The Art of Research in Writing: Balancing Creativity and Preparation
As a professional writer, the amount of time and type of research I engage in can vary widely across different projects. Both fiction and non-fiction require a unique approach to research, and striking the right balance between preparation and diving into the creative process is paramount.
Researching for Fiction vs Non-Fiction
Fiction: When it comes to writing fiction, I often start with a basic understanding and delve into specific details during the writing process. For example, in a science fiction novel, I might not need extensive research about E?ther drives or advanced AI systems until the specific scenes require it. This allows me to stay flexible and ensure that the narrative flows smoothly. Detailed explanations can sometimes detract from the story rather than enhance it, leaving me to decide what the readers truly need to know. Many readers will skim over pages of technical details and would prefer a wider range of character development and thrilling plot points.
Non-Fiction: In contrast, non-fiction demands a robust and upfront research approach. This usually takes several weeks or even months, depending on the depth and breadth of the subject matter. The goal is to gather comprehensive information and ensure that the content is well-informed and engaging. As an example, a book on forensic science requires detailed research into actual cases, interviews with experts, and a thorough understanding of the technicalities involved. This approach ensures that the information presented is accurate and valuable to the readers.
Key Considerations for Self-Publishing
Self-publishing can be a bit daunting but with the right strategies, it can be relatively easy. After successfully publishing over 200 books on Amazon and running 120 million Amazon ads, I have refined the process to a series of manageable steps. These steps are outlined in my free self-publishing secrets checklist. The checklist breaks down the entire self-publishing journey into bite-sized chunks, making each step more achievable.
Onto the Writing!
At the end of the day, research is only one aspect of writing. It is a critical component, certainly, but it is secondary to the actual act of writing. For fiction, extensive research is often not necessary during the initial stages; instead, it should be approached as needed during the writing process. For non-fiction, while research is more extensive, the goal is to use this research to inform and enhance the writing, not replace it.
In the case of a non-fiction book, extensive research and interviews are necessary to have something substantive to write about. However, it’s crucial not to confuse the act of researching with being a writer. You can spend years researching a topic and never write a single word. This is especially true if you obsess over the idea that your work must be as authentic as you were a leading expert in the field. There is a fine line between being thorough and being overwhelmed.
One of the most important tips I have for aspiring writers is to spend time researching as you write, not just initially. This mental flexibility allows you to write as you go, and to develop your ideas in real-time. Breaking down your book into specific chapters and writing with a goal in mind can help manage feelings of being overwhelmed. When you finish a chapter, you can go back and tie together the ideas, adding any new and critical information you have learned. This iterative process ensures that your work is well-rounded and engaging.
Some books will indeed require a significant amount of research upfront, but most do not, and many simply demand the creativity and flexibility to research and write simultaneously. The key is to find the right balance that suits the nature and scope of each project. This ensures that you deliver well-informed and engaging content that resonates with your audience.
I sincerely hope these insights help you on your writing journey and assist you in navigating the complex world of research and writing.