Examples of Writing Prompts

Below are the examples of writing prompts generated for science fiction, fantasy, mystery, romance and horror

Prompt Artist
9 min readFeb 20, 2024

This is a part of the full article Writing Prompts: Ignite Your Creativity Across Genres with Engaging Writing Prompts

Below are the examples of writing prompts generated for science fiction, fantasy, mystery, romance and horror, using Writing Prompts Generator (I engineered for ChatGPT 3.5 and 4).

You can in fact use the generator to create any writing prompt of your favorite genre or use it to explore a variety of writing topics, characters, themes — just about any writing idea you can imagine.

The writing prompt generator used to create the below prompts is available below

Also Available on Gumroad

Science Fiction Writing Prompt Example

Customizable Input Variables used to create this science fiction writing prompt

[Customizable Input Variables]:

  1. [Type of Writing Prompt]: Descriptive
  2. [Genre/Topic]: Science Fiction with extraterrestrial life forms and their interactions with humanity
  3. [Setting]: __________
  4. [Additional Customization]:
    — Include a specific character or type of character (Specify): __________
    — Add a twist or unexpected element (Specify): Sixth Sense
    — Set a mood or tone (Specify): __________
    — Specify a conflict or challenge: __________

ChatGPT 3.5 Output: Generated Writing Prompt using the Writing Prompts Generator with the above Input Variables.

Note that the writing prompt generator auto suggests input variables that I left out above.

Type of Writing Prompt: Descriptive

Genre/Topic: Science Fiction with extraterrestrial life forms and their interactions with humanity

Setting: A bustling metropolis in the year 2150, where towering skyscrapers pierce the clouds, and advanced technology intertwines with everyday life.

Additional Customization:
- Include a specific character or type of character (Specify): Dr. Aria Chen, a renowned xenobiologist leading Earth’s efforts in understanding alien species.
- Add a twist or unexpected element (Specify): Sixth Sense — Dr. Chen discovers that she has the ability to communicate telepathically with the extraterrestrial beings.
- Set a mood or tone (Specify): Intriguing and mysterious.
- Specify a conflict or challenge: Dr. Chen must navigate the delicate balance between revealing her newfound ability and maintaining trust with her colleagues while deciphering the intentions of the enigmatic alien visitors.

Generated Prompt:

Title: Echoes Across the Cosmos

In the bustling metropolis of Neo-Terra, where the hum of hovercars fills the air and holographic billboards light up the sky, Dr. Aria Chen, a renowned xenobiologist, stands at the forefront of humanity’s quest to understand the enigmatic extraterrestrial life forms that have made contact with Earth. As she delves deeper into her research, Dr. Chen makes a startling discovery — she possesses a Sixth Sense, an innate ability to communicate telepathically with the alien beings.

Armed with this newfound gift, Dr. Chen’s interactions with the extraterrestrial visitors take on a whole new dimension. Yet, as she grapples with the implications of her abilities, she faces a daunting challenge: how can she unravel the mysteries of the alien species while keeping her newfound power hidden from her colleagues and the prying eyes of those who may seek to exploit it for their own gain?

Caught between her desire to forge a meaningful connection with the extraterrestrial visitors and the need to protect herself and her research, Dr. Chen navigates a labyrinth of secrets and intrigue. As tensions between humanity and the alien visitors escalate, she must tread carefully, for the fate of both worlds hangs in the balance.

Will Dr. Chen unlock the secrets of the cosmos, or will the shadows of deception and mistrust tear apart the fragile bond between Earth and its extraterrestrial neighbors?

Fantasy: Example of Writing Prompt for Fantasy Genre

Customizable Input Variables used to create this science fiction writing prompt

[Customizable Input Variables]:

1. [Type of Writing Prompt]: Narrative

2. [Genre/Topic]: Fantasy

3. [Setting]: Futuristic

4. [Additional Customization]:
— Include a specific character or type of character (Specify): __________
— Add a twist or unexpected element (Specify): Manipulating Genetics
— Set a mood or tone (Specify): __________
— Specify a conflict or challenge: Technological oppression

ChatGPT 3.5 Output: Generated Writing Prompt using the Writing Prompts Generator with the above Input Variables.

