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Ever started researching for your novel only to get so overwhelmed by everything you learned that you couldn't write at all? In this episode, Mary introduces the "marginalia method"—a simple but powerful technique that prevents research overwhelm while making the process more fun and efficient.
Mary breaks down the two common research traps writers fall into: research overwhelm (feeling paralyzed by too much information) and research fanaticism (trying to include everything you've learned). She then shares her practical solution that keeps research manageable and actionable.
If you've ever felt stuck because your research made your story feel too complex, or if you want to make your research process more productive, this episode will give you a game-changing tool.
🎧 What you'll learn:
✅ Why starting with a "Big Question" is crucial for novel success
Want more?
Love this episode? Subscribe to First Draft Club and leave us a review! Your support helps other writers discover the show.
By By Mary Adkins | Author & Book Writing Coach4.9
114114 ratings
Ever started researching for your novel only to get so overwhelmed by everything you learned that you couldn't write at all? In this episode, Mary introduces the "marginalia method"—a simple but powerful technique that prevents research overwhelm while making the process more fun and efficient.
Mary breaks down the two common research traps writers fall into: research overwhelm (feeling paralyzed by too much information) and research fanaticism (trying to include everything you've learned). She then shares her practical solution that keeps research manageable and actionable.
If you've ever felt stuck because your research made your story feel too complex, or if you want to make your research process more productive, this episode will give you a game-changing tool.
🎧 What you'll learn:
✅ Why starting with a "Big Question" is crucial for novel success
Want more?
Love this episode? Subscribe to First Draft Club and leave us a review! Your support helps other writers discover the show.

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