adventuresofmegatron asked: I've laid out a map for the world portrayed in my novel-in-progress, but I'm not exactly an artist. Are there any programs online that you would recommend for constructing a fake map? Am I better off just using basic shapes in Photoshop?

Tazzy: Honestly, I don’t think having an in-depth map is all too important! I’ve sketched out maps of the world/layouts of cities and the like, but beyond that, I’ve done nothing with them.

It depends what you’re attempting to achieve with this map. Is it just something to refer to to remind yourself of the layout of your world? If that’s the case, a basic map is fine. And, besides- I’m sure you own a few novels that have maps in the front of them to demonstrate to the reader what the world is like. Flick to one of these now. It’s not that complicated, right?

However, if you do want to make a more complex map, then… I’ve no clue about any programs online that I’d recommend, as I’ve not ever used any. I Googled, but most of what comes up is professional map-making software which requires a license to use, or RPG software that’s not map-making in the sense that you’re discussing.

If it’s very important to you, then ask a friend of yours who’s arty to draw up your map in more detail. Or, if you don’t have any arty friends (which I doubt!), you could commission someone to do it for you. I’m sure it won’t come to that, though!

Maps are great things to have, and drawing them up can show you where you’ve left things out/made geographically impossible things happen (unless that’s intentional, of course). However, I personally don’t put it too high on my list of priorities when I’m writing a story. All the maps I have are extremely sketchy and are just for references. With your novel, unless you’re self publishing it, there’s no absolute need for a polished map with lots of details on it.

It’s all down to you, though, honestly. I’m not writing your novel, you are. I’m sure you’ll choose the right thing to suit your needs. :)

(I’m sure your map is fine; if you need someone to look at it, feel free to drop us another message, and I’ll cast my eye upon it.)