All book writing has to start somewhere, and the best place to kick off your manuscript (原稿) is by coming up with a great idea. 1[■] It can be an article you read from your local newspaper, a conversation you overheard at Starbucks, a recent experience you had during a vacation, etc. Your overall idea should be narrowed down to one-to-two paragraphs, similar to the back cover copy you find on most books. When writing books, the idea is king. Always remember that.
2[■] This doesn’t just mean fictional characters-memoirs (回忆录) and nonfiction books still have characters, even if those characters are based on real people. When you write your own book, you must ask yourself what makes this character unique, what is the No. 1 thing this character wants and what difficulties must he or she overcome to reach it. Readers love imperfect, yet relatable characters. 3[■]
Maybe the most crucial step in the steps to writing a book, setting a deadline and sticking to it is essential. 4[■] Too many writers say they are going to write a book and, after starting strong, find excuses as to why they stopped (or are on a super-long pause from writing books). There are definitely reasonable reasons that could prevent you from book writing-help needed in the family, a health issue, etc. But if you’re serious about writing a book, you have to make time for it. Deadlines will push you to do just that.
You can spend as much time as you want reading tips for writing a book, how to write books and how to edit your novel-and you should spend some time doing that. You should invest in studying the craft and learning how to write a bestseller. 5[■] Do it during your lunch break. Do it while waiting for the kids at soccer practice. Do it after everyone goes to bed. There’s no official book writing model, there’s just you, a pen and a paper (or a computer, of course).