Type of Writing Prompt: Narrative

Genre/Topic: Fantasy

Setting: Futuristic

Additional Customization:
- Include a specific character or type of character: A genetic engineer struggling with ethical dilemmas
- Add a twist or unexpected element: Manipulating Genetics
- Set a mood or tone: Intriguing and Ethically Ambiguous
- Specify a conflict or challenge: Technological oppression

Generated Prompt:

Title: Chimeric Echoes: The Ethical Frontier

In a distant future where technological marvels and genetic manipulation have reshaped the fabric of society, follow the journey of Dr. Linnea Valerius, a brilliant genetic engineer torn between the allure of scientific progress and the weight of moral responsibility. Tasked with pushing the boundaries of genetic augmentation, Linnea grapples with the consequences of her creations as they blur the lines between human and machine.

Caught in the midst of a world gripped by technological oppression, where those with augmented enhancements hold dominion over the rest, Linnea faces a profound ethical dilemma. As whispers of rebellion stir among the oppressed, she must confront the true cost of her creations and decide where her allegiance truly lies.

Amidst the neon-lit streets of a city teetering on the edge of revolution, Linnea’s path intersects with that of a mysterious figure, harboring secrets that could shake the very foundation of society. Together, they embark on a journey that will challenge their beliefs, unravel the mysteries of genetic manipulation, and ultimately determine the fate of humanity’s evolution.

In this ethically ambiguous tale of science and conscience, explore the boundaries of humanity, the power of choice, and the ever-shifting line between progress and oppression. Will Linnea embrace her role as a harbinger of change, or will she succumb to the shadows of her own creation?

Mystery: Tailored Prompt for Mystery Writing

Customizable Input Variables Used

[Customizable Input Variables]:

1. [Type of Writing Prompt]: Persuasive

2. [Genre/Topic]: Mystery

3. [Setting]: A quaint small town

4. [Additional Customization]:

— Include a specific character or type of character (Specify): __________
— Add a twist or unexpected element (Specify): A perplexing crime
— Set a mood or tone (Specify): __________
— Specify a conflict or challenge: _________

ChatGPT 3.5 Output: Generated Writing Prompt using the Writing Prompts Generator with the above Input Variables.

Type of Writing Prompt: Persuasive

Genre/Topic: Mystery

Setting: Quaint small town

Additional Customization:
- Include a specific character or type of character (Specify): Eccentric retired detective
- Add a twist or unexpected element (Specify): a perplexing crime involving a stolen antique necklace
- Set a mood or tone (Specify): Intriguing and suspenseful
- Specify a conflict or challenge: The townsfolk distrust the retired detective, believing he’s past his prime, but he’s determined to prove them wrong.

Generated Prompt:

Title: The Curious Case of the Vanishing Heirloom: Persuading Doubtful Minds

In a quaint small town where secrets linger behind every cobblestone, a perplexing crime has shaken the community’s tranquility. An antique necklace, a cherished heirloom passed down for generations, has vanished without a trace. The town’s residents are thrown into a state of disarray, whispering suspicions and pointing fingers at one another.

Enter an unlikely hero, an eccentric retired detective with a reputation that precedes him. Though his sharp mind has aged like fine wine, the townsfolk doubt his abilities, dismissing him as a relic of the past. Yet, with a twinkle in his eye and a determination that refuses to waver, he embarks on a quest to unravel the mystery and restore faith in his once-celebrated name.

As suspicion festers and trust hangs by a fragile thread, the retired detective faces his greatest challenge yet: persuading the doubting minds of the townsfolk. With each clue unearthed and every twist in the investigation, he must craft a persuasive argument to convince them that his methods, though unorthodox, hold the key to solving the case.

But as time ticks away and tensions escalate, the line between truth and deception blurs, leaving our intrepid detective to navigate a web of lies and deceit. Will he succeed in unmasking the true culprit and reclaiming his lost honor, or will the shadows of doubt consume him whole?

In a tale woven with intrigue and suspense, the retired detective must not only solve the mystery but also persuade those who doubt him that sometimes, the greatest mysteries are solved by those deemed least likely to succeed.

