i don't really remember where i come up with my ideas... it is usually that i come up with a single scene and then base my whole idea around that... the only problem is i have so many ideas now and not enough time to write them all at the same time! I usually end up writing the first chapter to get it out of my brain then setting it aside for later!
i would say just start writing a short story and see where that leads you.
There's an interesting approach to stimulate the brain. You might have original ideas that just need a little nudge to "awaken" haha ...
It's something called free-writing. You get a piece of paper then time yourself and, constantly keeping pen to paper, write anything that comes to mind even if it's about nothing (which I doubt).
Or sometimes, leave the story for a time and one day, the great idea might just come to you.
if you really want to try, try having stories that every person could relate to. like school or jobs or love. you could also make up stories and do biographies but just change the names of the characters that's all thank you.
I get a name, for a character, and then I create a profile on that person, and that shall be my main character, and then I do the same for another person, and then you can perhaps create a conflict, or describe a landscape, or their situation within life, and from there you can go on to add or take away things as you wish
I use character analysis sheets and a g.o.t.e. sheet. As well as story development worksheets. It seems to work for me when I'm stuck or I just want to elaborate and it really helps you get to know your characters.
well, plan character's physical appearances and traits and all that
make sure you know all about the setting etc.
basically, plan out settings, as for teh plot and all that, usually i just let it come to me.
sometimes i'm inspired by the people around me, a dream and something. .. . .
movies etc. etc.