14 Tips for Completing the First Draft of Your Book

Someone told me to write a book on how to write a book. I really had to think about this because, honestly, I write books because people tell me to. I really don’t think about the process; I just do.

Thus, this article is my response to the person who wants to know how to write a book. It is my hope that these suggestions help many aspiring writers start on their journey to a completed book.

Completing First Draft of Your Book

Preparation

1.  Prepare yourself for the writing process by doing one or more of the following:

• Meditating
• Listening to inspirational or soothing music
• Dancing
• Praying
• Reading uplifting information
• Removing negative thoughts
• Exercising
• Reciting affirmations
• Taking a nap
• Being still
• Anything else you like to do that inspires your creativity

Writing Process

2.  Brainstorm and write down theme ideas for your book. Write as many as you can. Keep the themes broad as you may come up with subtopics.

3.  Review your themes and select the top three to five that best fit the message of your book.

4.  Ditch any ideas you have for books titles at this time. You will try to make your content fit your title instead of focusing on the story you really want to write, which will cause you to get frustrated or just qui.

5.  Brainstorm and write down topics for your book. Like theme ideas, write down all that come to mind and keep them general.

6. Start writing for 10 minutes straight. There are three ways to begin this process:

1. Write about one of the topics in your book. It doesn’t have to be in any particular order.
2. Free write. Jot down anything that comes to mind.
3. Journal.

I would encourage you to use pen and paper during this process instead of a computer.

7.  Write without editing. Don’t worry about grammar, spelling or punctuation. If something looks awkward; keep it. If you feel like cursing; do it. This is YOUR first draft.

8.  Commit to writing at least 30 minutes per week. This can be done in several ways.

• Try to pick a time slot that makes it easy for you to write for 30 minutes straight.
• Pick three 10-minute intervals in one day that works for you.
• Write at times where you can develop a consistent schedule – before you go to bed; early in the morning; or during your lunch hour.
• If you are a couch potato, write during the commercials breaks of your favorite shows.

9.  Only edit after you have completed a full first draft of your book. It doesn’t matter how long this process takes.

10.  Do not get stuck on the number of chapters; the number of pages; or titles for your book. Just write.

Other helpful tips

11.  Get an accountability partner. Find someone who is as committed to the completion of your book as you are. Agree on a check-in schedule which, ideally, would be at least once a week.

12.  Write when your muse strikes. Everyone doesn’t have a consistent time or day they can write; however, you must be prepared for when this happens. Always have a tool where you can note your thoughts – paper notebook; journal; tablet; smart phone; or voice recorder.

13.  Set weekly and monthly goals. The two best times to do this are: 1) before you start writing your first draft and 2) after you draft your outline.

If you set your goals before you start writing your first draft, there is a possibility you will stay on course.

On the other hand, since most people are motivated by results, you will think about your work differently after your outline because you will have something tangible to work with.

14.  Hire a writing coach. This person will help with your writing process; help you brainstorm ideas; and provide feedback. He or she could also serve as an accountability partner.

Above are my tips for completing the first draft of your book.

What is your process for completing the first draft of your book? Share your experiences in the comment box below.

 

 

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