Worldbuilding the Master Guide (with Template)

Worldbuilding the Master Guide (with Template) Worldbuilding: the Master Guide (with Template) â€Å"Worldbuilding† is a term you’ll hear from a lot of writers - especially when you’re talking about the science fiction and fantasy genres. Great authors can create a living, breathing environment for their stories, invite readers into another world, and make us homesick for a place we’ve never been.But for new (or not so new) authors, the challenge that worldbuilding presents might be overwhelming. So we turned to an expert for tips: Reedsy professional Michael Rowley was the UK editor for The Martian, Andy Weir’s bestselling novel. In this post, he shares his best advice on how to worldbuild a believable and convincing universe.Michael recently hosted a live chat on the very topic of worldbuilding. You can re-watch his video below, skip to a summary on the following topics, or jump straight to download our free 20-page worldbuilding guide. Planning your worldThere are two basic types of authors when it comes to worldbuilding: those who plan and those who make it up as they go along. Planners sit down and work all the details out beforehand, determining the geography and history of their world before starting the first draft. The other kind of writer is often described as a â€Å"pantser† who â€Å"flies by the seat of their pants.†Naturally, each approach has its advantages and pitfalls.Over-planning Makes sure you read quality books and try to venture outside your genre whenever you can - you never know where you’ll find inspiration for a new character or a fantastic narrative device. For more specific resources on worldbuilding, give these a read:Wonderbook: The Illustrated Guide to Creating Imaginative Fiction by Jeff VandermeerWriting Fantasy Science Fiction by Lisa TuttleThe Tough Guide to Fantasyland by Diana Wynne JonesAlso, remember to check out writing blogs by excellent authors like Chuck Wendig, Holly Lisle, and Brandon Sanderson, and to read as many fantasy and science fiction books as you can! Here are some good lists to get you started:The 100 Best Fantasy Series EverThe 100 Best Sci-Fi Books of All TimeThe 12 Best Epic Fantasy Books like Game of Thrones20 Addictive Urban Fantasy BooksThe 10 Best H.P. Lovecraft Books for Beginners15 Chilling Cosmic Horror Titles to Start You OffWhat is your approach to worldbuilding? Do you plan ahead, or do you prefer to m ake it up as you go? Share your thoughts and opinions in the comments section below.