowds in cities can be overwhelming, but small towns often only have a fraction of the population of a city. Also, cities often have a lot more trash than small towns due to the larger population. Finally, cities are typically more expensive to live in than small towns due to the increased demand for housing. Incorporating these elements into your fictional city will help make a believable and compelling world that your readers will be eager to explore.


Determine the Transportation

Relating to the previous point, you should make sure to determine the transportation system in your city. The transportation system of a city affects the daily lives of all the citizens and can even impact how the city functions. Having an effective transportation system can help reduce traffic congestion, improve access to jobs and services, and promote economic development. Plus, a reliable transportation system can be used to create a sense of realism in your story. For example, a city with a modern, efficient train system can create a feeling of sophistication, while a city with old-fashioned trolleys can evoke a vintage atmosphere. By deciding the transportation system of your fictional city, you can create a more believable and detailed setting for your story.


Think About the Landscape

Considering the landscape and environment of your city can help to create a believable and immersive setting. The setting/environment of your city can be used to create a vibrant and unique atmosphere that sets the scene for your whole story and your characters. A city that has rolling hills, lush forests, and giant bogs will be much different than a city that is cold and snowy and set high in the mountains. Plus, the setting of your city can be used to highlight themes and symbols to create a sense of danger, mystery, or intrigue. For example, a city nestled in a dense forest with winding roads will have a different feel than a city set on a tropical beach. Overall, a well-crafted landscape can be used to give your reader a sense of the culture of your city and the environment.


Having a detailed and unique setting in your novel keeps readers engaged and sprouts imagination in your novel. Fictional cities are a great way to do so. Although it can be difficult to write a city, it isn't impossible. With these 5 tips, you are sure to craft a city that readers keep wanting to visit.

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