Fiction Writing—Journal Set up
By Janine De Tillio Cammarata
Starting a new book is scary and thrilling. I love the uncertainty and excitement of a new adventure. I also enjoy getting to know people so what better way than by creating a new character!
I use a different journal for each book project. It keeps all the information in one place. This journal is usually soft cover and about 5” x 8” so I can easily carry it with me. My organization for my writing journals is adapted from www.bulletjournal.com Key and Index details also depend on whether I’m writing nonfiction or fiction. This one is based on a fiction layout for Through the Mists—my current work-in-progress.
I use an 8 1/2” x 5 1/2” Journal.
Key of categories in the front of my journal.
I color code because it helps me identify different aspects of the book and what areas of the book I’ve been focusing on. The categories may change based on the genre but ,besides magic/rules, all would apply. Add whatever makes sense to you.
Similar to a Table of Contents so can find sections easily.
The Index is my guide on what I need to get back to, expand upon, or add to the manuscript file on my computer. The checkmark indicates that I took care of that item. The @ sign is a reminder that I have to follow up. For example, on page 8 I keep a running list of items I want to research like the meaning of the white stag or Celtic goddesses. Page 15 are my ongoing edits that I don’t want to deal with at the moment like changing the spelling of a name or going back to the beginning to add a detail. I update the index once I’ve written on those pages.
I do start the actual writing of my book in a journal. The flow of the pen on paper fuels my creativity. Then once I type it into the computer, I’ll go back and forth. Even when I’m on my computer, I keep a journal next to me for those possibilities—ideas that aren’t ready to go in the current scene I’m writing but will soon come up. This keeps my imagination flowing.
Writers need motivation. It can very solitary so I find fun ways to keep me in the work. This is my journal tracker for my latest book. As you can see I’m striving for about 90,000 for my young adult book. This gives me weekly goals to reach. I don’t stress if I’m behind because I usually am! Have fun with it: add stickers, washi tape, and design your own cover.
Journal Tracker for my current manuscript
In addition to my journal, I also cross-reference files I create in excel. I have these open when I’m writing so I can go back and forth between my manuscript and notes. The files I set up are:
1. Book Characters: I do have separate files for more detailed information on each character. For quick reference, I keep an ever-growing list of characters with the following headings: Character Name, Facial features, Physical features/Height/Build/Age, Fears/Flaws, Motivation, Backstory, Personality Quirks, Conflict/How They Grow, Weapons/Magic
2. Setting: Especially with fantasy and world-building it’s helpful to quickly remind myself what are the themes and aspects of a place like the Otherworld. I include Location, Description, Theme (feeling character has when there), How affects story, Internet links.
3. Research: Not every book requires research but for my current book, I’m researching Celtic Irish goddesses and other Irish history. I put it all in one file so it’s easily searchable.
4. Book Map: The book map comes in handy when the book is done, and I need to write a synopsis. Plus I can see where I have gaps in the story.
Do what works best for you and keeps the creativity flowing. You don’t want to be bogged down by the administrative aspects of organizing so take the time initially to get this set up. Then it will benefit your writing and not hinder it.
For more tips on writing and journal visit my website at www.janinedetilliocammarata.com