In my new workbook Ready to Write, I give readers the same writing advice that I give to my writing clients, to help them organize and conceptualize their book. These strategies are however most effective if you know what type of book you would like to write.
Below, I have listed three successful book models I have seen used with first-time authors. These writing methods are easy to organize, and they will help you finish your book projects in a timely manner!
Devotional or Affirmation Book
[Devotional] A book that has topical subjects/chapters with biblical application.
[Affirmation Book] A book that has topical subjects/chapters with inspirational application.
If you’re interested in writing a devotional or an affirmation book, your chapters are guided by scripture, thoughts, quotes, or speeches. The easiest way to get started is to list out your subtitles (chapter titles) and then find a scripture, thought, quote, or speech that corresponds with that subtitle.
Ready to Write Suggestion:
While you are building out your book outline in this workbook, in addition to writing your six subtitles, underneath, write either a scripture, thought, quote, or speech that corresponds with it. Next, share a story or lesson to help your readers identify with the message of that chapter. Once you are done, you can either use the scripture, thought, quote, or speech to help you write the chapter or you can incorporate the scripture, thought, quote, or speech in the chapter for your readers to meditate on. (I typically suggest adding this at the beginning of the chapter.)
Tips: With a devotional, end each chapter with either a meditation verse, prayer, or word of encouragement. Also, for social media influencers, you can take your popular statuses and updates and use the same writing method as listed above.
Self-Help Chapter Book
Organization is key here. There should be a clear transition for the beginning, middle, and end of your manuscript.
Ready to Write Suggestion:
The Beginning: Here you should identify the problem or issue that you’re passionate about. It is also helpful to set up the origin of the problem in the beginning chapters as well. This should be the most “educational” part of the book. Your readers should fully understand the direction of the book after chapter three.
The Middle: This section of the book should list out important events, or issues that the writer overcame to help readers identify with the problem listed at the beginning of the book.
The End: By now you should have started to map out tangible steps for your readers to overcome the problem. If there are no “call to action” points by the end of the book, your readers may walk away dissatisfied.
Purchase your copy of my new workbook, Ready to Write here, and start your writing journey today!