Narrative nonfiction, also known as creative nonfiction, is a genre that combines the storytelling techniques of fiction with the factual information of nonfiction. One of the key elements of this genre is the use of research to provide a solid foundation for the story. Here are some tips for researching for narrative nonfiction writing:
Start with a clear focus: Before you begin your research, it's important to have a clear idea of what you want to write about and what questions you want to answer. This will help guide your research and ensure that you stay on track.
Use a variety of sources: Researching for narrative nonfiction requires a thorough examination of a variety of sources, including primary sources such as letters, diaries, and official documents, as well as secondary sources such as books, articles, and interviews.
Get to know the experts: One of the most important aspects of researching for narrative nonfiction is talking to experts in the field. These experts can provide valuable insight, as well as help you understand the context and background of the story you're writing.
Use technology to your advantage: The internet and other digital tools can be incredibly useful for researching narrative nonfiction. You can use online databases, archives, and other resources to access primary and secondary sources, as well as find experts to interview.
Verify information: It's important to verify the information you find through your research. This can be done by cross-referencing sources and checking facts against multiple sources.
Keep good notes: Keeping detailed and organized notes is essential when researching for narrative nonfiction. You'll want to be able to find the information you need quickly and easily as you write your story.
Respect the privacy of your sources: When you research, you may come across sensitive information. It is crucial that you respect the privacy of your sources, and obtain the necessary permissions before publishing the information.