How to write a book – the short honest truth

Every author I know gets asked the same question: How do you write a book?

It’s a simple question, but it causes problems. On the one hand, it’s nice to have people interested in something I do. If I told people I fixed toasters for a living, I doubt I’d get many inquires. People are curious about writing and that’s cool and flattering. Rock on.

But on the other hand, the hand involving people who ask because they have an inkling to do it themselves, is that writing books is a topic so old and so well trod by so many famous people that anyone who asks hoping to discover secret advice is hard to take seriously.

Here’s the short honest truth: 20% of the people who ask me are hoping to hear this – Anyone can write a book. They want permission. The truth is you don’t need any. There is no license required. No test to take. Your book idea is worth writing if you think it is. Writing, as opposed to publishing, requires almost no financial or physical resources. A pen, paper and effort are all that has been required for hundreds of years. If VoltaireMarquis de Sade and Marina Nemat could write in prison, then you can do it in suburbia, at lunch, at work, or after your kids go to sleep. You will always find excuses if you want them and most people do. Why? Writing is work. No matter how smart you are or how great your idea is, you will have to put in the time and no one else can do it for you.

It helps to kill the magic: a book is just a bunch of writing. Anyone can write a book. It might be bad or be incomprehensible, but so what: it’s still a book and many published authors haven’t done any better.

Nothing is stopping you right now from collecting all of your elementary school book reports, a years worth of emails you wrote, or drunken napkin scribbles, binding them together at Kinkos for $20, slapping a title on the cover, and qualifying as an author. Want to write a good book? Ok, but get in line since most pro authors are still trying to figure that out too.

Writing a good book, compared to a bad one, involves one thing. More work. No one wants to hear this, but if you take two books off any shelf, I’ll bet my pants the author of the better book worked harder than the author of the other one. Call it effort, study, practice, or whatever you like. Sure there are tricks here and there, but really writing is a kind of work. I like this though: it means anyone who puts in enough time can actually write well. Some of our best writing comes from ordinary people from all walks of life.

Getting published. 30% of the time the real thing people are asking is how do you find a publisher. As if there wasn’t a phone book or, say, an Internet-thingy where you can look this stuff up (start with Jane Friedman’s website). Writers-market is literally begging to help writers find publishers. Many publishers, being positive on the whole idea of communication, put information on how to submit material on their website. And so do agents. The grand comedy of this is how few writers follow the instructions. That’s what pisses off all the editors: few writers do their homework.

The sticking point for most people who want to be authors is, again, the work. They want to hear a secret that skips over the work part. Publishers are rightfully picky and they get pitched a zillion books a day. It takes effort to learn the ropes, send out smart queries, and do the research required to both craft the idea for a book, and then to propose it effectively. So while writing is a rejection prone occupation, even for the rock-stars, finding a publisher is not a mystery. In fact the whole game is self-selective: people who aren’t willing to do the work of getting published are unlikely to be capable of the work required to finish a decent manuscript.

But that said – it’s easier today to self-publish than ever. People look down on self-publishing, but I don’t see why. When people buy books it’s not like they care who published them (“Oh, I don’t read Random House books, sorry”): they only care who recommended or reviewed the book. But again, our tragically unpopular companion, work, is required to self-publish so many prefer to keep asking writers how they got published instead of just doing it themselves. You can read what I learned from self-publishing the first time here (although the technology and options have improved since then).

Being famous and wealthy: Now this is the kicker. About 50% of the time the real thing people want to know is how to become a famous millionaire rock-star author person. As if a) I qualified, b) I could explain how it happened, or c) I’d be willing to tell.

First, this assumes writing is a good way to get rich. I’m not sure how this lie started but writing, like most creative pursuits, has always been a less than lucrative lifestyle. Even if a book sells well, the $$$ to hour ratio will be well below your average corporate job, without the health benefits, sick days, nor the months where you can coast by without your boss noticing. These days people write books after they’re famous, not before. A book can help you gain professional credibility, but then it’s more of a marketing project than a writing project, isn’t it?

And if the only books you read are bestsellers, well, you have a myopic view of the publishing world. Over 100k books are published in the US annually, and few sell more than a few thousand copies. What causes books to sell may have little to do with how good a book is, as we’ve all been mystified by the abysmal bestsellers and surprised by amazing books few seem to know about. Either way, to justify the effort you’ll need reasons other than cash.

Discouraged yet? Here is the upside: I love writing books. I love reading books. Books have profound powers and they’ve changed my life so many times. Maybe the bittersweet challenge of chasing words into sentences suits you. If you want to do this you have my support. GO YOU. Sincerely. I am behind you. But thinking about writing isn’t writing. Talking about it isn’t either. Commit to 10 hours of effort (basically a weekend or two). Write an outline or even just a few pages of a chapter. Take a course that focuses on actual writing and getting feedback. If it feels hard but rewarding, keep going. If it doesn’t, well I think you know.

Here are some practical next steps:

[Light editing: 10/7/2019, 2/4/2021]

 

1,305 Responses to “How to write a book – the short honest truth”

  1. Athena

    My reply to the moron who can’t get over the THEN/THAN mistake. Qualified to give advice? I think that “reader” is qualified for one thing and its(and no asshole I don’t mean it’s, I mean YOU) your book should be entitled “Blind Rage and the Downward Spiral”.

