As previously mentioned, a storyline is like a script for actors in a movie. A storyline functions as a guide to what you wish to accomplish during a session, or several hundred sessions of roleplaying. However, more times than not, certain parts will be edited, left out, or just plain changed to help move the plot along. Don't get frustrated if this happens to you! Be versatile, and learn to adapt to it.

Secondly, look at the situation you want to create, based on the types of characters you want to be involved. If you wish to have gigantic hairy trolls learning how to ballet dance, that’s fine, but consider the limitations that may create. Choose something that would be pertinent to the time, place, or character attributes. Also, always make sure to design the storyline to help characters change or grow by creating conflict, challenges, and even friendships. Ask yourself, what do I want to do or accomplish? Establish a basic plan, and begin to flesh it out by adding what you know has to be accomplished. Do you have to find a specific artifact, or thing? Do you have to meet someone who alters your life? Remember your high school English classes when you build the plot-there must be conflict, climax, and resolution to make a full story.

Next, be wary of trying to devise too much or too little of the storyline. Usually you know when you have a good balance if you have to improvise and change parts of a storyline to fit the scene, but you do not constantly have to do so either. Another downfall is making the plot too big to handle. If you are new to the concept of roleplaying, don’t get involved in a storyline that may take several years to act out fully. Instead, opt for smaller, less complex, and more flexible storylines that will allow you to explore the depths of your character. Understand that it is not the involvement in an excellent storyline that makes you a good roleplayer, but the extensiveness of the development behind the character.