How to Write a Book: 13 Steps From a Bestselling Author

Summary

In this insightful script, the author, with over 40 years of experience, shares 13 foundational steps for writing a book, emphasizing quality over speed. From establishing a writing space to conducting research and self-editing, the guidance includes setting deadlines, crafting compelling beginnings and endings, and maintaining reader-first decisions. The script dispels the myth of quick success, advocating for a structured approach to tackle the 'marathon of the middle' and achieve a polished manuscript that resonates with readers.

Takeaways

• 📝 Establish a dedicated writing space that suits your needs, whether it's a makeshift desk or a quiet corner in your home.
• 🛠️ Assemble your writing tools; prioritize comfort and functionality, especially when it comes to your chair and computer setup.
• 📚 Break the book project into small, manageable pieces to avoid feeling overwhelmed by the enormity of writing a book.
• 💡 Settle on a big idea for your book that is substantial and has the potential to captivate readers and the marketplace.
• 📋 Construct an outline to provide direction for your writing, even if you are a 'pantser' who prefers to write by the seat of your pants.
• ⏰ Set a firm writing schedule with a sacred deadline to ensure consistent progress and to distinguish yourself from the majority of writers.
• 🔍 Conduct thorough research to lend credibility and specificity to your writing, whether it's fiction or nonfiction.
• 📖 Write a compelling first opener that will set the tone for your entire book and draw readers in from the start.
• 🔥 Fill your story with conflict and tension to keep readers engaged and turning the pages throughout your book.
• ✍️ Turn off your internal editor during the first draft to allow for uninhibited creativity and storytelling.
• 🏁 Write a resounding ending that leaves a lasting impression on readers, akin to the curtain closing on a successful Broadway play.
• 🎯 Become a ferocious self-editor, ensuring that your manuscript is polished to the highest standard before submission.

Q & A

What is the key point emphasized in the beginning of the script about writing a book?

The key point emphasized is that quality is more important than speed when writing a book. The author suggests focusing on foundational steps rather than quick-fix methods.

Why is establishing a writing space important according to the transcript?

Establishing a writing space is important because it provides a dedicated and comfortable environment for the writer to focus on their work, regardless of the actual location or setup.

What does the author suggest as the second step in the writing process?

The second step is to assemble your writing tools, which may include a laptop, a comfortable chair, and other necessary items that will facilitate the writing process without causing distractions.

How does the author recommend breaking down the task of writing a book?

The author recommends breaking the task into small pieces, comparing it to eating an elephant one bite at a time, to make the process more manageable.

What is the significance of having a 'big idea' for a book, as mentioned in the script?

A 'big idea' is significant because it provides a strong and lasting concept that can sustain the interest of the reader throughout the book and has the potential to stand out in the marketplace.

Why is constructing an outline important even for fiction writers who are 'pantsers'?

Constructing an outline is important for 'pantsers' because it gives them a direction for their story, even if it's just a simple idea on one side of a sheet of paper, and helps maintain the flow and structure of the narrative.

What is the 'marathon of the middle' and why is it a critical point in writing a book?

The 'marathon of the middle' refers to the challenging phase in the middle of writing a book where the initial excitement fades and the ending is not yet in sight. It's critical because this is where writers often lose momentum or interest, and it requires careful planning and pacing to keep the reader engaged.

Why is it essential to set a firm reading schedule and deadline for writing a book?

A firm reading schedule and deadline are essential to maintain discipline and ensure consistent progress towards completing the book. It also helps in meeting the expectations of publishers and readers.

What role does research play in both fiction and nonfiction writing according to the script?

Research plays a crucial role in both fiction and nonfiction writing by providing authenticity and credibility to the story or information presented. It helps in creating a believable narrative and enriching the content with specific details.

How does the author suggest handling the 'marathon of the middle' to keep the reader engaged?

The author suggests setting up payoffs and promising elements throughout the middle of the book to keep the reader engaged. For fiction, this could involve character development and plot twists, while for nonfiction, it could be the delivery of promised insights or information.

What is the importance of writing a compelling first opener according to the script?

Writing a compelling first opener is important because it sets the tone for the entire book and can captivate the reader's interest from the very beginning, encouraging them to continue reading.

Why should writers turn off their internal editor while writing the first draft?

Writers should turn off their internal editor during the first draft to allow for free-flowing creativity without the hindrance of perfectionism or self-criticism, ensuring that the story is fully developed before refining it.

What does the author mean by 'becoming a ferocious self-editor' and why is it necessary?

Becoming a ferocious self-editor means being aggressive and thorough in polishing the manuscript until it is of the highest quality. It is necessary because agents and editors can quickly discern the potential of a manuscript, and a well-polished work increases the chances of acceptance and success.

How can writers ensure their book ends with a resounding conclusion?

Writers can ensure a resounding conclusion by giving the ending the time and attention it deserves, considering multiple ideas, and choosing the one that is most emotionally impactful for the reader.