How to Write Your Nonfiction Book: An Intuitive Step-by-Step Guide
Having published two nonfiction books and drafted a third, I can tell you that book writing it such a joy-filled and surprising adventure.
Whether you're compiling years of blog posts into a cohesive book, telling your story, or exploring an idea that's been tugging at your heart, this article will help you get started.
Of all the questions I receive from my students, the biggest one —
"How do I start my book?"
This question trips so many potential authors up.
Writing doesn't have to be overwhelming.
With these simple steps, you can channel your inspiration into a captivating book.
Why Book Planning?
I know the word "planning" can conjure images of rigidity and constraint. But trust me, having a plan actually gives you the freedom to explore your creativity. Think of it as setting up a safety net for yourself that allows you to take creative leaps without the fear of falling.
Planning is not about squeezing the life out of your writing and making it dull. It's about organizing your creative ideas so you can let them flow into an appropriate container. Imagine it like preparing your ship for a journey in an ocean of creativity. Once you set your sails, you're free to ride the waves wherever they carry you.
#1. Why You're Writing This Book
The heart of your writing project lies in your "why." Ask yourself why you want to write this book. For some, it might be about establishing authority in your field, while for others, it could be a passion project aimed at sharing a personal journey.
Understanding your motivation keeps you grounded on those days when writing feels like the last thing you have time for. Picture yourself six months from now holding a copy of your book, feeling the weight of your words in your hands. That vision can be your lighthouse guiding you through the fog and keeping you steady..
#2. Create Your Writing Routine
Once you've clarified your why, it's time to get practical. Creating a consistent writing routine is the foundation for a writing habit that feels like breathing. Decide when writing fits best into your day. Then, determine the optimal times for writing. Are you more creative in the early morning? Or does inspiration strike after sunset? There's no one-size-fits-all answer here — design a routine that matches your rhythm, which might change from time to time, too.
It might help to dedicate a specific spot as your writing sanctuary. Whether it's a cozy corner in your home, a library with a view, or a bustling café, having a dedicated space can boost creativity and focus. Your writing space doesn't have to be fancy — just somewhere you feel comfortable and inspired.
#3. Dream Big With a Mind Map
Ideas can be slippery. The best way to wrangle them and keep them front and center is with a mind map. This initial brain dump is your chance to untangle all those thoughts swirling around in your head. Centralize your main idea and start branching out. Then, see what comes up.
Mind mapping allows you to visualize the connections between ideas and helps uncover the themes that will shape your book. It's like creating a visual treasure map where each strand leads to a new discovery.
#4. Choose and Commit to Your Topic
Once your ideas are laid out, it's decision time. Picking your topic can be both exciting and terrifying. Trust your instincts here. Sometimes, the right topic is the one that feels almost too easy because it means you've been subconsciously gathering material for it for years.
Your topic is the foundation of your book, so ensure it truly fires you up. Since you'll spend a lot of time on it, it should be a subject you love or one you're intimately familiar with.
#5. Research (Optional)
Depending on your topic, you might need to do research before you begin writing. Consider gathering case studies, statistics, personal anecdotes, and interview content.
Research can also mean understanding where your book fits into the existing book world. Spend some time browsing the aisles of your local bookstore. Where would your book sit? Who would your readers be? Understanding your book's place can inform your writing and marketing strategies.
#6. Outline
Next, you can move your mind map to a loosely structured outline. Having an outline keeps you grounded and focused. Otherwise, you might jump into a writing session unsure where to begin.. A writing outline gives you support, but it should also be flexible enough to change if you decide to go a different route.
Your outline doesn't need to be intricately detailed at the start — it's more about providing a road map for your writing journey. You'll find that even a rough sketch of chapters can guide you through the writing process without wandering off course. Later on, you might reorganize your chapters too — I certainly did with each of my books.
#7. Start Writing
Now comes the fun part and what you've been preparing to do up until now — actually writing. This is where you let go of any perfectionist inclinations and just get the words out. Set yourself a reasonable goal — say 500 words a day or write for 30 minutes a day — and watch those words stack up over time.
It's important to highlight the difference between writing and editing. During drafting, wear your writer's hat. Let your sentences flow without hitting your backspace button. You can switch to editor mode and refine your work once your first draft is complete.
Consider using writing prompts to get those creative juices flowing or diving straight into your comfort zone with topics you're already familiar with. If you ever feel stuck, stepping away to gain perspective can lead to fresh insights.
#8. Make the most of Momentum
Writing a book is not a sprint — it's a marathon. And like any marathon, it's all about pacing and maintaining momentum. Celebrate small victories along the way, whether it's completing a particularly challenging chapter or hitting a new word count milestone.
Remember to give yourself grace and patience. Writer's block is literally not a thing when you stay in the flow. If ever feel stuck at the page, revisit your outline or mind map to see what comes up. You can also try looking at pictures online of your writing topic.
#9. Editing and Revising
Once your draft is complete, you'll begin editing. This is where your book starts to take shape. Later, you'll make it shine. Be prepared for multiple rounds of edits. Initially, focus on structural edits and then move on to finer details like grammar, word choice, variety, rhythm, and style.
Consider looking for beta readers who represent your target audience to help you refine here. Their feedback can offer valuable insight into what's working and what might need more clarity.
#10. Finalizing Your Book & Publishing
As your manuscript nears completion, you'll start addressing final touches like titling and preparing for publishing — like marketing, ordering ISBNs, updating or creating your author website.
I said book writing would be a long journey. And once you publish your book, in some ways, the work is only beginning. You'll be promoting to some degree for years.
Writing a nonfiction book is a transformative experience, not just for your readers but for you. It can also be incredibly healing.
Each step of the process, from the initial spark to the gratitude page, gives you an opportunity to learn more about yourself.
So grab your laptop, light a favorite candle, and settle into your sacred space to start writing. You've got a story to tell, and I can't wait to see where your words take you!
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