Choose a story to tell and title it. Consider past experiences, loves, losses and gains. Let the title sum up the theme and content of the song, as well as the feeling that the song should ultimately relay.
Keep a journal to jot down ideas for lyrics. Write out the story in prose and underline the most heartfelt or enthusiastic phrases.
Write a line, or "hook," based on the underlined phrases. The hook line of a song is a very important element in the chorus, and it often catches the listener's ear first. Use the hook to capture the essence of the story or theme of the song.
Establish an initial tune for the song. Hum or sing the tune out loud. Play the tune on the guitar or piano, or ask a friend to play the tune and record it for later use.
Use a typical songwriting structure as a guide to write the lyrics: Verse-Verse-Chorus-Verse-Chorus-Bridge-Chorus. Let the verses tell the story of the song while the chorus takes a rhythmic detour to shed a different light on the greater implication of the story. Build the chorus around the hook.
Create a pre-chorus or "transitional bridge" that helps establish a smooth transition between the verse and the chorus through use of transitional harmonies.
Allow yourself to improvise when inspiration strikes. Be true to the initial impulse behind the song.
Listen to music that inspires you. Listen to some songs you love and note what about them "catches" you. Jot down any ideas for revision that come to mind.
Go back to your tune and touch it up to ensure that the song has the right sound and spirit.