Research
3 min read

How to organise your novel research

An illustration of a writer climbing a ladder to get to the top of a pile of books.

Picture the scene: you're halfway through writing your novel, the plot is progressing nicely, and you've reached a crucial dialogue. However, you hit a snag. The historical accuracy of a phrase used by your protagonist is unclear. You know you've read about it somewhere, but where? Your research is a vast ocean, and now you can't locate the desired information. It's a common predicament for writers, but it doesn’t have to be.

Centralizing your notes

First Draft Pro offers a dedicated notes section for each project. This feature allows you to categorize your notes based on themes, characters, or settings. It's akin to having a neat, well-organized digital folder where every piece of information has its place. The notes can be linked directly into your manuscript, making referencing a seamless task. Imagine having all your research, whether it's a character sketch or a historical fact, just a click away while writing.

A neural network for your novel

The beauty of First Draft Pro lies in its ability to link related notes, creating a network of ideas. This feature helps you see the connection between different elements of your story, making the narrative more cohesive. It's like having a mind map but in a digital format. The linking helps you jump between related notes, ensuring the flow of ideas remains uninterrupted as you navigate through your research.

Outlining your narrative

Plotting the course of your narrative is crucial, and First Draft Pro offers an intuitive outlining feature to aid in this process. Whether you are someone who likes to have a clear roadmap or prefers a more organic approach to plotting, First Draft Pro accommodates both styles. You can sketch out major scenes, character arcs, or dialogues, and these outlines are readily available as you transition into the writing phase. It’s like having a roadmap that guides you, ensuring you never lose sight of the bigger picture while diving into the details of your narrative.

Crafting your bestseller

Writing a book is no small feat. It requires meticulous planning, a dash of creativity, and a lot of revisions. First Draft Pro is engineered to assist you through each of these stages. From housing all your notes in one place, mapping out your plot, to even formatting your text for a polished look, it's designed to make the writing process as smooth as possible. It's not just about keeping your research organized; it’s about creating a conducive environment that allows your narrative to flourish.

Navigating your creative galaxy

With First Draft Pro, you are not just organizing your research; you are navigating through the creative galaxy with a reliable companion. It's about making the writing journey enjoyable, efficient, and less overwhelming. So, as you dive back into crafting your novel, know that with First Draft Pro, your research is well-organized and easily accessible, allowing you to focus on what matters most - storytelling.