Do you want to write a book but have no idea how and where to start? This is the most common problem beginners face. Imagine writing something without any guidelines. It will be merely a story, perhaps a drastically dull one. No one would want to write a book like that with no rhythm, no balance, no proper storyline, a confusing timeline, and so on. This blog will let you know how to write a book like a non-fiction book and what are the key elements.
Before starting with writing let’s find out what fiction writing is.
What is Non-Fictional Writing?
Non-fiction book writing is something that is based on real facts. The ideas are based on a real story or taken from the real world. Unlike fictional books like Harry potter, non-fiction book are based on real ideas or stories. Maybe the biography of any movie star, a memoir of any successful businessman, or, any information based on a real-life story or just to share more information on certain fields like medicine, astronomy, etc.
Writing a non-fiction book can be a challenging but rewarding experience. Whether you’re an individual author or a book writing company this step-by-step guide will help you take your ideas from concept to print.
Step 1: Choose Your Topic
This is a no-brainer, first, you have to select a topic before starting to write. Begin with brainstorming your ideas, and find what topics or niches will be a good starter for you. Something you are already passionate about, or a topic that is so close to your heart that you always wanted to write. Consider your expertise and background, whether you have a basic know-how of the topic or not.
People usually miss out on one thing here. Writing with a motive. Assume you’re writing something without having any aim in your mind. Do you think that book will turn out any good? While choosing the topic, try to solve a problem. This pointer will help you a lot in your story and plot too.
You can also do some research on the trending topic. Which topics and niches are usually the best seller or in popular demand?
Step 2: Find your target audience
You want your book to get good reviews, right? Then this step holds major significance. If you want your book to run long-term, you need to consider your target audience. Answer one thing before writing. “Who are you writing for”? Is it for Gen Z, teenagers, etc. Make it clear to you about your audience. It will not only help in writing but would also help in your writing style and tone.
For instance, writing something for teens in a rather simple manner would be a good idea.
While writing, you will know who you’re talking to and what sort of content they understand. This makes your book a better fit for your audience and would give you a clear edge over others. Your readers could connect to the book, and if other aspects are good too. Your readers would appreciate it and won’t stay back to give it a good review.
Step 3: Outline Your Book
Once you have a clear understanding of your topic and audience, it’s time to create an outline of your book. This will not only help you organize your ideas and points in the book but ensure that you’re not missing out on anything. Outline itself is a guideline for how to start your book, which turns it takes, and ultimately what destination it reaches with the climax. An outline doesn’t only mean naming your chapters. Add more details to each chapter and what evidence or examples you’ll need to support your argument. This will keep you on track while writing.
Step 4: Research Your Topic
One thing that can plummet your book from ten to zero is inaccuracy. When a reader purchases any book, they put their trust in the author that all the information given in the book is backed by authentic and reliable sources of information. Before you start writing, make sure you research your topic thoroughly. No matter how much expertise you already have on your topic, you need to research first. This step will not only make your book factually accurate but will also come up with supporting information for your book.
Try reading academic journals, and sources or simply meeting other authors or experts to gather more information. You might end up with inspiration too.
Step 5: Start Writing
Here comes the most important part, writing. This can be challenging, to begin with, but trust me once you’re done with a detailed outline, your writing part will become much easier. It’s almost impossible that your first draft turns out perfect, so have some patience. Don’t worry about making your book perfect at this stage. It’s too soon. Instead, try to pour down what you had in mind before it starts to vanish. While writing, keep your audience in mind and write as if you’re narrating your story to someone in particular. This will help you connect with your audience.
Step 6: Revise and Edit
Once you’re done with the writing part, this is the time you revise or edit your book. Give your draft a read and mark the parts which you think you can improvise. Consider your tone, writing style, and grammar while editing to polish your draft. Make changes to make your writing smooth and fluent while reading. Check if your book has that suspense because you don’t want your readers to predict your book. Make your writing engaging so you can hook your raiders and they would want to learn more about what’s going to happen next.
A bonus tip here is to consult beta readers. Other people can read your book and give you better feedback. This will help you edit your book before it’s out in your reader’s hands.
Step 7: Prepare Your Book for Printing
Your effort doesn’t end at the writing part. Now prepare yourself for the printing and publishing part. After writing, your book needs some formatting to make it suitable for printing. Get your book cover designed by a professional designer and add an interesting intro to add in it. If you’re self-publishing you’ll need more research on the market and audience.
Wrap up
Writing a non-fiction book can be a rewarding experience, but it takes time, effort, and dedication. By following these six steps, you can take your ideas from concept to print and create a book that you’ll be proud to share with the world.
