Writing a non-fiction book is in some ways, different from writing novels and stories. You may be passionate about putting your ideas into words but without proper groundwork, there is a possibility of failure. Here are some tips on how to prepare and write a successful non-fiction book.
“Writing is an exploration. You start from nothing and learn as you go”
~ E. L. Doctorow ~
Many avid writers who feel passionate about a specific story or topic can’t wait to put words on paper to tell the world about it. Same is the case when writing a non-fiction book. But since writing a non-fiction book is quite different as compared to writing novels and stories, novice writers often tend to make mistakes. That’s why in today’s article, we will share a few tips on how to prepare and write a fantastically successful non-fiction book.
The Topic – Decide What You Will Write
This may sound a bit cliché, but choosing the topic is the most important aspect of writing a non-fiction book. This is mainly because if you just start off writing a non-fiction book without any focus on a specific topic, you could end up with just about anything. Your dialogue may become repetitive or you might even end up with a whole different book than what you intended. Therefore, choose a topic you are interested in writing, and one that is also relevant to your target audience. This way, you will be able to provide focus for your book while maintaining the interest of your readers at the same time.
Ensure There Is a Market for Your Book
When choosing the topic or genre, ensure that there is a market for your book. This is mainly because a book without a reader is a lonely, pitiful object without value or purpose. By determining your market beforehand and writing to meet the market’s needs, you will ensure an audience of readers before you even start writing.
A Content Plan – Create the Chapters
As mentioned earlier, writing a non-fiction book is different than writing storybooks and novels. When writing a non-fiction book, you can’t come up with chapters while writing the content. In fact, you need to create a content plan and make the chapters beforehand. Once you’ve written out all of the chapters, write a paragraph or two below each chapter that elaborates on the key points. The process is similar to creating an outline or a table of contents for your book; making it easier to discuss different topics and organize them accordingly. Ultimately, this will help you focus on your main topics/subjects and keep you from discussing other matters that don’t pertain to your book.
Research – The Key to Success
There is no harm in writing a book “off the top of your head” if you’re an expert on the subject matter. But often, doing so can lead to writer’s block and therefore slow down the writing process. The process will flow a lot smoother if you research your topic and include all important ideas and points in the table of contents you have created. Then, simply use your researched facts as plug-ins to compliment the areas of expertise that you’ve written about.
Last, but not the least, hire a professional editor to avoid any delays when releasing and marketing your book. By following these tips, you will successfully be able to prepare and write a non-fiction book.
Creative Writing: Finding Your Inspiration
Every writer needs to find inspiration in order to produce inspired writing - whether it is in the form of a novel, short story, poetry, song or even a simple blog post or journal entry. You don’t have to live an extraordinary life to find sources of inspiration for creative writing. They are all around you. Below are some of the most common sources of inspiration that can be used to produce a masterpiece.
Co-Author: Writing a Book in Collaboration
These days, authors often collaborate with each other to produce the best work possible. By collaborating with another author of the same mind, the two of you may be able to produce a successful masterpiece that is esteemed by millions. The goal of producing a top-selling book may feel more reachable if you have the support of a co-author. Consider the following tips and you’re well on your way to the bestselling list!
A Discussion of the Self-Publishing Model
With the rise of self-publishing, a new niche of independent or indie authors has emerged. There are pros and cons to everything, and self-publishing is not exempt from this unwritten concept. Without the assistance of service companies, one might wonder if self-publishing has a broad scope. It’s up to you to decide whether the pros outweigh the cons. Once you decide which path to take, go for it and give it all you’ve got!
