You could always upload a piece and see if the other members think you've got the balance about right.

I've not put any technical detail in yet. I'm trying to concentrate on the underlying aesthetics, and I suppose I'm wondering if I can get away with just doing that.

I agree it depends on the novel and its genre, but also is simply personal taste. As a reader I like enough detail to give an authentic feel to the story but no more than that.

I think sometimes you have to do quite a lot of research to feel confident to insert those few key phrases which bring alive the character's profession or situation. So, do the research but only use a small percentage of what you've learned.

Some people seem to love detail about stuff I hate. I didn't like the tractor passages in the Ukrainian Tractor book, but I know some readers loved those bits.

Deb

I don't, personally, think much jargon is a good idea, unless that's the point of the book (as in 'Longitude' or similar) but you get a great effect by dropping in tiny bits of really close-up detail about the job/hobby, wihout reams of explanation or technical stuff.

Rosy x

I think if a character is passionate about a hobby you can get away with everything - like people in 'real life' are never boring if they care aobut what they're talking about. But it's when the author is telling the reader how much they know, I turn off.

I think that's exactly right - context is all, and it's most disastrous when it comes in as a wodge of Tell from author to reader.

Emma

people in 'real life' are never boring if they care aobut what they're talking about

I think I'd have to disagree with that, Sharas Have you never met a nerd?

Apparently I'm quite nerdy myself, but I've met far nerdier nerds.

Deb

<Added>

That'll teach me not to preview! :(

Maybe I'm even nerdier than you! Mind you I'm quite famous amongst friends for finding even the strangest people interesting. Yes, obviously you have to keep things in proportion in writing, but I suppose what I'm saying is 'context', like Emma.

I find strange people interesting too. Well, quite often...

Deb