Writing a book has always been one of your dreams; now you’re ready to turn that dream into reality. But while many articles suggest that writing a book is simple — just follow their advice — in truth, it’s a lengthy and challenging journey. There are many factors to think about before you even begin.
To make things easier, we’ve put together a guide with the top tips on how to start writing your book. Let’s find it out.
Before starting to write a book
Before you even sit down at your laptop to write the first sentence, there are a few things you should do to set yourself up for success. This initial preparation will help make the writing process smoother.
1. Arrange your writing space
On the one hand, it is said that an author can write everywhere. For example, Jerry Jenkins shared that at the beginning of his career, he wrote on his couch facing a typewriter perched on a slab of wood suspended by two kitchen chairs.
However, creating a dedicated writing space is essential. It doesn’t have to be fancy — a corner of your bedroom, a quiet nook in the living room, or even a local café can work. The key is to have a consistent spot where you can focus.
This space should also be comfortable – a nice chair, good lighting, and a clutter-free desk can make all the difference.
2. Prepare the necessary writing tools
Before you start, gather the tools you’ll need. Whether it’s a laptop, a typewriter, or a notebook and pen, make sure you’re comfortable with your chosen medium.
Also, consider using writing software to organize your thoughts. Here are some tools you might like:
Before you start writing your book, try each app and choose the most convenient.
If you’re more into the traditional route, stock up on notebooks, sticky notes, and highlighters. Having everything ready will save you from unnecessary interruptions later.
3. Think about the writing schedule
Finding time to write can be challenging, especially if you have a busy life. Decide on a writing schedule that works for you. To do it, answer the following questions:
- At what time of day am I usually most productive?
- When do I have the most free time during the day or week?
- How can I schedule my writing sessions to maximize efficiency?
Set realistic goals, like writing for 30 minutes daily or hitting a word count target, and stick to them.
However, it can be hard to follow the schedule if you have a full-time job or a lot of household chores. Here, remember, it’s not about how much you write in one sitting but about showing up regularly. This ‘regularly’ can mean writing 2–3 times a week, not obligatory every day.
4. Read as many books in your genre as possible
Reading books in your genre is the best way to learn how to write. It is essential for understanding the conventions and expectations of your audience. Pay attention to how other authors structure their stories, develop their characters, and build their worlds. This will not only inspire you but also give you insight into what works and what doesn’t.
5. Study your perfect reader
Understanding your ideal reader will help you adjust your book to meet their expectations. Before starting writing, answer a few simple questions:
- Who are you writing for?
- What are their interests and preferences?
- How old are they?
- What do they like to read?
You can find more details on how to identify the target audience for your book in our blog post.
How to start writing a book
Now, it’s time to examine the aspects that directly relate to your story and the writing process. This is where you’ll start focusing on the elements that bring your narrative to life and shape your creative vision.
1. Decide on your book’s big idea
Every book starts with a big idea — a concept that excites you and can potentially engage readers. Whether it’s a fantasy epic, a mystery novel, or a self-help guide, make sure your idea is something you’re passionate about.
How do you know if your idea is big enough for a book? According to Jerry Jenkins, it’s the idea that sticks with you. Each time you think about it, it grows and becomes more expansive.
2. Break the process into small tasks
Writing a book can seem like a massive undertaking, but breaking it down into smaller tasks can make it more manageable. Start with a broad outline, then break into chapters, and finally into individual scenes or sections. Tackling one small task at a time can keep you from feeling overwhelmed.
3. Outline your story
Outlining can be a powerful tool to keep you on track. It doesn’t have to be overly detailed — just enough to give you a roadmap of where your story is going. Some writers prefer a detailed outline, while others might opt for a more flexible approach.
Remember that the outline serves you, not you serve the outline – so change it whenever you want. For outlining, you can use helpful tools and software, for example:
If you’re new to book planning, here’s a tip from bestselling author and writing professor Brandon Sanderson: start by building your book around a story you genuinely love. Take the story down to its fundamental outline, and figure out what it is about the characters, the world, and the conflicts that struck you the most. String your story around this base – you can even try a different genre and get an incredible result.
4. Work out the characters, worldbuilding, and setting
Characters are the heart of any story, so spending time developing them is essential. Here are some tips:
- Get to know their backstories and what’s shaped them into who they are.
