Researching Tips

Research is an essential part of writing. It helps create authenticity, allowing the reader to really experience the timeframe the story is set in. Even when writing fantasy, where the concept of “anything can happen”, it requires research to keep events/situations credible within aspects of the plot and characters. “Write what you know” is a great saying and it is true however it is the little things which create a setting for an environment to make it more realistic and these should be researched to ensure accuracy, even if it is speculative fiction.

Research can transform writing from being “good” to being “amazing”, creating a “wow” experience for the reader where they can almost taste the food, experience the smells and feel like they have both feet planted physically in the scene of the story.

The following are steps/guidelines to help with researching:

1. Carry out research even when you know what you are writing about

2. Research before and during writing

3. Allow the research to enhance the story

4. Don’t let research control the story

5. You will never research too much

6. Researching does not need to be costly

7. Research from your own environment

8. Research using all of your physical senses

9. Don’t include everything you research – information dumps can distract the reader

The research process which can also be creative and fun, enhances the whole experience of writing your novel/book.

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