checklist for creating a fictional world in the genre of science fiction and dystopia

Setting

Determine the time period and location of your fictional world

Define the overall atmosphere and mood of the world (e.g., bleak, oppressive, technological)

Create a history for your world, including any major events or conflicts that shaped its current state

Establish the political and social systems in place, including any governing bodies or factions

Describe the geography, climate, and landscapes of your world

Consider the technological advancements and limitations that exist in this society

Develop the rules of science and physics that apply in your world

Characters

Identify the main protagonist(s) and antagonist(s) of your story

Give each character a backstory, including their motivations and goals

Establish the relationships between characters, including friendships, alliances, and rivalries

Determine the roles and occupations of individuals in this society

Consider the impact of the world's conditions on your characters' physical and mental states

Consider the differences in culture, language, and race among characters

Develop the personalities and traits of each character

Establish the physical characteristics of each character

Decide on any supernatural elements or abilities possessed by characters

Establish the timeline of events leading up to the story

Consider how a character's past experiences will shape their current actions

Society

Define the social hierarchy and class system present in your world

Establish the societal norms, values, and expectations of behavior

Consider the role of technology and science in shaping society

Identify any cultural or religious beliefs that are prevalent

Determine the level of surveillance and control exerted by the government or ruling powers

Explore the impact of any societal divisions or conflicts on your characters and plot

Analyze how gender, race, and sexuality are represented and treated in this world

Examine the characters’ relationships to one another and how they might differ based on their societal background

Determine the level of access to resources and education in this society

Assess the level of economic disparity and inequality present in this world

Research any historical or geopolitical events that have shaped the society

Technology and Science

Invent advanced technologies that exist in your world, focusing on their purpose and functionality

Determine the limitations and consequences of these technologies

Consider the ethical dilemmas and moral implications associated with scientific advancements

Decide how these technologies have affected daily life, communication, and transportation

Explore any genetic or cybernetic enhancements that may exist

Establish the laws of physics and science that govern your world

Examine the scientific and technological history of the world

Research existing and potential applications of science and technology in your world

Explore the ways in which scientific progress has created or influenced the society

Conflict and Plot

Identify the central conflict or problem that drives your story

Develop subplots and secondary conflicts that complement the main storyline

Outline the major plot points and key events that occur throughout the narrative

Consider any twists, surprises, or dramatic reveals you want to incorporate

Determine the resolution or outcome of the conflict, including any potential sequels or series

Visuals and Aesthetics

Imagine the visual style and aesthetics of your world, including architecture, fashion, and art

Consider the color palette, lighting, and overall visual atmosphere

Determine the fashion trends and clothing styles in this society

Visualize the technology and futuristic elements in your world

Create visual references or concept art to help visualize the world

Imagine the sounds, smells, and other sensory experiences of the world

Determine the levels of development and resources available in the world

Think of the natural elements, such as flora and fauna, and how they interact with the environment

Research the latest advancements in science and technology, and how they might be used in the world

Brainstorm ways to make your world unique and visually exciting

Research and Inspiration

Conduct research on real-world scientific advancements, dystopian literature, or other relevant sources

Seek inspiration from existing science fiction and dystopian works

Explore current social and political issues that could influence your world-building

Consider how historical events or cultural influences could shape your world

Brainstorm ideas for creating a unique and interesting setting

Review relevant periodicals and news articles for potential plot ideas and developments

Research breakthroughs in medical technology, robotics, artificial intelligence, and other fields

Analyze scientific theories on other planets, space travel, and alternate universes

Investigate potential sources of conflict within a futuristic society

Consistency and Continuity

Ensure that all elements of your world are consistent and coherent

Keep track of important details, such as character traits, world rules, and plot developments

Regularly review and revise your checklist to address any inconsistencies or gaps in your world-building

Establish rules for your world and stick to them

Cross-reference characters, plot elements, and other elements of your world to ensure consistency

Create a timeline of events in your world to better understand its history and the consequences of decisions

Check for any inconsistencies in the language, terminology, or culture of the world

Ensure that any changes to your world are reflected in its future events and consequences

Feedback and Revisions

Share your world-building checklist with beta readers, fellow writers, or trusted friends

Seek feedback on the strengths and weaknesses of your fictional world

Make necessary revisions and adjustments based on feedback received

Continuously refine and improve your world-building as you progress in your writing journey.

Brainstorm solutions for any plot holes or inconsistencies

Rewrite sections of your story that need to be better fleshed out

Re-examine your characters’ motivations and goals

Research any new elements that need to be included in your world

Analyze the flow of the story and determine if it is engaging

Consider any plot elements that could be removed or added

Test out any new ideas in a sandbox environment