Writing science fiction and fantasy can be different than other types of fiction. Sure there are some constants to all fiction writing, but with these particular genres, the author often creates his own world, whether the future worlds of Scifi or the alternate worlds of fantasy. Research comes into play, helping to create plausible settings, a credible technology, or a logical system of magic. Here are several resources that can help an aspiring science fiction or fantasy author.

Research
Fantasy World Building Questions by Patricia Wrede
An exhaustive list of things to think about when creating a fictional world

The Encyclopedia Mythica
An extensive encyclopedia of myths, legends and cryptozoology

Resources for Medieval England
A large list of links to articles about various aspects of medieval life

Futurism
Articles on the future and technology


Articles on Writing SF & F
Uncle Orson’s Writing Class
writing advice from science fiction author Orson Scott Card

Science Fiction & Fantasy Writers of America
The official site of this organization has many articles about writing and publishing science fiction and fantasy


Online Workshops
Forward Motion for Writers from Holly Lilse
This a bulletin board community that sponsors challenges and writing marathons; Very helpful when you need motivation to keep going

Critique.org
A wonderful critique group for science fiction fantasy and horror.

Hatrack River Writers’Group
An online critique group sponsored by Orson Scott Card’s website


Workshops
Viable Paradise
A one week workshop for science fiction and fantasy writiers held on Martha’s Vineyard

Clarion
One of the most highly regarded science fiction writing workshops in the US

Odyssey
The Fantasy Writing Workshop
A six week workshop held annually on the campus of Saint Anselm College in Manchester, New Hampshire


Market Lists
Duotrope
A searchable database of markets in all genres

Ralan’s Webstravaganza

StoryPilot’s Science Fiction & Fantasy Market Search Engine


For more general writing resources, visit Fiction Writing at BellaOnline