Do you name a story before or after you write it?

Question

in general, im sure it varies from story to story, but what do you feel more comfortable with? Do most people start with a tentative title, just to have something to call it, then as you progress find an appropriate title or even at the end take it from a quote or something?

Answer 1

Usually, I begin with a "working title." Sometimes I keep it, sometimes I change it. And, yes, sometimes I do take a line from the work and use that. There's no "rule." It's your work, do what makes you feel most comfortable. Also, you should be aware that once you've worked hard on a story your editor or publisher might suggest a more marketable title, if/when you are fortunate enough to become published. Good luck.

Answer 2

It took literally 12 years to give my first novel a title I really felt represented it well. Consequently, the titles for the other two books in the series took about 10 minutes. Some titles just jump out at you and work well. Others, as has been said here, outgrow your initial tentative title and require a new one.

I currently have a wonderful idea for a new series and have not even thought of a title yet.

Answer 3

For me, it depends on how the idea for the story comes to me. Sometimes I get a vivid image in my head so I can easily create a title around that image. Other times I have an image but there is nothing that stands out so I write and as the story evolves a tentative title might pop into my head from the action or certain details that have importance to the story.

Answer 4

Well, what I do normally is come up with a tentative title out of my outlines that I have. Then I write the story, and I tend to change it as I write, but everytime I change it I keep a list of what titles I've used. When I'm done I look at said list, and see if I like any of them, or if any will work. If so, I'll use that one. If not I'll come up with another, if I don't already have one worked out.

Answer 5

I think after. Stories evolve as they go and only when they are complete can you find the best title for the story. You might have a "working title," but don't feel like you have to stick to it, if the story makes a different turn.

Answer 6

sometimes i get a title in my head and the story develops from it. Other times i get the plot the the title.. A lot of my stories dont even have titles yet lol.

Answer 7

The one i'm currently working on has no title yet. But, I have two others I put on the backburner that do. Once I figured out the catalyst in one story, the title just made sense.

Answer 8

i think after. because if u name it before then u will have to change ur title a few times before u get the right one because ur story might change and be different than what u thought. hope i helped. =]]]

Answer 9

I'd say during is best. After you have really fleshed out the characters and know where the story is going.

Answer 10

If you have the entire story planned out in your head. Before.
If your going to write the story to whatever comes up in your head while your writing. After.