Any good writer knows that knowing what you're writing about is half the struggle of writing. It always helps to have a general idea (at least) of the topics, themes, places, creatures etc. that you are going to be writing about. This is where research comes in.

Research, Research, Research

To write, write, write one has to read, read, read. With that in mind, it's important to note that a good story often begins with thorough research. That fact may sound strange to some since you are writing fiction. Fiction is all made up, right? True, but putting in a bit of background reading does do wonders.

So why research for your fiction?

1. I'm sorry to say this but...you don't know everything.

2. You need to know the rules before you can break them. This way you come off looking like a rebel genius rather than a novice thumbing your nose at conformity.

3. Inspiration comes to those who seek it. Doing research on a particular topic could inspire your next big idea.

4. A well-researched book shows your readers (and future agent) that you cared enough to put in the work.

5. Adding real life elements into your writing will give your imaginary world a real world feel. These features add to the believability of this new reality that you are creating, which will draw your readers even deeper into the story.

Here are some things to remember when conducting research for your next project (or a current work in progress:

1. Your information is only as good as the sources you use.

Not all sources that claim to know actually do. Choose credible sources for a reliable end product. Use books wherever possible and take information from sites like Wikipedia with a grain of salt. Random folks edit sites like these and not all of them put in the research to relay the correct information. That is not to say credible information cannot be found on these sites but be cautious. You never know who might be planting misinformation that can throw off your book.

These are four sites that I have used that I think do provide helpful and accurate information:

For story information:

http://www.ancient-origins.net/

For information on writing:

http://thewritepractice.com/

http://www.shesnovel.com/ (free templates and courses are available, all the yays)

http://www.eadeverell.com/ (more yays for free temps and worksheets and spreadsheets)

You can also vary the kind of sources you use. Documentaries, movies, and even youtube videos can also be helpful sources. 

2. Planning helps

To avoid information overload and spending more time researching rather than writing, start your research with a plan. Scribble a list of topics on which you need information. Figure out the questions you need to be asking on a particular subject. If you are not confident about the questions, you can find world building templates that will give you a general outline of what you need. 

Where I go for help: 

http://www.shesnovel.com/

http://www.eadeverell.com/ 

Both sites offer creative writing sheets that will help you get a handle on what you need to research. A list narrows your scope to what is important while keeping you focused as you wade your way through all the data that you come across. Along the way, you might find new elements to add to your list but starting with an established guideline will keep away most of the confusion.

3. Organization is key.

I am a stickler for this mainly because I tend to get distracted by shiny things. I am also forgetful (sue me) and easily flustered when I am bombarded by too much information all at once. So if you're like me, the right tools help. Even if you're not like me, having the right tools to keep your research organized will save you a lot of time and headache. 

What I use:

Evernote 

yWriter (free PC software for writing)

Pinterest 

A notebook (where I make all my jottings)

Story Binder (where I keep all my world building information for easy access while I'm writing)

I also create bookmark folders in my browser for saving links from the internet

4. Research takes time. 

Just as you set aside writing time, set aside time for research. You won't find all you are looking for on one website. Sometimes you have to go through at least five to get a more in-depth feel of the topic you are researching. Always try to have at least three sources (a tip my lecturer gave me for writing my History papers.) Good research cannot be rushed. One of my favorite places (it borders of a kind of obsession these days) is Pinterest.

Doing thorough research will help you to build the fiction world of your readers' dreams. Take the time to make it a magical one.

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What are some of the methods you use when doing research for your story? Let us know in the comments below!