Text & chat prompt
Write a gripping short story opening
Write a gripping short story opening: a free, copy-paste prompt for ChatGPT, Gemini and Claude. Paste the prompt and replace each [BRACKETED] field with your own details.
The prompt
Write three different opening paragraphs for a short story. Genre: [GENRE] Main character: [CHARACTER] Setting: [SETTING] The tension: [CONFLICT] Each opening should start in the middle of the action, hint at a bigger mystery and avoid clichés such as waking up or describing the weather. After the three, tell me which one has the strongest hook and why.
Pro tip: Start as late in the scene as you can; jump in after the boring set-up.
How to use this prompt
- Open ChatGPT and start a new chat.
- Paste the prompt.
- Replace each [BRACKETED] field with your real details and paste in your own text where asked.
- Reply with follow-ups such as "make it shorter" or "make it sound more like me".
Prompt at a glance
- Category
- Text & chat
- Works with
- ChatGPT · Gemini · Claude
- Length
- 58 words
- Fields to fill in
- GENRE, CHARACTER, SETTING, CONFLICT
- Last updated
Frequently asked questions
Which AI tools work with this prompt?
It is written for ChatGPT, Gemini and Claude. Paste it into your preferred tool and adjust the wording if the result is off.
What do I need to fill in?
Replace these fields before you send it: GENRE, CHARACTER, SETTING, CONFLICT. Each field shows an example in the prompt.
Should I paste private information into the prompt?
Only what the task needs. Remove names, contact details and other sensitive data before pasting a resume or document into any AI tool.
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