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# 1.1.1 Fact and fiction

Figure 1

Trying to write both fact and fiction can help you realise the relationship between the two.

## Activity 1.1 Can you tell fact from fiction?

1. Write a paragraph (50 to 100 words) containing one fact and three fictitious elements. You can write about yourself, about your interests, about history – about anything you like. Then try the reverse – write a paragraph containing three facts and one fictitious element.
2. Try this exercise with any other writers you know, and swap your paragraphs. Can you spot where the fictions are and where the facts are? Ask these questions:
   - Is there anything that distinguishes the fictitious elements?
   - Are there common elements that you and your fellow writers write about as ‘facts’?
   - Do any of these passages suggest stories to you?

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OpenLearn - Start writing fiction: characters and stories
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