A Story with Two Equally Good Exits
Write a tiny branching story where curiosity leads to two different endings.
Time: 30–60 minutes
Keep the story small enough to fit on one page. Neither choice needs to be the correct one.
What you need
- paper
- pen
Try this idea
- Write a three-sentence opening in which someone discovers something unexpected.
- Offer two specific choices, such as opening a parcel or reading the note beneath it.
- Write a short ending for each choice. Let each reveal a different detail about the discovery.
- Read both paths and check that each makes sense from the opening.
- Give the reader one final question to carry away, rather than adding more branches.
A smaller version
Make one choice with two one-sentence outcomes.
A good place to stop
An opening, two choices, and a one-sentence ending for each are enough.
Make it work for you
Dictate instead of handwriting if helpful. Plan with a simple fork-shaped diagram before writing.
Another way in
Ask a willing reader which path they would take, without calling either one a win.