A Story that revolves around a school

[Greninjaman]

I have decided to change gears from Action/Adventure across a vast world to more adventures in a magical school, akin to Harry Potter (might use that as a base). I have some ideas, but advice would be helpful.

What I have in mind is that there are several teachers:
A Potions Teacher
A Teacher that teaches offensive and defensive spells.

What other things do I need?

 

[Everhoid]

Well, I think you should first clarify what branches of magic there are, and then work down from there. For example, is magic classified based on what it does (eg. Transfiguration, Curses, Healing) or is it classified by an element (eg. Fire, Light, Plant)? Do students only study one branch of magic in depth, a la the Owl House, or do they study a little of each, like Harry Potter?

Is the school very isolated like Hogwarts, or is it more open with a full city surrounding it like Death Academy in the Soule Eater series. Also, is the entire school magical, or is a small group of students magical and attend a small class to learn their craft, like in Blue Exorcist. Are there dungeons, forests, or caves to explore? Do teachers encourage exploring these places or forbid it?

I think defining the school and world before making characters is the way to go, but that is also my opinion and not everyone agrees. If you have particular character concepts you want done, then you should include them from the get go.

 

[Greninjaman]

Well, I think you should first clarify what branches of magic there are, and then work down from there. For example, is magic classified based on what it does (eg. Transfiguration, Curses, Healing) or is it classified by an element (eg. Fire, Light, Plant)? Do students only study one branch of magic in depth, a la the Owl House, or do they study a little of each, like Harry Potter?

Is the school very isolated like Hogwarts, or is it more open with a full city surrounding it like Death Academy in the Soule Eater series. Also, is the entire school magical, or is a small group of students magical and attend a small class to learn their craft, like in Blue Exorcist. Are there dungeons, forests, or caves to explore? Do teachers encourage exploring these places or forbid it?

I think defining the school and world before making characters is the way to go, but that is also my opinion and not everyone agrees. If you have particular character concepts you want done, then you should include them from the get go.

Sorry for the late reply. These are all very good points. World-building is something that is not easy.

 

[Everhoid]

Sorry for the late reply. These are all very good points. World-building is something that is not easy.

Yes, its something I struggle with too.