The Gears and Cogs Behind a Novel - Part Two

WORLD CHARACTERISTICS

1. Explain what your world is like physically: what does it look like? Can you map it? What is the climate? Are there seasons? What is the geography?

2. Explain the moral codes: what is society like? What are the beliefs, values, and prejudices?

3. Explain the economic state: are people wealthy, poor, or divided? What is the prominent item of commerce? Currency? Barter? Information?

4. Explain the political structure: does it work for the people? More importantly, does it work for your characters? Why or why not?

5. Explain the world's political environment: is it stable? Is it riddled with war? Who is the dominant power? Why? What are their aims and goals?

6. Explain the predominant religion (or religions): are the people advanced enough to understand the difference between religion, philosophy, natural philosophy, and magic?

7. Explain how magic (if there is any) or any paranormal element works.

8. Explain the level of scientific achievement: what are the preferred methods of transportation and communication? What is the state of medicine? Are there any unique technologies?

9. Explain the day-to-day life of your characters and how it differs from that of your readers.