    As to the article, I agree… the bottom line is there is no advice more than just DO IT. The “klondike bar” above didn’t quite grasp. Thanks for the post Scott

    Reply
  2. joe

    Hey Scott,
    I am 17 and have been capsized by fiction writing since I could scribble with crayons.
    I came across your site and thought it was cool.
    I read your thing on how to write a book, you were blunt but you came off understanding. thanks so much for adding tinder to the needed fire under my butt to get me writing again.
    peace from Indiana,
    joe

    Reply
  3. Renee Carey

    Thank you for your frankness. It’s refreshing. How many people have you heard say the following: “I want to write because I love to write and I have, what I feel, is a unique experience to share and possibly help someone with.”? I know self-help types of books are usually not best sellers and although money is tucked somewhere in my mind it’s not my motivation. All I really want to know is how do I get started? Do I go back through all the journals and notes I’ve accumualted over the years and try to somehow put them all together in a collection of boring testimonials or is there a better place to start? Should I get education on how to write properly before I even start to put fingers to keyboard or should I just wing-it?

    Thank you, Renee Carey

    Reply
  4. Barry Bennett

    Scott, as a former radio talker and unpublished author,I’m facinated by the snobs and grammer-groin-kickers. Thanks for sharing your ideas and thoughts, knowing that many Community College English profs will shred your work.Half of Americans think that 90% of what they read is crap.Point is…stop trying to be the next Hemingway,unless you own property in Havana, and just tell me a story. While you lose mind over grammer,I’ve lost my way through your story. Just because you sang Happy Birthday, doesn’t make you a singer. (My God that’s deep ain’t it?)

    Reply
  5. Angela S

    In researching the web, I have seen mostly negative comments about writing a book. The company I work for is closing its doors and I will soon be out of a job. After taking a resume and interview class to find out what my strengths were and what I am drawn to, it became very clear that I am addicted to reading and writing! My priorities have changed from the corporate world to one of making sure I do what I really want while I am still young enough to think clearly. I am taking a job in a book store, so that I may be near what I love and I am attempting a book that is not all me, but a contribution from many. A portion of what I make, will be give to research for Alzehiemers to help find a cure. This is very close to my heart since it runs on both sides of my family. If I somehow survive that, then I will attempt something entirely on my own, as I have a few ideas. Maybe, just maybe, I will simply be happy just knowing that I have given something back, that is, if I REMEMBER it! Thanks for listening and if anyone has any advice, I certainly welcome it.

    Reply
  6. The Baldchemist

    Ha ha. Nice one Scott. Take away the bullshit get creative and work. No secret is it?
    I don’t know- never educate a mug.
    Thanks for your very poignant observations. Tell ’em the way it is. The Baldchemist.

    Reply
  7. Tobias Cattrall

    ok so im 17 and i have a great idea for a book, i always loved stories and stuff but writing is so boring. i have written a few short stories in the past couple years but this one really is the grand master. i’m writing one and my best mate is writing it’s counterpart. i ave all te complicated inter-twinings of te book worked out in my head but getting the colours from my head to a publisher who will like them seem so far away. i don’t know what im asking for really, im just going to concentrate on getting the colours out of my head and into some sort of comprehencible order. can someone atleast tell me im not wasting my time and lunatics can write books too?

    Reply
  8. Camci

    Truth is, I, like many folks, look to writing as a way of answering questions, acting out thoughts, and capturing dreams. Organizing all of this into a comprehensible manuscript is another story. Such a practice requires the use of both sides of the brain. Since my left side was removed at birth and replaced with kapoc, it leaves me at a distinct disadvantage. But hey, the journey is the reward.

    Reply
  9. pauld

    I like this website. It tells the truth. It is all work when writing anything: marketing, sales, fiction, how-to or corporate action plans. I’m into my 12th month of a how-to book. It something I have 25+ years experience doing and 12+ years owning a company that provided for this. I wanted to write it in 1998, corporate America wanted me more.

    Two years ago I changed my life enough to have time for it and I still didn’t do it. The people that surround my life encouraged me so much, I finally began in late 2006. Since then, I have a second job working the night shift after working all day. It is my book. No surprise here! I should have my first draft ready by the end of March 2008. There are no shortcuts, only cutshorts.

    Reply
  10. Rookaponz

    I had to laugh at the comments by “unpublished but better than you”. That user name alone would be enough to let one know that he/she may be coming from a place of superiority. Defenders of the English language aside… I want to tell the story of my parents emigration to America and the many misadventures they had along the way. I won’t have much trouble with the dialog or how to flesh out the story, but I would like some ideas on how to outline the story before I begin putting all my ideas together. I keep thinking that I need to build a framework for the story first before I start putting all the ideas in my head to paper. Is there a rule of thumb that anyone knows on how to create an outline for a story and how to know where one chapter ends and another begins. I don’t want to reinvent the wheel and reinvent it wrong if there is a formula for building a story already in place. Any Ideas?

