I’m a researcher. Some might even say an information hoarder, and point to the network of private blogs and lists I maintain to keep track of every interesting post I stumble across like a dragon with a Tumblr account.
That’s why, over time, I’ve been building a little pile of resources for fanfic writers, despite not being one myself. I’m pushing the boundaries of what can be considered meta this week, but only in hopes of offering something useful to all you talented fic writers. ✌️
Fandom – Writing Resources
All About Writing Fight Scenes by @brynwrites, I (Bryn) will tell you a secret: I trained MMA for seven years, and when I write authentic hand to hand fight scenes, they sound dull too. The problem with fight scenes in books is that trying to describe each punch and kick and movement (especially if it’s the only thing you’re describing) creates a fight that feels like it’s in slow motion.
Adding Realism to your Coffee Shop AU by cynicalpie, Alright fic writers I’m here for the thread none of you asked for: how to add ~realism~ to your coffee shop AU.
BDSM Info Week by @allspnships, et al, Few who write about BDSM and kink in fanfic have experienced the acts that they’re describing—and that’s absolutely fine. This is why research is a fanfic writer’s best friend when it comes to writing about anything they don’t really know firsthand. But researching BDSM and kink isn’t easy.
Britspeak to Amerispeak by @drgrlfriend, Writing a Teen Wolf fic where Derek takes this bloke Stiles to see a film in the cinema before taking him back to his flat to meet his mum? Writing a Sherlock fic where Sherlock meets John at college while studying for a big test so they both get good grades? If so, you need this Britspeak to Amerispeak directory.
Common Medical Mistakes by @ijustreallylovedaredevil, So I’ve noticed a bunch of medical errors in fics I read, so I decided to post this handy guide to some of the most common errors and some background on basic medical things.
Resources for Writing Sketchy Topics by @wordsnstuff, Medicine, characters (such as mental health, trauma, life experiences, etc.), illegal activity, black market, and forensics.
Writing Deaf Language by @ao3commentoftheday, @feverything, et al, I need some input. At one point in a story of mine, two of my characters are going to communicate using sign language. I’m torn between trying to describe the motions, or writing it how it would be found in a sign language manual. I feel like the former would be harder to engage in, but the latter is usually written in caps, especially with finger spelling. I don’t want people reading it to think that they’re yelling at each other. Thoughts?
look at this treasure trove!
Ooooooooo!
Karate, SPN Demonic Octopus Guardian 