Recently, I conducted a workshop on "Writing a Non-fiction Book in 90 Days" at Tallahassee Community College for the Women of Change. I'd like to share that outline with you along with a few pertinent details.

Month 1: Getting Started with Non-fiction

Definition of non-fiction:

Non-fiction books are based on reality and research.

Title and subtitle:

Use a catchy title containing seven words or less. If longer, use a subtitle.

Researching your title:

Do a title search at www.copyright.gov or www.amazon.com to see if your title has been used before.

Researching your content:

Spend some time at the library or online researching your content. Try using www.wikipedia.com for information on related topics.

Preparing yourself to write:

Start preparing yourself to write by facing your writing fears. Set a timer for three-minutes and try to list twenty-five of your writing fears. At the end of time, write a positive affirmation for overcoming each fear.

Outline:

Take some time during this month to brainstorm ideas. Then, come up with a detailed outline of your book. 

Month 2: Writing the Heart of Your Book

Write the first chapter:

Using your outline, write the first chapter of your book.

Write the last chapter:

You should know how the book is going to end so go on and write the last chapter next. It'll help you stay focused on the end while writing the middle.

A-Z Writing Tips:

(See A Writer's Guide to Self-Publishing & Marketing by Barbara Joe Williams).

Time management:

Writing takes time and sacrifice. You should set-up a time schedule for writing everyday even if it's only ten minutes at a time. If you write 3 – 5 pages a day, you'll have 90 – 150 pages in thirty days.

Month 3: Finishing Your Book

Self-editing:

Once your book is complete, take some time to edit it yourself. Start with the first chapter and do a thorough read through for common errors.

Find a professional editor:

After self-editing, find yourself a professional editor to help put the finishing touches on your manuscript. If you can't afford an editor, you can't afford to publish.

That's it. Make a commitment to have your book written in ninety days. And yes, you can do it.

Local Authors Network Meeting

Saturday, September 27, 10:00 – 12:00 p.m.

Leon County Main Library

New Book Release

Moving the Furniture: 52 Ways to Keep Your Marriage Fresh

Monday, February 2

Local African-American Authors Day

Saturday, February 28, 12:00 – 3:00 p.m.

Amen-Ra's Bookshop, 812 S. Macomb Street