    Reply
  11. ArchAngel

    I applaud your honesty in writing this useful article. I have recently begun tapping away at the keyboard to start my first fiction novel. I guess I still like the dream of being able to make a living as an author – call me an optimist (or deluded :)).

    Unpublished – people make typos, get over yourself.

    Keep writing.

    Reply
  12. Jessica_mom_of_7

    This was very encouraging :) I have been told by a lot of people I have talent and been published in a couple of minor things. However the most important person has not told me I am talented, myself. I know you can not do that for me, but I wanted to say thanks for the swift kick in the butt I needed to get started. I just googled “how to write a book” and you came up, thank the Lord for small miracles. Tonight after putting my crew of 7 children and 1 husband to bed I am going for it! I don’t know what will end up on the page, but hey Kinko’s will bind anything right ? :)

    Reply
  13. Obbop

    “Unpublished_but_better_than_you – August 16th, 2007 at 4:59 am

    “If Voltaire and Marquis de Sade could write in prison, than you can do it in suburbia” – If you can write this without knowing the first thing about English grammar, I guess anyone CAN write. I stopped reading right there, by the way. If you can’t tell the difference between “than” and “then,” you have no business giving other people advice.”

    Sheeeesh!!!!!!!!!!! Who placed your furry nodules in a vice and turned the handle?

    Anal retentive much?

    Reply
  14. Bryan Miller

    Like a Culinary- prepared meal, I tried to digest “The Berkum Blog” in search for the secret recipy to,” How To Write a Book”. Hard work, dedicated daily routine preserved for cogitation and writing were the unexciting prerequisits for sucess.OK, but for dessert I think I’ll stir-in personal experiences, a touch of humor,a bit of visual melody only the mind can hear when seen in print. I like the complimentary replys you recieved. Am certain I know what Joyce Rosser will write, go for it Joyce. GOOD BLOG SITE SCOTT!

    Reply
  15. Stuart

    Hi, I just wonted to say that I’ve started a book about me.I beleive that it will sell. I Know it will. How you ask just beleive.My spelling sucks my typeing sucks but thats ok I have a feeling that someone will bye at least one I hope after reading your blog I will keep on the write path Thanks, Stuball

    Reply
  16. bernie

    hi i just want to say reading you website was great. I looked it up because i have a very strong urge to tell a story a true but sad one.
    but the only thing is, im crap at writing and i cant spell for love nor money.I know thats not much use to you but is their any way someone like me can get it down on paper the right way. are their wrighter that do that sort of thing. sorry i know this is not for asking the wrong questions

    Reply
  17. Anna

    So here we go: I’m a young chick who loves and lives to be creative and is currently thinking of writing a story. Not fictional, but not exactly an autobiography. My question? Are chapters from one’s life too cliche?

    It seems to me a wide variety of audiences are stricken by reality tv and the news. They always seem to include horrific events and slightly insane people. I am quite sure I can captivate a reader through pages and pages, but how much is too much? Where do you draw the lines on plot? I want to know when a book needs a break and great ways to do it.

    I’m not even quite sure how I got to this site. I googled “how to write a book’ and this site popped up. I have a strong, guttural urge to write a book, but I want to make sure it would interest people….not just my friends and me.

    Any suggestions/advice you would have for a young beginner would be great.

    Oh yeah, the article was helpful :-)

    Reply
  18. Ken

    Hey Scott…

    Nice article. I’m a copywriter. It’s my second job, but I do get paid to do it. So it’s cool. I fell in love with the notion of writing copy. Lately have been flirting with the idea of writing a book.

    After my first few paid assignments, I was very excited about it all. I still am. Reality settled in as time passed.

    I have more assignments. Things are cool.

    Several things I’d like to offer…

    Scott, and others, are 100% correct. Writing is work. No matter what kind of writing you do. If you wanna write… ask your self why you wanna write. Anything less than loving stories and writing them will not see you through. There are other things, of course. You might want to read Robert McKee’s book, Story. He teaches screenwriting but it applies to fiction writing.

    As with getting published, I’ve found the business side of copywriting kinda sucks, too. Fortunately I don’t have to do all the traveling to promote my stuff.

    I knew a guy who wrote a trilogy of books. They sucked to high heaven. But he had the jing to self-publish and promote it. I noticed he was always traveling on the weekends to promote it.

    But I admired him because he wrote them, got them made, and put up a nice website to promote them. And he was walking tall. But he seemed utterly clueless because the books were awful. Seems no one ever mentioned that to him. But who cares? He was happy. So I was happy for him.

    I write all kinds of things for businesses. I tend to write every day. And something happens when you do that. Your brain gets greased. Works better. I never get writer’s block.

    And! I know some will read this and flame me for all the fractured writing rules. But you wanna know what?

    It’s copywriting. In copywriting you write exactly like regular people talk. Everyday language. You have to throw out all the rules you learned in school. But you do need to know what they are, first.

    Wanna write a book?

    Learn how to tell a great story. Learn how to create a great story. People love stories. Every fiction book, poem, song, short ‘story’… is a story about something.

    Learn the nuts ‘n bolts of how to tell a great story.

