How to write an ebook

Ebooks are different from print books in a few ways, but the main difference is that they can be used for short publications that usually wouldn’t be financially worth printing on paper. Therefore, the possibilities for topics are endless!

Here are a few steps to guide you through writing an ebook:

  1. Find your perfect idea

Every book, no matter what publication medium will be used, begins with an idea. Choose something you know a lot about or that you don’t mind researching very well. It’s a big step in the right direction if you feel very strongly about your topic. You’ll feel intrinsic motivation to complete your book and get it out there for the world to see!

  1. Develop your idea

Think ‘around’ your idea. Consider what ideas come before it or what results your subject matter could produce. If it is a ‘how-to’ topic, write down and thoroughly review all of the steps to make sure you haven’t missed anything. A persuasive topic will require responsible handling of counter-arguments so that you and your book do not seem narrow-minded.

  1. Organize and plan

Set up an outline. This can be an old school outline like you learned in school, or you can divide your information up into chapters. Either way, you need to gather similar material so that it stays together for logic’s sake. An unorganized ebook can frustrate readers before they understand your message.

  1. WRITE!

The actual writing is probably the easiest part of putting together your ebook. The message is the whole reason you wanted to write it to begin with. Don’t worry too much about things that can be fixed later, including spelling, grammar and punctuation. Your main concern during this step is to get your ideas on paper.

  1. Revise

No one likes to go back over the work once they’re done, but revising is just as important as the writing phase. Make sure your ideas are coherent and cohesive. Correct errors in spelling, grammar and punctuation. Put the ebook away and out of your mind for a few days, then come back to it with fresh eyes to see what you would like to do differently.

  1. Give your book the finishing touches

Designing a professional-looking cover, table of contents and title page can give your book the edge that it needs to be taken seriously. You should also think about the best font for your book, one that is readable but still represents your tone.

  1. Get feedback and revise some more

If you have willing readers in your family or friends, ask them for their honest opinions (and don’t get your feelings hurt if all their reviews aren’t 5-star!). When they have told you what they like and don’t like about the book, make changes according to what you, the author, feel is right for the book.

Writing a book is easier now than it has ever been, thanks to electronic self-publishing. You are only a few steps away from writing your first ebook!