Beginnings: How to Start a Sci-Fi Story or Novel

How do you start a sci-fi story or novel?

This is a common question among aspiring science fiction writers, and with good reason. After all, you can’t reach the finish line until you take your first steps.

The truth is, you can start your science fiction story however you want, as long as it engages the reader.

Some sci-fi stories start after the climax and shift into flashback mode. Some follow the more traditional route: exposition, rising action, climax and resolution. Some start...