Research techniques for novel writing and worldbuilding

When it comes to worldbuilding and crafting believable stories, writers can use various research approaches. Here are some different types, their benefits, and the types of novels they best suit:

Research techniques for novel writing

Primary Research

Primary research involves collecting original data firsthand, it provides direct, tailored information and fresh perspectives, ideal for specific details and up-to-date information.

1. Interviews and Surveys
   • Approach: Conduct interviews or surveys to gather information directly from sources.
   • Benefits: Direct information tailored to your needs, fresh perspectives.
   • Best for: Contemporary novels, investigative thrillers, and stories needing up-to-date information.
2. Consult Experts
   • Approach: Work with experts or co-researchers to gather information.
   • Benefits: Shared expertise and knowledge, diverse perspectives enhance depth and accuracy.
   • Best for: Complex novels requiring specialized knowledge, such as medical dramas or legal thrillers.
3. Field Research
   • Approach: Travel to specific locations, observe environments, and engage with the setting.
   • Benefits: Real-world details and sensory experiences, authentic portrayal of settings.
   • Best for: Travel writing, historical fiction, and novels set in specific, real-world locations.
4. Experimental Research
   • Approach: Conduct experiments or simulations relevant to your story.
   • Benefits: Practical understanding of processes and outcomes, creative exploration of "what-if" scenarios.
   • Best for: Science fiction, fantasy with magical systems, and novels involving scientific concepts.
5. Ethnographic Research
   • Approach: Immerse yourself in a community, participating and observing over time.
   • Benefits: Deep insights and nuanced understanding, rich, authentic character development.
   • Best for: Multicultural novels, stories exploring subcultures, and novels focused on societal dynamics.

Secondary Research

Secondary research involves using existing sources of information. It helps you build a solid knowledge base, essential for detailed worldbuilding and historical accuracy.

1. Reading Books and Articles
   • Approach: Dive into books, articles, and academic papers related to your story's themes and settings.
   • Benefits: Access in-depth and well-researched information, expand your understanding of complex topics.
   • Best for: Fantasy, sci-fi needing detailed worldbuilding, and historical fiction needing accuracy.
2. Watching Documentaries and Films
   • Approach: Watch documentaries, films, and series related to your story’s context.
   • Benefits: Visual and narrative insights, understanding cultural nuances and real-life scenarios.
   • Best for: Visual storytelling inspiration, period pieces, and culturally rich settings.
3. Archival Research
   • Approach: Examine historical documents, records, and archives.
   • Benefits: Authentic historical details and context, accurate depiction of historical periods.
   • Best for: Historical fiction, biographies, and novels with a strong historical element.
4. Online Research
   • Approach: Use the internet to find information, including academic databases, forums, and online articles.
   • Benefits: Quick access to a vast amount of information, convenient and cost-effective.
   • Best for: General research needs, contemporary settings, and initial research stages.