A TCG takes a lot of planning and preparation before you decide to make one. I have explained some questions you should think through before deciding on making one.

DO I HAVE TIME?

This should be the very first question you should think about. I have seen way too many people make a TCG and realize shortly afterng that they just don't have time to run it. I understand things come up, but usually you can predict how busy you will be or not. It makes me mad when I join a TCG and become quite active in it, yet a month later the owner claims no time and updates never happen. If you are about to start school then it makes sense to NOTa TCG right before unless you know time wont be a problem.

WHAT DO I WANT MY TCG TO BE ABOUT?

There are many different TCGs out there and this is a relevant question you need to consider. Do you wish a multi-animanga, game, music, or single-series TCG? There are many multi-series (especially animanga/game) TCGs out there yet you can still have a very popular TCG if you do some of the things I have listed on this site. If you decide to do a single series it is best to do a popular series such as Sailor Moon, Naruto, Fruits Basket, etc. For a single series TCG you probably should not choose some random series you may love, like Hana Yori Dango, for the simple fact that not many people may know of the series and thus you will not have many members. If member count isn't a problem then go right ahead!

HOW DO I WANT IT TO TURN OUT?

Decide on what you want to accomplish. If you want a lot of members, plan for that. If you want a huge TCG with a lot of cards, then plan for that also. There are many things you need to think about in this regard, but will leave those questions up to you.

HOW WILL I ACCOMPLISH THIS?

Figure out what you need to get things in motion. You will of course need an art program and a site. If you don't have either then don't make a TCG. You also need html and graphic skills. Your site depends on your knowledge in these fields so be sure you can handle what is needed.