A pause for reflection

On 28^th September 2010 it was time to pause for reflection. In my journal I listed the decisions I had taken, which I have already blogged about, and also listed some learning points since I started the planning and writing on 26^th July 2010.

Learning point 1   I do not need to clear everything and settle down for a whole morning or afternoon. I can be just as productive setting the timer for one hour and writing until the time is up.

Learning point 2   At first I wrote about 800 words in the hour and the number increased with practice and confidence.

Learning point 3   Although I am trying to write a first draft without editing, I have to read back over what I have already written. This means I make small changes as I go along – there were continuity issues such as Chloe (antiques shop owner) not knowing who Judith was although she had invited her and had her number to call her back. Things like word repetition in a sentence or paragraph cry out to be corrected. I am going to keep notes of what I change as I go along.  (I stopped doing that as they were quite small and there were so many of them)

Learning point 4   I CAN DO THIS and I WILL DO THIS

Learning point 5   Research and having key facts to hand is important to me. I felt much better about the first Hexham chapter after I had been there and identified where Judith’s office would be (above one of the shops in the picture below) and where the new antique shop would be in relation to it. I also found (by chance) the route that Chloe will take on the evenings when she catches the train.

Learning point 6   Short form biogs are fab. In particular the extension exercise I did identifying Judith’s strengths has helped to shape her actions and behaviours. She is a good listener, is observant, patient, diligent and determined. Even though these would be considered strengths, the way Judith uses them are not for always for good and it helps to make her a creepy and scary person.

I did have some other thoughts about research but I can’t tell you as I don’t want to give too much away.