So the convention is a few days away. Most conventions will come out with a schedule a few days to a few weeks in advance, if they don't they may have one you can get when you arrive, or one in their mobile app.
If they so happen to come out with one in advance, lucky you! That gives you time to choose the panels, deals, signings, and whatever other events that you may like to go to before the day of the convention. So take a moment to mull over the choices you got, and choose the ones you feel you can't miss. Got to have your book signed by that author? Pencil in their signing! Wanna go to that sci-fi TV show panel? put that into your calendar too.
Make sure not to overload yourself, and not to accidentally schedule overlapping panels and events! If it's a bigger convention, take lines and waiting queues into consideration, as that'll effect how you should plan (for waiting queues it's best to get there earlier, so back-to-back panels aren't a great idea). Even if it's a smaller convention, make sure to take breaks now and then from all of the panels, rest your legs and grab a snack, maybe even go outside and get a fresh breath of air.
Also take in the fact of whatever else that you may like to do there. If you want to browse the dealer's room, eat lunch at a diner nearby, or merely just chat with others, make sure to leave space for that! Everyone cons different, but I can attest to the idea that cons are more fun when you leave time to merely just explore the other possibilities there, other than what you've scheduled on paper beforehand. I've found good con friends, and made good memories by just going with the flow and checking out a panel that I likely wouldn't have otherwise.
When you're at the con and have a free section, ask around to see what panels or events others recommend going to soon! If you've heard several people hyping up a certain panel, maybe it's worth your time to check it out.
Basically, have a good schedule made beforehand so you aren't totally lost on what to do, but to leave it open for changes and other opportunities. Don't restrict yourself to only the things on your schedule unless it's an event you've already paid an extra fee for or you're going to be involved in.
Happy conning!
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How To: Con
Non-Fictionwhether you're new to conventions, or a experienced con nerd, everyone still has things to learn. This handbook full of tips, advice, and rules will help nerds of all types on how to con better.
