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+--- Thread: Roleplay Search Guide (/showthread.php?tid=5)
Roleplay Search Guide - starshine - 05-04-2024
If you're new to roleplay or just new to searching for roleplay on forums, here's some tips and guidance for ways to format your searching thread. None of these things are required, it's just a springing off point if you might need it.
Thread Title Meta
There's certain things you can do to increase your chances of someone opening your thread. These matter less on a small forum, but it still can't hurt.
- Pairing: State explicitly what kinds of pairings you're looking for. If you're into MM, that's worth stating. If you're open to everything, say that!
- Fandom/OC: First, if you're only looking for Fandom or OC, you should say that. For fandom, it's also worth mentioning some of your fandoms, or if you only have one you're searching for, say that.
- LFG or 1x1: Whether you're looking for group roleplay or 1x1 will change who your audience is, and maybe change what kinds of responses you get.
- Vibes: Ideally, make your vibes somewhat clear with your title. Whether you're looking for devastating drama, light romance or comedy, or if you need a daily dose of plap plap to function, say that!
Some examples of banger titles:
- [MM/MF] Fine boypussy wares within | OC, 1x1
- [FF] Cool haunted house ghost hunter lesbian group
- [Any] Let's make our MCU dolls kiss - 1x1 or Group
Thread Contents
Now that you've drawn a potential partner or group members in, it's time to get into more details! Most people start with some information about their style, expectations and standards, and if a partner gets past that, then it's time to talk plot ideas. Some people do it the other way around. Personally, I find the first way to be best, but there's no "right" or "wrong" way to organize your thread.
Some good information to include that can affect if someone thinks you're a good match or not:
- Word Count: What is your average word count? Do you expect a certain word count from partners? Do you want them to mirror you (similar word count) or do you prefer a dynamic style (often described as "write what you need to" or "mirroring not required")?
- Response Frequency: How often do you respond? Do you have the same expectation from your partner/group? This can be anything from once a month to multiple times a day, so it's important to specify.
- Grammar Standards & Language: Some people care about novel-level grammar and spelling. Others only care that they can read and understand their partner/group, and for others, they don't even care about that and are content to ask for clarification. This can also vary if you can/will roleplay in multiple languages or are looking for practice!
- Style: Do you write in first person or third? Do you write past tense or present tense? Maybe you write in future perfect! To some, this matters. To others, it doesn't.
- Personal Information: All forum members must be at least 18 years of age, but some people might care if you're over 25 or under 22. Similarly, they might care about your timezone or your marginalized experiences. You are not obligated to say anything if you don't want to, but if you want to offer any personal information, this can affect your partnerships.
What about plot idea? Well, there's so many ways to do this, it can be difficult to really say, but generally, some idea of setting, pairing, and the direction of the story is helpful. Or, if you don't have specific plots, provide some themes or dynamics you enjoy, and you and your partner can build something together! Some people write short book blurb style plots, and others have multiple paragraphs. Some have ideas for just their own character and leave room for the other party to find how to fit into that. There's so many ways to do this! I encourage you to go ahead and try things, or check other threads for inspiration.