Writing Tips: Databases
I have found that databases are an extremely valuable commodity. Why? The information contained within them is usually easy to search through. They are easy to build upon and you can create one for just about anything.
The following are a few ideas on how to use a database to help you with your writing. I personally use MS Excel to create my databases.
- Characters: If you are writing that epic long novel, or a series of novels that are based in the same fictional world, this database will help you determine what names you have used before and who might be in what novel or short story. I would also keep age, race and other simple statistics that you might need easy access to.
- Timelines: you can actually keep a timeline in a database. You will probably want to write it in shorthand to keep the database comfortable in size on the screen. You will be able to sort by date, this way it doesn’t really matter where you type in each entry.
- Submissions: You will want to keep a log of when and where you submitted your short story or novel. You do not want to send the same story to a publisher or agent twice.
- Markets: You can also create your own database for the markets you like to submit to. Keep information like editors, mailing address and how they like information to be submitted to them.
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If you have other ideas on how to find story ideas, write a comment. I would love to hear how you are inspired.
