Have a great idea for a book? Marvelous! Here are some tips to keep in mind before and after writing your manuscript.
Points to consider before you start writing your story:
- Decide what you want to write about. Know your audience. Is your book aimed at adults, young adults, children, or all age groups?
- Research the number of pages that best-selling books contain, in their genre. This gives you an idea of how many pages your book might have.
- Decide if you want to make an outline. This can help you with the format of the chapters. Please note that not all authors write an outline.
- Research the elements of a good story. These elements are character, setting, plot, conflict, and theme. Within the plot are the introduction, rising action, climax, falling action, and resolution. The Harry Potter books contain these elements. This information can be easily found on the Internet.
- Have fun with the story elements. Let’s say you know how you want the story to end. Then start writing the ending. Who says you have to start at the beginning! The main thing is to start writing.
- Write every day.
- Write because it makes you happy.
- Keep in mind that your first draft is not your final draft.
Points to consider when your manuscript is finished:
a) Edition
Readers can stop reading a book that is full of errors. Have your manuscript professionally edited.
There are three types of editing.
- Substantive (developmental) editing: This type of editing looks at the structure and organization of the story.
- Copy Editing: This type of editing looks at grammar, word usage, and repetition.
- Proofreading: This type of editing analyzes spelling errors and punctuation.
If you’re not sure what type of editing your manuscript needs, consult a professional.
b) Type of publisher
- Traditional publisher: Most traditional publishers will only see your manuscript if it is given to them by a literary agent. It is often difficult to find a literary agent. Do some research and contact literary agents who work on books in your genre. Keep in mind that they are very busy.
- Desktop Publisher: Not all desktop publishers have the same level of experience. If a self-publisher wants to publish your manuscript (for a fee) without the manuscript being free of spelling errors, etc. don’t use them. They just want your money. Get in touch with some self-publishers and talk to them. Look at their reviews.
- E-Book Desktop Publishing: Find out how you can use Amazon Kindle Direct Publishing. Is there a cost involved?
c) Importance of professional coverage
- The book cover is what makes your target audience want to read your book. Make it stand out.
- If you plan to write sequels, consider how you can make your book covers similar but with different titles.
Above all, enjoy the process! Readers are waiting to read your story!
