I came across some typed up notes from a previous session of life universe and everything panel.

Here are the notes on writing about research and writing. Any misinformation is the fault of the note taker.

• Research is essential in writing about known facts are known history.
• If you can’t be right be vague (Lois Bujold”
• Background reading (grazing), or specific research for instances of fact needed in the story.
• Plausible fakes. Sometimes they work, sometimes not. You have to collect as much information as possible and then extrapolate. (Judith Moffett).
• In fantasy, you can rely on information for 20 or 30 years ago or more. In science fiction, you have to stay current with scientific thought and discovery.
• To give information in a hurry, go to an expert. Even and ‘after the fact’ reading by an expert that can be useful.
• ‘Daily life’ books are often useful (loss country life, female author)
• Research can often shape the story by presenting new facts that you find you really want to see.
• Reference librarians can (and want to) see help you find information.
• Writing letters to experts works well.
• Various periodicals can provide a wealth of information.
• Often presenting facts bores the reader. The illusion of accuracy can be more important.
• Better to tell a convincing lie been an unconvincing truth.” Mary K Smith) (Kim Stanley Robinson’s Mars series – red Mars)
• There is no substitute for experience when presenting information in a way that feels natural to the reader. ‘Info dumps’ can be boring or interesting; it all depends upon how you handle it.
• Facts mutate.” (Lois Bujold)
• Nothing is more dated as a well-researched technical story.
• Organizing facts: “if I can’t remember it is not interesting enough to use in the story.” “Lois Bujold”

Have something to add? Please do so in the comment section of this blog. Thanks.