We all crave that feeling of achieving something to gain meaning in our lives. Knowing that our words or actions helped transform someone’s life is a beautiful feeling of satisfaction. It fills us with contentment. Writing a book is somehow very similar.
If you have ever felt inspired by a character or story while reading a book, you can easily understand what I mean. If you have ever wondered about writing a book just like your favorite author but don’t know how to, then this blog will help you.
Writing is an escape for many of us, but it is a skill that relies on creativity, accuracy, attention, persistence, and planning. That’s why most of us wish to write a book but are hesitant to begin. The process of writing a book overwhelms us.
In this 14-step guide for writing a book as a new author, we delve into everything you must know and consider starting your journey of becoming a bestselling author (even if it’s your first time writing a book!)
14 Steps to Writing a Book
The 14 steps to writing an excellent book, even as a new author, are:
1. A Place to Write
This step is non-negotiable. Everything in your home has a place. You shower in your bathroom, cook in your kitchen, and sleep in your bedroom. Similarly, you must have a nook, a table, or a coffee shop nearby dedicated to writing.
This will help you work efficiently because if you are in that space, you are only there for one purpose: writing. This strategy will also help you focus on the writing task.
2. Tools and Equipment
Having a writing space means you can have everything you need stored there. Having things aligned beforehand automatically eliminates any forthcoming hassles. If you are not writing on paper, you must have your computer/laptop, keyboard, charger, etc. If you are writing the traditional way, you should have everything, such as pens, paperclips, journals, ink, note pads, pencil holders, etc.
3. Choose a Genre
Now that you have a writing a book space and tools, it is time to choose your best book’s genre. The genre you will choose will help you decide the kind of characters you want to include in your book and how the story will begin and end. Selecting the book book genre beforehand will give more structure to your writing as you will know what genre rules you must adhere to.
4. Think and Imagine
Of course, writing is a creative skill. Your imagination and power to think is what your book will depend on. Think about all the books you’ve read in the same genre you chose for your book. Think about what elements were extra or missing. Force your mind to expand on every little detail. Then, link all those ideas and thoughts to your fantastical imagination. I bet it is the most epic combo ever!
5. Settle on an Idea
Once you’re done thinking, settle on the best book idea that intrigues you the most. It would be best if you always wrote about things that force you to think beyond your understanding because the most unusual things interest us humans.
6. Research
Research as much as you can. Read books, watch movies, TV shows, and documentaries, surf the internet, talk to your friends, and look for articles and videos. Don’t confine your research to one source or person.
The more you know about a topic, the better your storybook will be. You can make a questionnaire and online surveys if you need a second opinion. The point is to consume as much information and knowledge as you can.
7. Make a Schedule
Don’t just write whenever you have a few minutes to spare. Make a schedule and dedicate a chunk of your productive hours to writing a book. Doing so will give you more time to write a book, and your mind will be prepared as it will be a crucial part of your daily routine. You should spend at least 60 to 60 minutes writing daily or 6 to 7 hours weekly.
8. Choose your Audience
Before you dive deep into a story, you should know what kind of readers you want to attract. For example, if you are writing a horror/thriller/mystery, you must decide how intense the story will be. If your target audience is under 18, then it shouldn’t be too intense, but if you aim to write for people older than 18, you can create a rather fierce story that requires more attention to detail.
9. Write a First Draft
After gathering all the details, it is time to start writing. Write a first draft (5 to 6 chapters) and then read it closely to make things easy. The first few chapters will help you point out any mistakes you are making. You can also show your friends or mentor the first draft and ask for their opinion. This will save you time when writing the second or final draft and clarify things.
10. Begin with a Bang
Not just endings but beginnings matter, too. Your book should start with a bang. The reader should be hooked as soon as they are done reading the first paragraph. Make sure your ideas are delivered. Avoid using complex words and sentences to enhance the readability of your text.
11. Construct Compelling Characters
Your story depends on your characters. If you create ordinary characters, your story will automatically become basic. If you build unconventional characters, your story will most likely become extraordinary.
Why are people obsessed with books such as ‘Harry Potter,’ ‘Hunger Games,’ and ‘The Fault in Our Stars?’ Because they have extraordinary and versatile characters like Katniss Everdeen, Hermione Granger, and Augustus Waters.
12. Add Drama, Conflict, Suspense
Fill your story with dramatic expressions and conflict and tension among the characters. Nobody will be interested in reading a straightforward narrative. We all enjoy suspense and cliffhangers. Give your audience what they want! If they enjoy reading a thriller, add twists and turns to your story and leave your audience wondering.
13. Learn to be Exhausted
This should be the biggest takeaway from this blog. You must know that you will be exhausted. You will feel drained, and maybe you will cry too. Nothing in this life is easy. That concept does not apply to reality.
Writing a book is daunting, and writing a book is even more depleting. It would be best to understand that you will be tired and frustrated in this process, which is okay. Just walk, have an ice cream, and cry a little. You will be alright!
14. Outsource your problems
Life is short. Being an author won’t make you immortal. You don’t have to do everything yourself, buddy. It’s 2023, and you can find plenty of help. You can seek professional help for your book. Many service providers are willing to make things more convenient for you.
If you cannot meet the desired word count for your book, look for a developmental editor. If you are struggling to edit out any grammatical or spelling errors, a proofreader will do it for you. If you are lazy or too busy to write your book but have a mind-boggling idea, hire a ghostwriter.
Now, you must be wondering where to find these angels who will do the tough job for you. Just google Universal Ghostwriter, click on their website and explain your project and requirements. The rest will be taken care of.
Conclusion
Writing a book is somehow tricky and time-consuming. At the same time, it is worth the hassle. As a new author, you can easily get overwhelmed with everything you must do to achieve your desired results. I hope this guide will help you write a book readers will love!
