First, you need objects. If you have no objects, the route will be completely blank. If you want to use someone elses objects, you may need to secure permissions to use them. You may also want sounds, (i.e. announcements, other train objects, etc.) however they are not essential. You will also need to learn .csv or .rw route coding. Note that .rw coding is NOT recommended as nobody that I know of makes .rw routes anymore. It also helps to have a sample route to reference.