The Overlooked Resource

Ever stumble over a seemly useless website? Have you ever fought with a case of writer's block? Did you know that one can fix the other?

A seemly useless website, especially those full of links; actually can contain some valuable and helpful items for writers. Since exploring them I have found many items that I have put into my journals and tidbits that I have used in work I have had posted. Lets say you have a character that cheats on her husband AND is a bit klutzy; how do you make that believable? First start with websites that deal with confessions and ones that deal with people doing stupid and almost unbelievable things. You'll be amazed at what you just might be able to piece together.

Recently I needed a character who was an unstable person but had a heart of gold. I started with profiles of criminals like her then I went "outside the box." I went to confession sites, inmate pen pal websites, anything that could open up an idea of how someone so cold could cry. And I found it.

Looking for info on comparing old and new computer stuff? Gave up on search engines trying to find it? A simply dull website that was not written by a computer whiz might have the answer.

A website on virtual weddings might spark a love story. A online database of the Y chromosome might spark a story on a generation old mystery.

Want a teenagers opinion of their town? Hunt down weblogs that fit what you need.

Non-fiction does need very relieble sources. Occasionly these a news link on these sites which which is one way they helps out. As well as government and medical links. I once found a useless link page that had loads of info on airline safety. No matter what you find however; any researcher should double check the facts presented.

Did you know there was a website that turns webpage words into links so you can look them up in a dictionary? Did you know about the website that checks out infomercials to validate them? What about the one that maps UFO sightings? It is understood that anything can be found online nowadays. It is also not surprising that the vast amount of information can be so overwhelming that what can be most helpful is overlooked.

I would like now to address a few questions I have been asked.

What about the porn links some of these websites have? That is one question I get asked a lot, often from those who take great offense to them. I have to say "I'm sorry." Many webmasters either don't mind endorsing those sites because they either a) like them or b) need the links to gather more hints. If you find a site that is useful but you are bothered by the ads the first step would be to talk to the webmaster - politely! They might be able to help you find something without the ads. If helping a young child look up something; have them involved in something else while you search. Websites have been hacked before and replaced with complete porn sites. It is best to be the only one who sees those kind of surprises.

What about the fact the websites might have outdated info? Then compare it to other sites. Maybe you can work around it. Maybe you can "flub" on the information a bit.

What about a this website that the title is.... (insert a four letter word plus .com)? Once again I want to say sorry. Those websites often have useful tidbits however. The final call on whether to check them them out or not is your choice.

I have to pay to use (insert website). My answer. Don't. Often you can find what you need without paying. Not always however. My rule of thumb is if it is a minor detail I try to avoid paying for obtaining it. Always do your homework on the websites asking for your money. This can save you from identity theft.

Now before closing I want to address some safety issues. 1: Do not randomly give out your email address even to website newsletters WITHOUT doing your homework. This is one way spam is spread. 2: If you stumble over anything illegal and/or suspicious, report the site. To who? Find out who in your government handles these complaints. 3: Spyware. It is out there and be careful on any websites you go to. Use your computers security measures. And 4: Avoid giving out personal info such as address and phone number as much as possible. It is allowable for billing or shipping purposes with shopping online. *and this information should be presented only when the browser shows a solid 'lock' icon. Not a partial lock, not an open lock, but a solid gold colored and closed lock.* NEVER give out your social security number; an rare exception to this is the government (.gov) sites.

In closing I would like to say, as a writer I have found a great resource in those so called simply useless websites. Do not overlook them the next time you are out websurfing for ideas.