Everybody has that one TV series, or movie, or book, or even video game, that they love half to death. Some people even have more than one (me, for instance). And I’m sure all of us have had those ideas pop into our head—those brilliant, “what if?” ideas. “What if Jack Sparrow met a rich girl with an attitude who wants to be a pirate?” Or maybe, “What if a new transfer student from America came to Hogwarts and fell for Harry?” Or perhaps, “What if Voldemort had a daughter?”

Before you start writing—stop. Think about what you’re writing, and what your intention is. Is this just something that you’re writing for yourself or your friends—something that will go into your binder so you can pull it out and laugh over it every once in a while? If that’s the case, go right ahead. There’s nothing wrong with a bit of “wish fulfillment” (more on that later). But if you want to put your story on the internet for millions to see—if you want to get great reviews and lots of fan mail—if you want to have a truly original story and a well-rounded original character—then I suggest you take my advice, and think. About. What. You. Are. Writing.

If you are new to writing, or if you are a very young writer, then chances are, you are writing a Mary-Sue. Who knows? I could be totally wrong. Your story could be the most wonderful, engaging story ever written, with lovely characters and all. But you may want to hear what I have to say... just incase.