    Learn how to write dialog. How? Learn from what’s around you. Ever seen a movie? Next time, pay attention to the dialog. Then… write some.

    Write every day.

    Read Robert McKee’s book about screenwriting. It’ll help you, I promise.

    Forget money, fame, fortune. Write because you love to write. Because you love telling a great story.

    Start writing short stories. You have to learn how to do some things. So start small and build.

    Try submitting your stories to small places to get published. Local newspapers, newsletters, online places looking for stories, small mags. Anywhere.

    See ya.

    Reply
  19. Kip

    Even though im 13 (almost 14) I’ve always wanted to write a book. I’ve had tuns of grate idea’s but in the mornig they seem really bad. Oh well ill keep trying (went throw 19 ideas)

    Reply
  20. Mauro Biaggi

    Happy New Year Everybody!!!

    Well I’m glad to be first in replying this great article (2008) well maybe I’m not the first in telling everybody that all feedback is appreciated I wont leave aside your opinion and thank you all for taking the time to write, the article is also wonderful, I’ve surfed the internet since the thing itself started and I always found boring to write in blogs but know this: You’ve all encouraged me to start writing everywhere I can to spread my opinion.

    Now it is my turn to pay:

    I truly believe there are secrets to write a best seller and it has to do with the writer’s personality and commitment, as i said before it is a “secret” nobody ever teaches you how “to be” to success in writing (or mostly in anything else) teaching you how to write is as possible as to teach you how to move your eyebrows up and down or to tell good jokes or to be articulated all the time this is simply not very possible to occur but what it is possible is to do an insight.

    The INSIGHT

    It doesn’t require a sharp mind, beign in shape, tons of loot or any hi-tech software for you to perform just close your eyes for two seconds a couple of times a day and don’t press yourself too much, in your mind will surely appear memories of you having a bad time (for big or not so big deals), the time you laughed the most or made someone else laugh till she or he dirtied up her or his underwear, in that insight you are truly you and the real you is the one with the highest percentage to success in anything you demand (explained at the end of the paragraph) just don’t sit on your hands when you get the memories write them or record them on .WAV but don’t let them go to oblivion because the first impression is the one that counts; if you let the time flow your own mind no matter what the situation will add and substract stuff and it won’t be the original idea and that is what people is looking for to buy a book ORIGINALITY.

    Foolproof Method for writing realistic dialogs

    Make a party, bring alcohol (for lowering stress levels), and do role playing games with a given situation written in small pieces of paper (according to the situations you want to transform into dialogs to write in your book) then put them to work in trios where at least each one of them say a line, then make them work in duos the rule this time is that they have to say at least 3 lines (short conversation like) at the very end make them work solo. You can designate a secretary to write all the speeches and submit them later to vote and give a prize to the winner or secretly record the whole party, it is never good to keep secrets you must tell your friends you’re writing a book so your commitment to the book and to yourself will increase but don’t let your moral interfere too much by telling them you’re recording the party or you’ll make your friends feel like mice inside a labyrinth or as puppets, in other words they might feel upset or if they want to cooperate anyway the realness will unquestioningly decrease from the start as they feel constantly observed.

    Reply
  21. brandon

    I have two unfinished works and am currently at a stand still, make that three unfinished works. I loved this article and believe it will propel me into writing, thank you

    Reply
  22. Tonja, England

    I came upon this website as i trawled for some kind of writing reassurance. I find crisis of confidance quite an obstacle with anything i attempt to write. The inner critic will probe:-
    ‘what’s the point’
    ‘this is inane’
    ‘your sentences are juvenile’
    ‘this is relentless’
    ‘this is repetetive’
    etc etc

    I find myself requiring little boosts of confidance to slog through to complete a book.
    Your website gave me that little boost in confidance. I thank you for that.
    Informative and fun and the blog highlighted the personal battles others were having. It was the medicine i needed.

    I leave a little ‘joke'(subjective of course) that this medicine produced.

    The book characters are talking to a fellow who can see into the future.

    “Hey it’s a bit like that book this”

    “What book?”

    “You know the book where he predicts what’s going to happen in the future”

    “What the Nostradamus book?”

    “erm I don’t think so”

    “Les Prophecies? “

    “No I don’t think it’s him either”

    “No Les Prophecies is Nostradamus’s book”

    “No, No that other book erm……..erm…… Back to the future”

    “That’s not a book it’s a film”

    “It’s a bit like it though isn’t it”

    Thanks again Scott

    Reply
  23. Jonathan

    This website has proven to be quite informative. I am in the initial processes of writing some Christian literature. The book is going to be somewhat controversial. My philosophies are a bit different than that of most my Christian brothers, within my Christian circle. In writing this manuscript, I expose myself to criticism. I feel a passion when I express my ideas and philosophies. Do you guys think that there is much of market for this type of writing? It’s not a self help but more like a revelatory depiction of Gods involvement in the affairs of mans life. How that everything in ones life is working to mature and bring him to a greater sense of the creator. I talk about the trials and tribulations in life. I also talk about sin and Gods mercy, etc. It is against unconventional but I think it will pop. I am not in it for the money its more like an assignment from God! Feel free to email me at jcpraisehim@yahoo.com if you could give me ideas or comments.

