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As you may've noticed: I'm new here! I plan to test write some things(depending on how things work around here) and mostly get some experience and build connections through something I enjoy in my free time(reading and such). CYOA has sparked that special flare in my soul. However, I'm not too sure on what to expect and how to "start" here. Tips?

The best way to start is by reading the articles here. If you click on "help and info" you are redirected to a list of helpful articles written by long time veterans of the site and accomplished writers.

The forums are also a great place to start. If you want practice or feedback, post some short stories in the creative corner. If you have a question about the writing process, post in the writing workshop. People are pretty active, and always like offering helpful critique and suggestions.

Another important thing to do is to learn the various branching patterns available in choose your stories. If you go to the writing workshop, you'll see a pinned post by Endmaster containing a list of helpful writing resources. These range from everything including articles on branching patterns(how to write meaningful choices in a CYOA) to paint software. Good luck!

Why thank you, very old sport. I'll take those into mind and get to it, whenever possible. Also, since you've mentioned about veterans, what about this site's history? Is there any post that gives a comprehensive guide into the regular demographic and state of things, or is it destiny for one to unearth the past through their own?

Seems like a lovely place to be in

I would agree.

I highly recommend starting with the three following articles (recommended for all noobs to the site): Being a Respected CYStian & How to not be a fucking weirdo online & Beginner's Guide to chooseyourstory.com

Good guide, common sense that some unfortunately lack, and informative insight! I appreciate the suggestions, Anthrarux

Edit: Now that I look at it there's a mention of a Discord server. How do I enter it? Is there a link laying around?

You have do things to draw the positive attention of the mods and other movers and shakers on the site to earn an invite. Be cool, be productive, be positive, be patient and don't want it too bad.

Oh so it's merit based. Newcomers could flood things too. I see it, I see it. Thanks for filling me in.

It's more of a private server that happens to contain some long time members and a few mod pets. We don't let new people in often because it's been around since 2018 and there's a lot of accumulated personal info from some members, including pictures of their kids and the like. Also, just like keeping the forum alive, lol.


Anyway, welcome to the site! To start with I'd just suggest browsing some of the featured stories and getting an idea of what you like. There's no rush to actually write anything, people sometimes try to dive into a huge project as soon as they get here and end up biting off more than they can chew.

Ratings and even short comments are very appreciated by the authors and sometimes in short supply. CYOAs take a lot of effort compared to regular stories and your feedback is the only way they know somebody out there is reading.

I appreciate the clarification, but I don't think I'd be able to start out with anything huge to chew in a short time even if I wanted to! I don't know if it's served fine dining or casual dining, but I'll take my time to check the menu.

Welcome! Writing a good CYOA is the same as doing any good writing: read a bunch, imitate what works, and create a novel style from your inspirations. 

Got it!

Edit: Wrong reply. Fat fingered who to reply to

Welcome, old sport!

Seems like almost everyone else has covered the good stuff for you. 

You a big Gatsby fan?