How to Start Writing a Book

A step-by-step walkthrough to get writers started

There is a saying that goes, that everyone has at least one good book in them.

And I do believe this is true. However, I also believe that there are many people who don’t know how to get this book down on paper. Which causes them to never write the book in the first place.

So let me help you get started.

Find Your ‘Why’

Every book begins with a spark — an idea, a question, or a desire to share something meaningful. Before anything else, you need to know why you’re writing this book.

Maybe you are writing something based on life experience. Maybe you feel as if the genre you love to read in is missing a story and you are the one to fill the void. Or just maybe you have this idea in your head for as long as you can remember, making you want to see if anything can happen with it.

This is how so many books begin.

Rather than simply saying “I want to write a book,” turn this into action: “I felt it first as a whisper in the quiet hours — an idea too persistent to ignore.”

Reflect on your passion for the project. This “why” will guide you through the tough moments when you feel stuck.

Choose Your Genre and Audience

Who are you writing for, and what will they get from your book? Narrowing down your genre and audience will give you focus.

Many writers choose to write in a genre they love to read in, mostly because it’s familiar. By doing this, they already know the common tropes, story structures, and what they can do differently. But don’t be afraid to try a genre outside your comfort zone. Just be sure to read some books in the genre beforehand.

As for the audience, this can be a whole other ballgame.

Describe the kind of reader sitting with your book. What are they feeling, and how is your book answering their needs or desires? Picture your ideal reader. Write a few sentences as if you’re describing them to a friend.

Doing a description of your ideal reader is going to help you write and market a story that will find that reader.

Develop Your Idea

Whether you’re a plotter or a pantser, every writer needs to nurture their idea before they begin writing.

This can be as simple as writing out the main plot ideas in bullet points. It can be as elaborate as outlining the book chapter by chapter. The point of nurturing this idea of yours is making sure that you have a base to jump from and a path to follow.

Spend time fleshing out your concept. Use mind maps, brainstorming sessions, or even conversations with others to expand on your core idea.

The more that you plan for your book ahead of time, the quicker the writing process will go. And even if you plan the whole book ahead of time, there is always the option to look back at that roadmap and change something for the better.

Create a Writing Routine

The difference between wanting to write a book and actually writing one often comes down to discipline and routine.

Setting aside solid writing time each day or week is key to the success of writing your book. And once this sacred writing time is set in place, try your absolute best not to change it or sacrifice it. Because once it happens once, it’s likely to happen again.

Start by deciding what time of the day is best for you to write and be productive.

Once you figure this out, then decide how long you want to set aside for writing. And be sure that you are writing in a productive environment. One that won’t bring distractions.

Start small. Commit to writing a set number of words or for a set time every day, even if it’s just 15 minutes.

Embrace the Messy First Draft

Perfectionism can kill creativity. Allow your first draft to be a raw, imperfect exploration.

Set realistic expectations for yourself. Your first draft is meant to be messy. Write now, edit later.

Having a first draft completed is half the battle.

Knowing that your book will go through various edits, and turn into two or three more drafts during the process is a key to moving through it. And that having alpha and beta readers who provide grammar and developmental editing is how your book gets better. But know that investing money in a professional editor is how you get your book reader ready.

For more information see, Authors Need Three Types of Readers to Ensure a Polished Published Book.

Stay Motivated and Overcome Doubts

Every writer faces doubt. The key is not to let it stop you.

Celebrate small milestones, find a support group, and remind yourself that every author feels doubt.

There are lots of authors on social media and in your chosen genre who are willing to connect, share advice, and boost one another. Take advantage of this and know that building a community for yourself within the writing community is the key to keeping yourself going.

No matter how long the road feels, know that if you dedicate yourself to your book, you will end up with something amazing at the end.

For more information, see Dedication to Authorship and 5 Things to Do Before Self-Publishing a Book.