Romance Writing Prompts to Fuel Your Passion

Customizable Input Variables Used

[Customizable Input Variables]:

1. [Type of Writing Prompt]: Emotional

2. [Genre/Topic]: Romance

3. [Setting]: Serene countryside

4. [Additional Customization]:

— Include a specific character or type of character (Specify): __________
— Add a twist or unexpected element (Specify): Unconventional story arcs
— Set a mood or tone (Specify): Historical
— Specify a conflict or challenge: External forces that threaten to keep lovers apart

ChatGPT 3.5 Output: Generated Writing Prompt using the Writing Prompts Generator with the above Input Variables.

Type of Writing Prompt: Emotional

Genre/Topic: Romance

Setting: Serene countryside

Additional Customization:
- Include a specific character or type of character (Specify): An artist struggling with societal expectations
- Add a twist or unexpected element (Specify): Unconventional story arcs
- Set a mood or tone (Specify): Historical
- Specify a conflict or challenge: External forces that threaten to keep lovers apart

Generated Prompt:

Title: Brushstrokes of Love

In the tranquil expanse of a historical countryside, amidst rolling hills and whispering winds, an artist, burdened by the weight of societal expectations, finds solace in the vibrant colors of his canvases. Set in an era where norms dictated one’s path, he discovers an unexpected muse — a free-spirited poetess who wanders the fields, her verses echoing the untamed spirit of the land.

Their love blossoms like the wildflowers that dot the landscape, yet external forces conspire to tear them apart. Whether it be the rigid constraints of class divides or the looming shadow of war, their union faces relentless challenges. As their hearts entwine amidst the strokes of his brush and the rhythm of her words, they must navigate an unconventional journey, defying conventions and societal barriers to claim their place in each other’s arms.

Explore the depths of their forbidden love, the clash between tradition and passion, as they fight against the currents of fate, striving to carve out a future where their souls can finally find peace together.

Horror Writing Prompt Example

Customizable Input Variables Used

[Customizable Input Variables]:

1. [Type of Writing Prompt]: Expository

2. [Genre/Topic]: Horror

3. [Setting]: Haunted Forest

4. [Additional Customization]:

— Include a specific character or type of character (Specify): __________
— Add a twist or unexpected element (Specify): _________
— Set a mood or tone (Specify): __________
— Specify a conflict or challenge: __________

ChatGPT 3.5 Output: Generated Writing Prompt using the Writing Prompts Generator with the above Input Variables.

Type of Writing Prompt: Expository

Genre/Topic: Horror

Setting: Haunted Forest

Additional Customization:
— Include a specific character or type of character: Paranormal Investigator
— Add a twist or unexpected element: The forest is sentient, manipulating the investigator’s perceptions
— Set a mood or tone: Eerie and foreboding
— Specify a conflict or challenge: The investigator must confront their own fears while unraveling the forest’s secrets

Generated Prompt:

Title: Whispers of the Sylvan Abyss

In the heart of the haunted forest lies a mystery waiting to be unveiled. As a seasoned Paranormal Investigator, you step cautiously into the dense undergrowth, your senses alert to the whispers of the ancient trees. But something is amiss. The forest itself seems to be alive, its branches reaching out like gnarled fingers to grasp at your sanity. Every step deeper into the woods plunges you into a realm of darkness and uncertainty.

Your task is clear, yet daunting: to uncover the truth hidden within these haunted woods. But as you delve deeper, the forest begins to play tricks on your mind. Shadows dance at the edge of your vision, and the very air seems to echo with malevolent laughter. The trees whisper secrets long forgotten, their voices a chilling reminder of the darkness that lurks within.

Amidst this eerie atmosphere, you must confront not only the supernatural forces that dwell within the forest but also the demons that haunt your own soul. Your greatest challenge lies not in the shadows that surround you, but in the darkness that resides within.

As you navigate the twisted paths of the haunted forest, trust no one, not even yourself. For in this realm of nightmares, reality itself is but a fragile illusion, and the true horrors lie waiting in the depths of the Sylvan Abyss.

About:

I specialize in curating prompts for marketing and communications, digital and social media, creative writing, and SEO optimization.

Whether you’re a professional, a business owner, or simply seeking to supercharge your productivity, these prompts will transform the way you work! 🌟✨. Swing by my little prompt corner for award winning ChatGPT prompts on a wide range of use cases (click below).

PromptArtist | ChatGPT Prompts

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Prompt Artist

Exploring the latest advancements in the world of AI prompts.