Make your book a STAR - Part 4

How do you know what you know? Without research, you have opinions not facts. R is for Research and it's a writer's BFF. Whether fiction or non-fiction, a writer needs a context in which to craft ideas. Traditional publishers demand that you research comparable works as part of your proposal and that's a wise idea no matter how or where you publish.

I admit it; I am a research junkie. Online research is a blessing for easy access. I also delight in spending a Saturday at a graduate library with real paper journals and shelves of books. There's no end to what can be discovered that adds richness to your work.

Don't use fiction writing as an excuse for pushing aside research. You can incorporate actual locations, local myths, historical background for the timeline of your work and other details that take your work to a higher level. See you in the library!!

STAR System

S = Start with your best idea

T = Tailor it with an outline

A = Accentuate the highlights

R = Research, Research, Research