This section - First Steps in Writing a Book - is recommended, but not always necessary.  Strict adherence to these "First Steps in Writing a Book" depend mostly on your organizational skills and the requirements of your publisher.

One of the most important first steps in writing a book is to choose your subject matter, one you know well and are passionate about.

Once your subject matter is selected, your first steps in writing a book should be to identify your audience - your driest tinder.  Book marketing is more successful when there is one large primary audience.

Another of your first steps in writing a book should include a book proposal which should comprise a book summary, a statement of "why this book is important", physical features, statement of "audience level", author's background, proposed table of contents with chapter summaries, and a list of potential platforms.  Begin your first steps in writing a book proposal, by clicking here for a free sample book proposal.  Remember, this is a work in progress and should be updated as your book develops.

Another one of your first steps in writing a book is to prepare an outline of potential book chapters.  Naming these helps in preparing a book outline; chapter titles should not be etched in stone as they are working titles.

Your first steps in writing a book should also include a working title as this will keep your writing focused.  Ultimately, your editor may suggests alternatives as in the case of Cynthia Doroghazi's first book.

Your first steps in writing a book almost definitely should include preparing an outline of your book.  Truthfully, of all of the first steps in writing a book you should consider, this is the most important because it keeps your book organized, focused and interesting to read.

Your first steps in writing a book necessitate writing in an environment that is both inspirational and suitable for deep thought and the creative process.  For most authors this is a place that is calming and free of distractions.

Our final recommendation for your first steps in writing a book pertain to our next subject area on how to publish a book.  All publishers, today, including New River Publications, LLC require electronic submission of manuscripts. Microsoft Word version 2003 and higher is recommended because your editor and publisher are almost definitely prepared to accept manuscripts as Microsoft Word files.

The above are the most important first steps in writing a book.  Remember, however, we are only an e-mail or telephone call away from answering questions you still may have about the first steps in writing a book that you should follow.  We are authors and know well the challenges authors face, especially when they are writing their first book.

Standard manuscript preparation guidelines

I want to write a book and get it published