Writing mysteries well begins by choosing a sub-genre for writing, such as crime fiction or detective fiction.
"Murders in the Rue Morgue," Edgar Allan Poe's famous short story, is a great example of how to write a mystery, particularly a detective story.
Since the release of Poe's story, the mystery has become a popular genre, with a wide readership of males and females who span generations and nationalities indiscriminately.
While mystery as a genre has wide-spread appeal, writers may be more successful if they consider a more specific demographic.
Writing mysteries for kids is distinct from writing for adults.
Considering target audience's mental stage will increase the work's success.
In addition, consider how pop culture varies based on age and nationality.
For optimal success, use references and allusions to which your target audience will relate.
The most difficult of writing mysteries is getting started.
Once that hurdle is crossed, the flow becomes smoother and easier.
Begin from a broad framework and the general plot, filling it with believable characters whose actions and reactions to the extraordinary plot serve to define and redefine their character.
A novel that introduces the central plot and the characters right in the beginning is more interesting and better able to hook readers.
Chipping in bits of information, deepening the dilemma and bringing in the additional characters as the reader turns the pages is a perfect way to keep the readers hooked and bamboozling them.
A screenplay meant as a brainteaser provides the viewers more opportunity to put on their thinking caps while having an enjoyable time too.
Novels and screenplays where the hero solves a mystery by analyzing a series of clues to catch the culprit makes for a great story.
Most mystery writers express their creativity through short stories, poems, or books.
Writing mysteries is a genre that utilizes the author's mental prowess, writing skills, and imaginative powers to create a story where, most often, the protagonist solves a particular mystery.
There is nothing mysterious about writing mysteries; there is a long-established structure in which writers can express their creativity to create and solve enigmatic situations in an infinite number of scenarios.
What matters most is developing a clear and well-structured plot and strong characters.
When the general story has been created, the writer can proceed to infuse life into characters that will help to weave the story towards its premeditated end.
The writer must also choose a setting - time and location -- that will best suit the story and theme.
Rewriting the rough draft a few times is crucial to writing mysteries.
The more the mystery author rereads and rewrites his creation, the more flaws stick out.
Fixing any plot holes helps to create a slick, smooth story with no loopholes.
Writing a flawless and intriguing tale with no glaring loose-ends is the ultimate goal of mystery writers.
The writer should leave clues throughout the story to keep readers excited and guessing.
The villain and the hero/detective should be realistic and have strong personalities to bring credibility and interest.
Solving the bewildering problem is usually achieved by using natural science and deductive reasoning.