Where I am in the writing process: Um... my current WIP is failing and has this long, pointless intro. I also hate the genre it is falling into so... that is definitely on hold. now I want to write a totally different story with a totally different idea and voice.
My Current Problem: I just need some general tips on researching. Like: How to stay organized, what to really cover, etc.
Question of the Week: What do you give up in order to write?
My Answer: I don't really know. Probably TV time or time to read. Sometimes I listen to music then realize I should be writing. Other than that unless I am in a challenge I write when it works for me.
I try to write as much what I know so I don't have to research. For example: the first book I tried to write was set in Colorado. I've been there several times but I didn't grow up there or go to high school there. It was way too hard. So when I wrote my 2nd book I set in VA where I live and where i grew up. Much easier! I've tried writing from a guy perspective...same thing. I guess I just avoid research mostly. Its very time consuming...you know just searching google aimlessly. I guess I don't really know how to do it either.
ReplyDeleteResearch is an interesting question. I've heard both that you should research before you start writing (but you have to know when to stop researching and when to start writing) and that you should wait until you're done with the first draft so you know WHAT to research.
ReplyDeletePersonally, I did a lot of research to start my novel since it takes place in a place and time I'm unfamiliar with. That little bit of research to begin with was crucial to my understanding, and it even propelled the plot forward in ways I would never have been able to imagine before. So I recommend looking into things broadly before you start writing. Be aware, though, that research won't write your novel for you.
But, as with anything in writing, it's so different for everyone!
I actually really love researching. I guess it depends on your topic though. Normally I outline and fill in the gaps with research. Anytime I am considering the story line and I wonder "What colors would you wear in the 1800's?" I add it to a research list to look up later. I keep it all in a word doc.
ReplyDeleteSounds like you may just need to continue writing and see where the story leads you. You might have to throw out the intro or drastically shorten it but don't even focus on that now. Just get all your thoughts out on the page and revise later.
What genre is it falling into?
My advice on research is simple. Write a plan. Be specific about the information you need and set a time frame. Utilize the calendar and clock and stick to both. Most people spend too much time on research and never get around to using what's been found. Also, don't wait until you're done to sift through your discoveries. Carve out time each day if possible. You'll be able to make adjustments and avoid wasted efforts in the days that follow.
ReplyDeleteWhen I wrote my first wip, I made an outline, then made up my town. Yep, I drew maps and what her house should like inside and out. While I was writing the story made notes on things I didn't know about so could research later. Better to get the first draft done, then spend writing time researching. Yes, you can spend hours researching on the internet. I used our world books in order to avoid that and found lots of great background information.
ReplyDeleteI gave up TV a couple of years ago in order to read more. That decision has really helped my writing. Now I am moving away from blogging as much as I did in order to focus on writing.
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