I think facts are fun, so I write to celebrate curiosity. 

As writers, we have a unique opportunity. Our words inspire readers to appreciate the world. Our articles, stories, and books help others understand people of today and from the past. Our writing helps readers to see the world and others in a new way. 

Our readers expect us to be an authority on the topics we explore in our writing. We need to know more than our readers. And if you write nonfiction, every single word must be true. 

Nonfiction writers share truth—just truth—with readers. You don’t have to be a trained theologian, historian, or scientist to write nonfiction. But you must do your research. 

My published 11 books (and contracts for three more with general and Christian publishers) are packed full of facts. But I’m not a historian or scientist. So how is it that I write nonfiction for children? I research. And you can, too. Here are 5 tips for research when you are not an expert.

1. Gather baseline knowledge.

You can gather baseline knowledge do this through websites that you wouldn’t consider as a resource. You might find blog posts like “10 Cool Frogs” or “What Your Teacher Didn’t Tell You About the Revolutionary War.” Read them. Watch videos. Listen to podcasts. Read books. Enjoy the time to gather ideas of what you might research next. 

2. Take notes.

Once you gather solid resources, it’s time to take notes. Not sure if a book or website is a good option? Take the stinky CARP test. I suggest you take notes by hand as much as possible. You can also take advantage of digital organizers like Scrivener (also used for writing), One Note, Evernote, Zotero, and more. Take a look at my research notebook here.

3. Keep track of sources.

Keep an ongoing bibliography of every single document, book, email, interview, video, and museum you use as a resource. And make sure you note details in your footnotes about where (page number and such) in the source you found the fact. Free, online bibliography generators make this easy (in addition to some of the resources listed above). EasyBib.com is just one option. 

4. Consult with an expert.

You may not be an expert, but you want to be quite knowledgeable before meeting with one so you don’t waste their time. You might email the expert with a list of five questions you’d like to ask. If you can meet your expert, that will be the perfect time to get hands-on. 

5. Get hands-on.

If you weren’t able to get hands-on with your topic yet, now is a great time. If you’re writing a magazine article on recycling, make an appointment to visit a waste treatment facility. Writing 5 tips to start a garden? Then it’s time to meet up with a gardener (or several) and maybe a gardening store. 

During my research for The Laura Ingalls Wilder Companion, I contacted the museum in advance and scheduled a time for a personal tour. My research trip to the Almanzo Wilder Farm was amazing. Though personal tours and consultations are not always possible, they make the research even richer. And that makes your writing more detailed!

Are you ready?

Research is an investment. It takes your time and energy. 

For many of us, our goal in writing for all audiences (both Christian and general) and about all topics (both fiction and nonfiction) is to glorify God. Then the work we put into the writing is worth it (even if it is never published). 

Research is just one part of the writing process for nonfiction writers. If your research bores you, that boredom will likely find its way into your writing. But if research rabbit trails and finding “wow” facts fascinate you, nonfiction writing may be perfect for you. 

I’m thrilled to teach Write2Ignite’s upcoming masterclass on nonfiction. We’ll cover writing nonfiction for kids and teens, research, and writing for the educational market. I hope to see you there! 

Check out a few of Annette’s books.

The Laura Ingalls Wilder Companion: A Chapter-by-Chapter Guide https://amzn.to/3ItElva

Whooo Knew? The Truth About Owls https://amzn.to/3au2Trd

Meow! The Truth About Cats is now available for pre-order. https://amzn.to/3atJDtR

Wild Wonders: Animal Devotions for Kids (Tyndale, 2024)

REGISTRATION OPENS ON AUGUST 1!

BONUS: Leave a comment and your name will be entered to win one of Annette’s books pictured above. This giveaway ends on August 2. All Master Class attendees will automatically be entered in the giveaway contest for the other five books.