Mastering Research: The Key to Great Storytelling

Summary: Learn the importance of research and discover simple methods to find accurate information for your story.

Just like world-building or character design, research can be a rabbit hole that consumes you. It can be hard to pull yourself away from the origin of a myth or the deep lore of a small town. But too much research? That just becomes procrastination. To prevent you from burning out before you even start, here are some pro research tips to keep it simple and effective.

Minimum Viable Research (MVR)

Minimum Viable Research (MVR) is all about focusing on what’s essential to your story. Think of it as a treasure map that leads you straight to the gold without getting lost in the weeds. You skim the surface of a topic instead of diving deep into every detail. But skimming doesn’t mean you read just one article and call it a day. It’s about grasping the essential details before moving on.

Limit yourself to three strong, diverse sources per research topic. This way, you’ll have a broad understanding of what you need for your story.

Aim to have at least one of each per topic:

• Reliable Academic Source: Books, articles, essays, newspapers, etc.

• Photographic Reference: 2-3 photos to visualize your ideas.

• Secondary Source: Peer reviews, videos on social media, screenshots, etc.

  
  

Discernment in Diverse Sourcing

We live in a fast-paced world where information is abundant. But not all of it is reliable. Fact-checking has become critical in this era of AI. Everything online is subjective, but there are some tricks we can use to discern if the information we’ve found is worth believing.

Give it the Good Ol’ C.R.A.A.P. Test

• Currency: How recently was the information published or updated? Is it still relevant to your topic?

• Relevance: Does the information directly answer your question or suit your specific needs? Is the audience appropriate?

• Authority: Who wrote it? Do they have verifiable credentials, degrees, or recognized expertise in the subject area?

• Accuracy: Where does the information come from? Are claims backed by citations, data, or peer review? Is the writing free of major errors?

• Purpose: Why was the source created? Is the author trying to educate, entertain, or sell you something? Be on the lookout for hidden agendas or strong biases.

  
  

If the information is outdated, heavily opinionated, or “a scam,” the signs will become obvious. But remember, some information might be hard to come by. Ancient myths, lost cultures, and forgotten traditions may take more time to discern. Everyone has a perspective on this world. It’s your job to figure out the truth.

Converse with an Expert

If you’re telling someone else's story, especially if it’s non-fiction, it’s highly recommended to do a few interviews with experts in the field. Even a quick email or phone call can provide clarity on important details that other research methods can’t match.

When conducting an interview, keep your questions concise. You may have a follow-up question if something provokes it, but respect your expert’s time.

If you can’t find an expert or feel too shy to ask, dive into online forums or groups that share your interest. Most people are willing to provide information if they see you’re genuinely interested in highlighting their work.

Be respectful when exploring topics you don’t know. Even if you think you know something, it’s still better to ask the experts. And no, AI isn’t an expert. They’re a conglomerate of human knowledge and should be your last resort for answering residual questions. Do the legwork. Don’t be lazy.

Create a Story Bible

In the spirit of staying organized, I encourage you to create a story bible to hold all your information. This mega-document contains all the details of your story, from research to outline. You can use various websites and apps to make the process easier, but it all depends on the story you’re telling.

As you move through these chapters, you’ll add more details that will make your story come to life. Research is the foundation of the truth your story is built on. Keep it organized and remember that you may not need everything you find on your research journey.

Topics to Keep in the Research Tab of Your Story Bible

• Character Profiles: Traits, speech patterns, and quirks.

• Setting and Locations: Architecture, weather, geography, and culture.

• Technical Details: Equipment, historical dates, and cultural norms.

  
  

If you want to learn more about the Fundamentals of Storytelling, check out some of the resources we have on-planet!

The Art of Balancing Research and Creativity

It’s easy to get lost in research. I mean, who hasn’t spent hours reading about a topic only to realize they’ve gone down a rabbit hole? But here’s the thing: research should enhance your creativity, not stifle it.

Finding Your Unique Voice

As you gather information, remember to infuse your unique voice into your storytelling. Research is a tool, not a crutch. Use it to support your narrative, but don’t let it dictate your style. Your voice is what will make your story stand out.

Embrace the Journey

Research can be a winding road, full of twists and turns. Embrace it! Each piece of information you uncover adds depth to your story. It’s like adding layers to a cake. The more layers, the richer the flavor.

Connect with Your Audience

Think about how your research can resonate with your audience. What emotions do you want to evoke? How can your findings enhance the connection between your characters and readers?

Conclusion: Research as a Storytelling Superpower

In conclusion, research is your storytelling superpower. It equips you with the knowledge you need to craft compelling narratives. By mastering the art of research, you’ll not only enhance your storytelling skills but also connect with your audience on a deeper level.

So, roll up your sleeves, dive into those sources, and let your creativity soar! After all, every great story begins with a spark of curiosity. Happy researching!