How to Write an Original AU

This is a page for general information, tips, and tricks that should help Users, new and old, write quality AUs. Note that before reading this page, it is best to read the Rules/Character Guidelines and General Rules pages first, as this page merely details suggestions for writing. We also suggest checking out the What Not to Do Category of articles for examples of what to avoid.

Step One: Conceptualizing
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Step Two: Page Formatting
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Step Three: Content
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Tips on Content and Expanding a Page
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Tips on Uniqueness and Making an AU Interesting
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Tips on Applying OCs and Canon Characters
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Tips on Plot and Locations
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How to Avoid Cliches
NOTE: This section should be edited to answer all questions in the comments.

Avoiding cliches can get slightly tricky after a few tries, but one or two cliches will not hurt. A few common cliches have been ranked on a "Cringe Factor". The higher the cringe factor, the worse it is. Some cliches paired with others, is a cliche itself, and awards bonus points. (Edit if needed.) There may be a way to avoid this cliche, aswell.