Many kinds of books flood the bookstores. But only a few are picked up by readers. Various genres make their way to the shelves. Only some books rise up the charts!
Everyone accepts that every writer has the desire to be popular and also to make profits! There’s no fixed rule for success. Yet, by following a few thumb rules, one can at least avoid total disaster.
Did you decide on the topic of non-fiction for your book’s self-publishing?
Before plunging right into writing, let’s plan the steps of non-fiction writing. Let’s be clear about what a non-fiction book is, which topics you can write about, and what is required to complete the manuscript successfully.
What is a non-fictional book?
A non-fiction book is a literary work that tells you about facts & pieces of information, actual events, and real people. It is intended to inform or educate the reader about a particular subject, idea, or concept.
Topics of non-fiction:
Non-fiction books cover many topics, including history, science, biographies, memoirs, self-help, cookbook, book on sports, and more.
Writing a non-fictional book is an exciting and fulfilling endeavour. At the same time, it is daunting and overwhelming, especially if you are a first-time author.
To begin writing a Non-fictional book, there are some essential steps that you should follow.
Choose a topic/Choose your book-market
Choose a topic that you are passionate about. Be an expert in that area. Your topic should also be something that is of interest to readers. Naturally, it will have the potential to sell.
You can research- to find out what topics are in demand and what readers are looking for. You can also explore your own interests. See if there is a market for the topic you have in mind.
Once you have decided on a topic, be sure you have enough material to write a book on it. You can start by brainstorming. Provide an overview of the key points to be addressed.
Interact with your customers.
Interact with your customers to understand if the topic/content (you’ll write) is actually correct. Put out questions on ‘Quora’ and in other similar forums. You will find out whether you are in the right direction. Enquire how much people are interested in the subject.
It’s wise not to assume you know your customers better than they know themselves. Interact with them as much as possible. As you keep on developing it, keep sharing the work. You may be surprised to know that their ideas may be entirely different!
Research
After choosing your topic, the next step is to research it thoroughly. Your research should include reading books, articles, and papers related to the topic. Attend conferences and seminars. Converse with industry authorities for insights and expertise.
You should take notes and keep track of your sources. Make sure you can refer to them later. Your research should help you have a better understanding of the subject. You will be loaded with all the information you need.
And there! Write an informative and engaging book!
Develop an outline
Once you have completed your research, develop an outline for your book. Create a plan or roadmap for the content of your book. Outline the ideas or themes, the structure of the book, and the order of chapters or sections.
It can be done using many methods. You may use a simple bullet-point list, or a detailed diagram, or a mind map. A good outline can help focus. It clarifies the direction of the book. It also makes the writing process more efficient and effective.
Set a writing routine
Writing a Non-fiction book takes time and effort. So, you’ll have to find a writing schedule that works for you. Decide how much time you can allocate to writing each day or each week. Then create a timetable considering that.
You should also set deadlines for the completion of the book. This will help you to stay motivated and on track. It’s important to make writing- a priority and to find a routine that works for you.
Write a rough draft
With your outline and schedule in place, it’s time to start writing your rough draft. Your initial draft doesn’t have to be flawless. You shouldn’t worry too much about grammar, spelling, or formatting at this stage. The most important thing is to get your ideas down on paper and start building your book. You can revise and edit your draft later.
Revise and edit
After completing your rough draft, you should take a break from writing. Start again with fresh eyes. This is the time to revise and edit your book. Polish your ideas, and ensure clear and concise writing. Mind grammar, spelling, and punctuation. Maintain consistent formatting. It’s a good idea to take feedback from beta readers, writing groups, or professional editors at this stage.
Get feedback/Find a beta client/audience
Feedback can help you identify areas of your book that need improvements. They will provide you with ideas for making your writing better. You can ask friends, family, or colleagues to read your book and give you feedback. Or you can join a writing group or hire a professional editor.
It’s wise to listen to feedback and implement them to make your book the best. Revise your book as it’s needed for improvements or corrections.
Find a cover designer and an author-photographer.
Decide how you will publish your book- traditionally or self-publish
There are basically two options- traditional publishing and self-publishing. Traditional publishing involves submitting your manuscript to a publishing company, which will handle editing, formatting, printing, and distribution of your book. It will take much longer. Your work may not be accepted. Royalty received is much lesser.
Self-publishing, on the other hand, offers more control and flexibility. Associate with professional publishers such as White Magic Studios for a better outcome. Their services include editing & formatting, layouts, book covers, illustrations, creating trailers & websites for book marketing, e-book conversions, etc.
You can either use a print-on-demand service or publish electronically.
Promote.
Identify the target audience, build a platform, and utilize various marketing strategies. Social media, email marketing, book signings, podcasts, and guest blogging are some ways you can promote your book.
It also involves creating engaging content that resonates with readers, building relationships with influencers in your niche, and utilizing book review sites to generate buzz and credibility.
An animation video agency will help you to create trailers or animations, which will help you to promote your book.
Associate with book publishing companies such as White Magic Studios for your publishing requirements.
Successful writing!
