I began writing down quotes instead of just my feelings. It leads to more specific talks, but others think it makes things too stiff. How do you prep for your group discussions?
My "prep" is scribbling the name on my hand like a forgotten lunch order. The moment I start typing, it turns into a blurry smudge and I'm just guessing between "Ethan" and "Evan.
I keep a cheap notebook just for character names now. My desk drawer has a page for every project with basics like "Leo, bartender, hates cilantro" in big letters. Sarah_torres20, that two minute quote idea is smart, I might add a key line next to the name so it sticks. Last month I mixed up two side characters for three chapters because my notes just said "Mike". Now I force myself to write one clear detail next to the name before I start anything.