    Reply
  24. Timmerdog

    Jonathan.

    I do not think it is important that a book you might feel is assignment from your god might be controversial. If this is in fact an assignment from her/him then simply do it. When I read a book or hear a story told I want to believe what is before me. Conviction must come through. The old saying of writing what you know, I believe this to be true.

    Reply
  25. David

    Great article, gave me lots of inspiration and hope. I just submitted a proposal to O’Reilly, and it was rejected within 30 minutes. Very efficient, and very nicely worded, but devastating nonetheless. What do you do if you think you have a great idea, but the world disagrees?

    Reply
  26. Carol Denbow - 3-time author

    Take your time when writing your first book. Unless the information you’re writing can quickly become outdated, there’s no hurry.
    If you’re just starting out, you may want to subscribe to my free monthly ezine, “A Book Inside.” Just go to http://abookinside.blogspot.com or visit one of my websites to sign up. Try http://www.plainandsimplebooks.com
    The ezine will walk you through writing, publishing, and selling your book. I’m always available for advice as well. You can contact me at cdenbow@plainandsimplebooks.com

    Reply
  27. Michael Ashley

    Thanks for the great article. I found that most people get caught up in the logistics of writing rather than the story itself. If you get a chance, take a look at FastPencil.com, http://www.fastpencil.com and let me know what you think. I created the web site to help authors write better and faster.

    Reply
  28. dramaqueen

    I’m 16 years old and I have been writing things like poetry, music and short stories since I was 9. However, 2 years ago I started on my very first long story. I get my ideas from reading, tv,and ancting with my friend but if those type of things don’t get your juices flowing then write about things you know, write about your own life but put a twist on it. Good luck to all who want to be a writer like I do:)

    Reply
  29. Michael

    I have a Idea for a book that can also be a cartoon and toy line I need help becouse I am not a writer and to get this off the ground it has to start as a book I know I need a ghost wrtiter and illustrator and I also need to protect my Idea before sharing it but how do I find those people and bring this Idea to life?

    Reply
  30. Rebecca

    Hello scott I am 13 years old and I have just begun to write a book this last hour. Have you any idea how to get a book template? Also when there is a leading at the start of a book (big letter) how do you do that? I may sound stupid but I have always loved wrting and admired successful writers.Hopefully one day someone will write this to me when I’m a successful author! thank you

    Reply
  31. R Riveiro

    I am writing again after a break recovering from a rejection notice. Now I have created the following set of commandments for myself. Maybe this will help others also:

    . Thou shall write one blog post per day on your own blog
    . Thou shall write one blog post per day on someone else’s blog
    . Thou shall write two pages of novel story per day
    . Thou shall write one page of short story per day
    . Thou shall remain happy at all times whilst in pursuit of happiness

    End result: network with other writers. Two short stories + one novel per year. Happiness.

    Thanks for the post

    Reply
  32. cramer

    You are correct in saying writing is hard work. I speak often and writing is tougher. I can speak for hours on a subject but when I sit and write it out…well that is hard. I think that there is a mis-conception that it is harder to edit. Yes it is hard but I propose that the hardest thing to do is neither writing nor editing but receiving critique. Now THAT is hard.

    Reply
  33. Susie

    R Riveiro – best advice ever! Thank you!

    Susie

    Reply
  34. saira

    Sine the last couple of weeks i have been dying to write a book. But im only twelve years old. Wont people think that this book isnt mine. i need help has anyone got an advice for me.

    please i need help badly.

    Reply
  35. nukrebttocs

    I’ve wrote half of my book this month and what really helped me was wearing that cafepress T-shirt with “I WANT TO WRITE A BOOK” written on it.

    Reply
  36. linsay brown

    I’m writing a book… there is no turning back. Its a solitary road travelled across the keys as the rest of my world lies cocooned in their warm beds. I sit on my frozen toes, wracked with frustration trying to remember the joy! Thank you for an inspiring blog, I see I am not alone.

    Reply
  37. Hiclay2000

    Hey Unpublished.

    I think your a smuck!

    Ever seen the text messages people do these days. Im sure you would have fun with the english language then. Its moving to more of a “I know what you ment to say” type phylosophy. Children will dictate the future of the enlish language. Have you ever read a newspaper from the 1800’s. Almost impossible due to the different ways they used words and structured sentances. I cant spell and dont care, this doesnt have a spell check, BUT YOU KNOW WHAT I MEAN DONT YOU!!!
    Let me guess, you love picking out things wrong with what other people do because its probably the only thing you can do well.

    Reply
  38. scott

    I think many folks are just afraid, or so full of indecision about life, that nothing ever gets done out of fear of failure. The criticism scares away many a potential author.

    Writing is not about gaining praise or wealth. You should write for yourself. If other people like your work, then it is nothing more than a bonus.

    Reply
  39. Roxie Wheeler

    My book is in my mind. I know it. I live it everyday. It’s the putting it on paper and saying what it needs to say.
    I want to be an outsider looking in. Telling the story so true…
    I’m working on it.

