Learn the basic steps towards a best-selling book
Writing a book involves work and method. New writers have always raised the question: how do you write a book?
Fortunately, writing is something anybody can. A book is a collection of ideas, memories, thoughts and emotions. There are many ways of getting a new book on the shelves of the world’s largest bookshops.
To start writing a book, you don’t need a title, index or summary. You can start writing simply because you’ve had a few interesting ideas. Why don’t you take notes? If you’re having your first morning coffee, go ahead and write down a few topics or complete paragraphs.
A white book page can be written anywhere and anytime. If you’re not in a hurry to get that book finished, you can let time inspire your own words. Some people prefer to write down short phrases so that longer ideas can come later.
It is also very important to believe in what you’re doing. Writing a book is a personal view, so your words should express your beliefs. Don’t judge yourself and your words. Get going.
There is also an excellent method for writers who enjoy organization and discipline. Here are the basic steps to writing a book with a well-structured plan:
1. Find a title that suits the overall book summary idea. Now, you’ve got a provisional title.
2. Write a brief book summary that may tell the story of your work in two paragraphs.
3. List several chapters and sub-chapters that may get into your book.
4. Start writing the first words and lines of your book from the beginning.
5. As soon as your book gets a good writing rhythm, review your provisional index and correct what you think should be fixed.
6. Manage your writing times. Try to identify the best moments for pushing your new book forward. Is it after lunch? Does your pen flow better at night?
7. Never miss an idea. The worst times may enlighten you with a few thoughts. Write them down on your computer, mobile phone or Moleskine.
8. Keep the writing pace. If you feel you’re doing well by writing two A4 pages per day, try to discipline yourself to this writing rhythm.
9. Do not set a pre-defined number of pages for your book. There is no magic number. Less is more.
10. Re-read and review your book draft once finished, but only one week after writing your last sentence.
Writer’s block only happens in the mind. Yes, you can write a book and yes, you can write a best-selling book. Go for it and let your ideas flow free. A book has a beginning and an end.