- Understand what motivates them — what drives them, what they’re afraid of, and what they want most.
- Give them unique personalities with quirks, flaws, and strengths that make them feel real and relatable.
Your characters also need a world to live in, which should be as detailed and lively as they are. Whether it’s a small town or a fantasy world, the setting plays a crucial role in shaping your story. A well-thought-out world can influence your characters’ impressions, making the story more immersive. So, take the time to build this world, thinking about its geography, culture, and social dynamics.
5. Conduct your research
Research is a vital part of writing, especially if your book touches on historical periods, different cultures, or specialized topics you’re not familiar with. Good research adds authenticity and depth to your story, making it more credible to readers.
To start, explore various sources:
- Books offer in-depth knowledge
- Documentaries provide visual insights
- Interviews with experts or people with firsthand experience can give you unique perspectives
- Online resources like academic articles and reputable websites can fill in any gaps.
As you gather information, keep your notes organized so you can easily reference them later. The goal is to blend your research into your story naturally, adding richness without overwhelming readers.
6. Participate in the NaNoWriMo challenge
If you want to kickstart your writing, consider participating in National Novel Writing Month – NaNoWriMo. The challenge is to write 50,000 words in November. Sure, you might not finish it successfully, but you’ll have laid a solid foundation for your book. Plus, knowing that you’re writing alongside hundreds of thousands of writers worldwide is inspiring and motivating.
7. Start considering yourself as a writer
This might be the most essential step. Embrace the identity of being a writer, even if you haven’t published anything yet. It’s about mindset — believing in yourself and your abilities. You’re more likely to take your work seriously when you see yourself as a writer.
How to stay motivated while writing a book
If you’re worried that you won’t be inspired enough to work on your book and don’t even want to start, we have some tips on how to stay motivated.
1. Embrace procrastination
Yes, you read that right. Procrastination isn’t always the enemy. Sometimes, it’s your brain’s way of processing ideas in the background. Don’t beat yourself up over it — just make sure it doesn’t completely stop your progress. A short break can often lead to a breakthrough.
2. Turn off your internal editor
During the first draft, you should focus on getting the story out, not on making it perfect. Turn off your internal editor and allow yourself to write freely. You can always go back and revise later.
3. Find a partner in crime
Writing can be lonely, so finding a writing buddy can be invaluable. They can provide feedback and encouragement. Plus, it’s fun to have someone to share the highs and lows of the writing process with.
4. Join online writing sessions
If you struggle to stay motivated, joining online writing sessions can help. Platforms like Zoom, Discord, or even YouTube offer timed writing sprints where you can write alongside others. That atmosphere can be incredibly motivating.
For example, here are some YouTube channels where online writing sessions occur periodically:
5. Don’t compare yourself to other writers
It’s easy to fall into the trap of comparing yourself to other writers, but remember that everyone’s journey is different. Somebody writes one book per year, another – one book in a decade. It’s normal and doesn’t make anyone better or worse authors.
Focus on your progress and celebrate your unique voice and story.
What mistakes do authors make before writing a book?
Finally, let’s overview some common mistakes writers make when they are about to start writing a book.
1. Overplanning the story
Planning is essential, but overplanning can actually stifle your creativity. If you are stuck in endless details and outlines, take a step back. Give yourself some breathing room to be spontaneous and let your story develop naturally as you write.
2. Ignoring genre conventions
Every genre has its conventions — elements that readers expect and enjoy. Ignoring these can lead to a disappointed audience. Learn the tropes and expectations of your genre, and then decide how to meet or subvert them in your way.
3. Lack of research
A lack of research can lead to inaccuracies, turning readers off. Ensure you’ve done your homework, mainly if your book covers unfamiliar territory. This lends credibility to your work and enhances the reader’s experience.
To wrap up
So, you want to write a book? Awesome! It’s a big deal, but don’t let it scare you off. With a bit of planning and determination, you can turn your story into reality.
First, set yourself up for success with a comfy writing spot, the right tools, and a realistic schedule. Then, dive into the fun part: creating and outlining your story. And remember, it’s okay to procrastinate a little and make mistakes – everyone does.
Most importantly, believe in yourself and your writing. Find your motivation, whether it’s writing buddies, online communities, or just plain stubbornness.
Do you face any challenges before starting to write a book? Share your experience in the comments.