    Reply
  40. T_A_L_L_T_O_M

    inspired me to write

    Reply
  41. CJ

    Scott, this was completely disappointing and exactly what I needed to hear. I am a closet writer (if there was ever such a thing) and have only recently decided to explore the idea of publishing some of my work. Maybe my next step is to get off my rump and actually do something about it.

    Dearest Grammar and Spelling Royalty – please do not look on this post unfavorably if you find an error. Simply let me know. If you have a malicious disposition and can only have cynical remarks to offer, simply move on. None of us need to hear it. The inability to give feedback or criticism in a civil manner speaks volumes about your personality.

    Reply
  42. Off the grid

    unpublished’s silly rant brings to mind the following quote from Alvin Toffler:

    “Anyone nit-picking enough to write a letter of correction to an editor doubtless deserves the error that provoked it.”

    Reply
  43. Caroline Budhan

    Wow! I am thrilled I stumbled upon this blog…I am a writer and I love to write – Working on my 1st book.

    Reply
  44. Alina

    Hi!
    Thanks for the hints, they sound in same why easy to follow. I am wondering, lets say for example that you have the right story but you find it hard to write (for difrent reasons). Is there a place were 2 or 3 so called wanna be writers can meet and work together. If so, is there any special things that I need to be aware of?!? Kind of new of this as you might have noticed.
    Kind regards,
    Alina

    Reply
  45. SadieMae

    Hello Scott. I must say while I was reading some of the comments I don’t understand how rude some people can be. ( Mr Unpublished but better than you? ) I mean what is that about?
    Anyway, my name is Sadie and I don’t care if your grammar and punctuation are wrong. The truly intelligent people will understand what you mean and overlook the error realizing we all make mistakes. Besides, if we got everything right we would have no need for editors and I’m sure that could affect ( or is it effect, I always get that one confused ) the economy, losing all those jobs for the truly grammar gifted.
    I don’t really have a point that I’m getting at here. Mostly just wanted to comment on the rude comment. I’m a writer, published but not proud in the arrogant sense. Happened upon your site and I like what I read. I have always been a writer and never leave the house without a pen and notebook. When the urge to write strikes I must be prepared. It happens so suddenly. I mainly write poetry and while it is work much of it happens spontaneously so I thought I would leave you with one. It is not published but it is copyrighted so I don’t worry about leaving it. If my punctuation and grammar are wrong it’ll just make it that much more difficult for the ignorant to understand.

    Time is a puzzling notion,
    surviving without our devotion.
    For ignoring the clock,
    never gave rise to shock
    or succeeded in stopping its motion.

    copyright 2006

    Sadie Mae

    Reply
  46. kelly

    Hi Scott,

    Excellent article. Your article was very useful and informative for me. Im in the beginning stages when it comes to writing, and i currently write on a couple of my blogs.

    Reply
  47. Pamela

    Scott, A site like this is great. It gives one hope that anyone with determination could possibly write a book. It makes you see that many everyday people have a story to tell. I do wonder why writing isn’t more lucrative?

    Reply
  48. Ron

    Hello Scott,

    I very much liked the realist approach of your blog. It never helps to give people exactly what they want to hear if it is going to make them oblivious to what they should know to meet their goals.

    I have been blessed with many creative aspirations and inspirations, however, when I think on the inspirations to write, that God has provided for me to become his useful novelist, I can’t imagine expounding enough on the subjects behind the titles he gave me, to fill more than 20, or so, pages. Making this especially difficult for me, is an attention deficit problem. I am so easily distracted and often drop projects, to never again return to complete them, because I am easily bored. Motivation and excitement are things that have eluded me beyond my short attention span.

    God has found my bent personality as one to become a voice of change, outrage, and critical of the intentions of others in our society.(I think that I would be a good contender to voice against the super conservatives, like Rush Limbaugh, and the supreme court – re civil rights under the “Bill of Rights”)

    It is said that people are either Optimists or Pessimists, I consider myself a pragmatist. And,
    My best friends are common sense and reasoning.

    Reply
  49. Sean Britton

    Writing, my friend, is not hard. There are secrets that still themselves within other worlds. To access these realms of knowledge you must work like mad. Write, fail and write again. I have never had a book published and have plenty of rejection slips. Thats ok. I see doors unlocking all the time. Fact is my friend, when you loose interest in a book, your audience does too. Plots are evil, just see your world and write about it. As a matter of a fact. Incomplete sentences are ok too. Just a matter of timing.

    Reply
  50. dave

    This article and blog is a great find for me. I agree writing is hard work, but over time it can become easy as the poster said above. These are some great tips Scott.

    Reply
  51. Nora L. Ghamari

    Thank you Scott,

    Your article has inspired me in more ways that I can say here. I too, like many of the bloggers above, have ideas running in my mind. Your article points me in the right direction… and that is to start writing.

    It is fascinating to read how so many of us are out there… write away everyone! (get it:)).

    CJ of April 7th, 2008, I completely agree with your comment to Dear Grammar and Spelling Royalty.

    Thanks again, know that you have made a positive difference to many.

