Research Tips for Fiction Writers

Research is a crucial part of fiction writing because it adds authenticity, depth, and believability to your story. This helps your readers immerse themselves in the world you've created. Thorough research elevates your writing whether you’re writing historical fiction, a contemporary novel, or even fantasy. Here are some tips to guide you through the process of researching for your fiction writing.

Start with a Clear Plan

Before diving into research, outline your story.

Action Steps:

• Create a list of topics you need to research. Determine the major themes, settings, and elements that are crucial for your story. This list should be comprehensive, covering all areas where you feel additional knowledge is necessary.
• Prioritize them based on their importance to your story. Not all details are equally important. Rank them in order of how essential they are to your plot and characters, ensuring that you first tackle the elements that will have the most significant impact.
• Allocate specific time slots for research to avoid spending too much time on it. Schedule dedicated research sessions into your writing schedule to maintain a balance. Avoid the temptation to let research consume your writing time by setting clear boundaries and deadlines for each research task. Don’t fall down any rabbit holes!

Use Reliable Sources

Not all sources are created equal. To ensure the accuracy of your details, use reliable and credible sources.?

Action Steps:

• Look for books and articles written by experts in the field. Libraries, academic journals, and publications from recognized institutions are treasure troves of reliable information. Seek out authors who are well-respected in their fields to ensure the information is accurate.
• Use libraries and academic databases for in-depth information. Resources like JSTOR, Google Scholar, and university libraries provide access to peer-reviewed articles and extensive research papers that can offer deeper insights.
• Cross-check facts using multiple sources. Verifying information across several reputable sources reduces the risk of incorporating inaccuracies into your story. If different sources agree, it’s more likely that the information is reliable.

Conduct Interviews

Speaking with experts or people with firsthand experience can provide valuable insights that you won’t find in books. Interviews can add authenticity to your character’s professions, dialogue, and actions.

Action Steps:

• Identify and reach out to experts or individuals who have lived experiences relevant to your story. Look for professionals, historians, or people who have personally experienced the events or cultures you’re writing about. They can offer unique perspectives and details.
• Prepare thoughtful questions to maximize the value of your interviews. Develop a list of specific questions that address the gaps in your knowledge. Open-ended questions can help interviewees provide more detailed and nuanced responses.
• Record the interviews (with permission) for accurate reference later. Having a recording ensures that you capture all the details accurately. This also allows you to focus fully on the conversation without worrying about taking notes in real time.

Visit Relevant Locations

If possible, visit the locations you’re writing about. This can give you a tangible sense of the place, including its atmosphere, smells, sounds, and small details that can bring your setting to life. If visiting isn’t possible, use virtual tours or detailed descriptions available online.

Action Steps:

• Plan visits to key locations and take detailed notes and photographs. Immersing yourself in the setting can help you capture its essence. Take note of the environment, weather, architecture, and any unique characteristics that stand out.
• Pay attention to sensory details like sounds, smells, and textures. These elements can significantly enhance the realism of your scenes. Observe how the place feels, what you hear, and the scents that define the area.
• Use online tools like Google Earth for a virtual exploration. When physical visits are not feasible, virtual tools can be invaluable. Google Earth allows you to explore places in detail, helping you visualize and describe settings accurately.

Keep Organized Notes

Efficient organization of your research notes is vital. Use digital tools like Evernote, Scrivener, or dedicated notebooks (if paper is more your style) to keep track of your findings. Organize your notes by topic, and ensure they are easily accessible for reference as you write.

Action Steps:

• Create a systematic way to categorize and store your notes. Develop a filing system that categorizes notes by themes, chapters, or specific details. This organization will save you time when you need to refer back to your research.
• Use tags and keywords for easy retrieval. Tagging your notes with relevant keywords allows you to quickly find specific information. This is especially useful when your research spans multiple topics.
• Regularly review and update your notes as your research progresses. Keep your notes current by revisiting and revising them as you gather more information. This ensures that your research remains accurate and comprehensive.

Stay Updated

Research is an ongoing process. Even after you’ve started writing, stay open to new information that might enhance your story. Subscribe to relevant journals, follow expert blogs, and join writer forums to keep your knowledge current.

Action Steps:

• Regularly revisit and refresh your research notes. Periodically review your notes to ensure they remain accurate and relevant. This practice helps incorporate any new findings and keeps your research aligned with your story’s evolving needs.

Conclusion

Research can be a rewarding part of the fiction writing process. It not only adds authenticity to your story but also helps you become more immersed in the world you’re creating. By following these tips, you can conduct effective research that enhances your fiction and engages your readers. Happy writing!