    Reply
  52. Gina

    I’ve always had it in my heart to write. I think all the time, through what I’ve experienced I laugh out loud and think others would too. The first time I actually am doing research on how to get started. I always thought it would be a good idea to partner up with someone who could give structure to my ideas in order to capture interest to the readers and give meaning. Part of the reason I want to write a non fiction book is because my life is or was anything but ordinary and feel others may heal through my experiences that overcame adversity in their own lifes or are strugging to find a way. I think and probably with any writer you are human and actually wonder if your writings will be perceived as interesting, its a doggy dog world out there and so, its challenging to have that confidence in your messages through your own wisdom. I am lazy at times, but reading through these posts have enlightened me and I hope that I make my dreams come true. Its all about following through!

    Reply
  53. b

    im only 13 & ive written two novels but i really want to get ’em published
    so youre article helped me get back on track

    Reply
  54. Jamie

    When I was a freshman in college, one of my professors asked me what would I like to accomplish in life and I responded that I would like to write a book. I don’t know why I said that or where it came from – it just popped out of my mouth. (An unfortunate quirk of mine).

    I married and had children and barely had time to read a book much less write a book. But I love words – I love that by just using some words together or alone, it can cause you to imagine so many things. Imagine…I love that word too!

    The first thing that caught my attention when I read this blod was the title “management and creative thinking” – I know, from a practical standpoint that you would have to manage your time so you can write – but can you “manage” creative thinking? If you know how to do this, write a book about that please.

    I took up painting instead of writing – which, after you read this mosh-pit of words, is probably a wise choice.

    But,please all you writers – KEEP WRITING and keep dreaming and keep inspiring us all.

    Reply
  55. Jamie

    and I must correct my typo:

    “The first thing that caught my attention when I read this blod” (should be “blog”)

    Hey, I said I took up painting!

    Reply
  56. Carole

    Thank You

    An inspiring article, got my brain working.

    Reply
  57. Kitsune

    Why hello there. You know, this is the first time I’ve read one of these ‘how to write-such in such’ articles all the way through. I’m glad you kept my interest. ^_^

    I actually have a fun way to begin writing something that I was taught by my Freshman English teacher. (In high school.) First you find a book, any book. From the bible to the dictionary. (I prefer the latter.) And then you open to a random page and pick five words. Then you make a story from that.

    I find it fun, and I thought I’d comment about it because I saw something similar in another article that was here.

    Or maybe I was just bored and wanted to rant. Who knows? =)

    Reply
  58. Sam

    I PUT MY ENTIRE COMMENT IN CAPS LOCK SO IT WILL GET YOUR ATTENTION. (please read this!!! and help!!!) OK. I’M A MINOR (14) AND I WROTE A BOOK. I STARTED WITH JUST A PEN AND PAPER AND I DON’T EVEN KNOW WHERE TO BEGIN WITH A PUBLISHER. CAN PUBLISHERS STEAL IDEAS OF BOOKS? DO I NEED MY BOOK COPYRIGHTED? (please don’t think I’m stupid!) WHILE I WAS DOING RESEARCH, I READ THAT MINORS CAN’T GET BOOKS PUBLISHED AND I WANT A KNOWN PUBLISHER TO READ MY BOOK. MY BROTHER, WHO IS ALSO A MINOR, IS WRITING THE SEQUEL TO MY STORY. HOW DO I GET A PUBLISHER TO NOTICE ME? YOUR ARTICLE WAS DISCOURAGING, BUT IT WAS AN EGO DEFLATION THAT I REALLY NEEDED. PUBLISHING MY BOOK IS GOING TO BE HARD, AND I NEED ADVICE FROM SOMEONE LIKE YOU, SOMEONE WHO’S BEEN THERE, DONE THAT IN THE WRITING BUSINESS.

    Reply
  59. David Pritzlaff

    I enjoyed the article and the information presented. As I scrolled down the comments, however, I grew frustrated by the occasional negative perspective. Reminds me of people battling over which is more progressive or environmental and never making change.

    I have wanted to start a project for over a decade since the death of my mother. The time is now, I believe, as it consumes me. My motivation is not money but rather unraveling onto paper to clear my mind and allowing focus on my own family.

    Much appreciated and best of luck to all.

    Reply
  60. T A West

    Thank you for the real life advice. I’m now motivated to write

    Reply
  61. CD

    It’s hard to get motivated and then once we do, we write, write, write, beacuse that’s what we enjoy!
    To get your work published?? Another story all together. But your best chances are to know what to present to a publisher. Know the industry!!! Learn how to “properly” put your work into a quality package. You will improve your odds fro success. At worst, you’ll self-publish a top notch book which will attract buyers attention.
    Check out http://abookinside.blogspot.com – It’s a information site with topic like ISBN numbers, outlining, book covers, how to write, publish, and sell books. You can sign up to get notified each time a new post is made on the site. It’s all free, good thing, because this info can get expensive!!!!

    Reply
  62. tentative no more!

    Hi Scott. Thanks so much for the article. I’ve wanted to write a book for so long. I’ve started….stopped….started again….stopped, etc. The hard work part doesn’t bother me. The satisfaction from hard work is often rewarding enough, but I was afraid of putting my blood, sweat and tears into something and then having it be impossible to publish because I’m a beginner. I’ve also wondered from time to time it it may be better to publish under a different name. My subject matter may cause me to lose friends. What do you think?

    Reply
  63. tentative no more!

    Hi Scott. In addition, good for you for being so civil to the unkind remarks of “unpublished” and kudos to the one who pointed out her or her grammatical error. To unpublished, it takes so much more effort in life to be nasty. I can only assume that you were having a bad day or a jealous moment. You’re forgiven.

    Reply
  64. Josh

    Hello,

    I just happened to google search “how to write a book” and found this posting. Very interesting. I can’t say that I’m surprised about the difficulty of writing a book. Sucess always seems to go hand in hand with sacrifice and effort I think. I’m very interested in non-fiction adventure and exploration writings. I’ve read all the greats and many of the not so greats. More and more I feel curious about writing a book. I’m not looking for fame or fortune or money. I’m as happy as can be with my airline pilot career. I just have lots of time and ambition and it would be an excellent personal goal to achieve. I actually think if I wrote a book, I would rather prefer it to remain small. I collect rare and out of date books, and I’d like mine to be rare, regardless of it’s value. Anyways. Just wanted to say thanks for the info, and thanks to everyone else who posted. It was entertaining to read all the replies.

    Josh

    Reply
  65. Josh

    Oh, and one more thing : To those who are “gramatically” correct, or won some spelling B in seventh grade. Keep in mind that nomatter what you think IS or ISN’T correct, writing is much like a language. There’s many dialects, different spellings, accents and slang all around the world. It doesn’t much matter to pick apart anybody for how they communicate. The last thing I’d ever want to do is be part of a perfectly uniform language or writing style. I prefer errors. I prefer people who ignor the geeks and their words. The best books I’ve ever read were by people who weren’t established authors, didn’t have a friggn’ clue what they were doing, poorly edited their own work but loved every moment of it…

    Reply
  66. ellykay1

    As so many people have commented, I too googled, how to write a book.
    This has also taught me another important component that Scott mentions.
    Getting it published, marketing the book and marketing yourself.
    The key is to draw the audience in. You have to get the audience to your book or article first…..Go ahead, write a crappy or mediocre book. Do it! There are lot’s of them out there that have been published and actually sell! The key is marketing the darn thing.
    Sell that ketchup popsicle to the eskimo.
    Ok, I’ll shut up now.
    Just wanted to point out that I had a reaffirmed epiphany on the importance of marketing and sales. (My current career)
    Great article by the way.
    Thanks!

    Reply
  67. Vanessa

    This website is cool and I respect Scott Berkun but if anyone here wants a really good website on writing, editors, dialogue, narrative, etc Go to CaroClarke.com and click writing advice. I am 17 and working on my first novel. This website taught me a lot that I previously had no knowledge of. Everyone please visit this site, you will appreciate it. Perhaps the best writing advice site I have yet to visit.

    Reply
  68. Mike Oldfield

    The grammer idiots make me want to throw up. The wannabe, I need shrink, pathetic writers do too.

    Writing a book is a business undertaking. If no one wants to read your book, your business will fail.

    If a market does want to read your book AND you know how to market, you will succeed. There are countless books and articles on how to market your books before, during and after they’re done.

    THE MAGIC BULLET OR POTION OR FORMULA IS SIT DOWN AND FINISH IT.

    Too many writers want someone else to pay for their “no market” writing output.

    If you have valuable information, cash it in.

    The way you write a book is to sit down, spend about 12 hours pefecting a table of contents. Go relax for the rest of the day. Go to bed. Get up and start writing every day until you are done.

    When you are done, you contact the folks clamoring for new information on your subject and send them a book and press release. If they don’t respond. You wasted your time on a subject no one cares about or it sucks really bad.

    Why did you do that?

    Mike Oldfield

    P.S. Valuable information that your merket is clamoring to have will forgive you for less than perfect grammer.

    If they know what you meant when you are through writing your sentence, communication has taken place.

    Copywriters have written millions of lines of improper grammer that has sold trillions of dollars in product.

    The Grammer crowd is pissed because what they latched onto as the most important priority got them mostly nowhere.

    Editors are too often bitter wannabe, couldn’t get published myself, mean people. They’re critics who can’t do it themselves.

    Editors can ruin books. Editors can make them better. Watch for an attitude people. If they have one then they suck like all other mean people.

    If they don’t then they are probably a pretty good editor and can make a book better.

    Grammer zealots need to get off their high horse and find something worthwhile to be pissed about.

    Billion dollar industries that flourish using IMPROPER GRAMMER. Advertising, Hip Hop Music, Reality TV and All Shows using slang of the year, comedy of every kind and so on.

    Apparantly society has decided you should be told to take your grammer and shove it in your high horses arse!

    Reply
  69. Tom

    Hi, im a newbie. I’ve been thinking for years about wanting to write a book. But not just a book, a human nature/my opinion and views about that and society in general. I’ve had some hard life experiences and some serious soul serching epics. I think i have a special gift that needs to be put out into peoples minds, like it or hate it. what resources should i seek and what could you suggest i do to track my thoughts and keep them from turning into garble..help greatly appreciated.

    Reply

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