Tag: Nonfiction

Publishing a nonfiction book offers many advantages, including increased credibility and authority, more clients or customers, and potentially higher income. It can also help you build a platform to promote your work and grow your business.

Writing a nonfiction book allows you to share your knowledge and expertise with a larger audience than you could reach through other means. It’s also a great opportunity to document your thoughts and experiences to share with future generations.

As wonderful as writing and publishing a book is, it also comes with its fair share of legal risks. In this blog, we will explore some of the legal challenges faced by writers as well as vital tips on keeping yourself and your work protected through the process of writing your nonfiction book.

9 Things to Consider When Writing Your Nonfiction Book

It would be nice if authors only had to worry about completing their book on time and then getting published. Unfortunately, that’s not the case. As a writer, you also must ensure that you are taking the right steps to protect yourself legally.

Here are nine legal considerations that nonfiction authors must be aware of:

• Copyright
• Defamation
• Brands and Trademarks
• Plagiarism
• Privacy
• Right of Publicity
• Conducting interviews
• Using photos
• Citing sources

1. Copyright

The Copyright Act of 1976 is a U.S. law that grants exclusive rights to authors and creators of their works for a limited period. This law encourages authors to continue writing and publishing new works by providing them with protective rights. 

When a work is fixed in a tangible medium—such as text, photographs, audio files, and video content—the creator automatically owns the copyright. If the work results from a joint effort, more than one person may hold the copyright.

However, if the creator signed an agreement stating that the work was made for hire, the hiring party will own the copyright. For example, if an author assigns the copyright to a publisher, the publisher will hold the copyright.

It is important to note that images and infographics added to a book are also subject to copyright laws. To safeguard your work, you should obtain a copyright to prevent others from claiming ownership and profiting from it.

If you include someone else’s protected intellectual property in your book without permission, you could be responsible for infringing on that party’s rights. Such actions typically involve claims of violating either copyright or trademark laws concerning the book’s publication. 

The safest approach for any author is to obtain written permission from the rights holder before publishing to prevent legal issues associated with using someone else’s intellectual property. This legal document should clearly outline the specific parameters of the license granted to you. By doing so, it will avoid any ambiguity about the authorized uses of the intellectual property.

2. Defamation

Defamation is an incorrect statement about a person, group, or institution that causes damage to their reputation. For nonfiction writers, defamation can be an issue when writing books that involve real people. Therefore, authors need to be aware of defamation laws in their jurisdiction before publishing any material that could potentially harm the reputation of another person.

You should also take care when writing about public figures, even though they are subject to different legal standards regarding defamation. In most cases, celebrities must prove actual malice, which means that the author knew or had reason to know that the statement was false and published it anyway. Although these cases present a much higher burden of proof, you still could be liable as a writer for defamation.

The best way to protect yourself is to publish factual statements you can support with evidence. Also, consider writing in a way that is not likely to be interpreted as defamatory, such as refraining from using pejorative language or making broad generalizations.

Getting permission from those mentioned in your book may be beneficial, particularly if you will be discussing sensitive topics or making potentially damaging statements. It can help protect you from a potential defamation lawsuit and demonstrate that the statements made in the book are true and accurate.

3. Brands and Trademarks

However, other companies may view it as free publicity, unless you portray their brand negatively. 

Avoiding using brand names or trademarked slogans is best, unless you absolutely must have them in the text. In those cases, writing the company and asking about their trademark use policy is best.

A nonfiction author can get sued over brand or trademark infringement if a company believes its trademarks are being used in an unauthorized or inappropriate manner. The company may seek compensation for the damages caused by the breach, and the court may also order the author to stop using the trademarked material in their book. Also, if the judge determines that the infringement was intentional or reckless, the court may award punitive damages to the company.

4. Plagiarism

Plagiarism is a serious offense that you must avoid at all costs. It involves stealing and falsely claiming ownership of another person’s work, including language, ideas, plots, and characters. 

Even when merely accused of plagiarism, you can get into serious trouble. For example, in 2009, the estate of children’s author Adrian Jacobs sued Harry Potter author J.K. Rowling and her publisher, Bloomsbury, for having similar scenes in her book as he had in his.

After a lengthy legal battle, the case was dismissed. But it points out the need for authors to be vigilant about using another writer’s material.

Under no circumstances should you plagiarize someone else’s work and present it as your own, whether it’s a book, blog, or scholarly article. So, it becomes vital to acknowledge and give credit to the original author.

Plagiarism can result in severe consequences, depending on the severity of the offense. For example, civil penalties may include damages, injunctions, and legal fees, while criminal penalties may include fines and even imprisonment. Plagiarism is a serious issue that no author should take lightly; it can cause serious problems for both the author and the original copyright holder.

5. Privacy

Authors must be cautious about disclosing sensitive or embarrassing personal information when publishing nonfiction content.

6. Right of Publicity

The “right of publicity” grants authors the authority to regulate the commercial use of their name, image, and likeness. If nonfiction authors utilize real people’s names, images, or likenesses in their works without consent, they may face legal action for violating this right. 

Unlike defamation, right of publicity lawsuits can sometimes continue for years after the individual’s death. Nonetheless, right of publicity laws differ significantly from one state to another, and it is uncommon for nonfiction authors and journalists to face lawsuits for using an individual’s name in their work. Additionally, some states provide legal protection for non-advertising use.

Still, to avoid a lawsuit, you should get written consent from someone you write about before using their personal information or image. This consent should be in writing and notarized to ensure clarity. If the person balks at signing a written agreement, it is best for you to find another source for your book, story, or article.

7. Conducting Interviews

Conducting interviews with subjects mentioned in a nonfiction book is a common practice. However, it is best to be aware of the legal ramifications.

Without this consent, you could face potential lawsuits for violating a person’s right to privacy or right of publicity. In addition, before publishing information obtained through an interview in your book, you should ensure that it is accurate and current.

8. Using Photos

When using photos for your nonfiction book, you should take great care to ensure you have the necessary permission to use them. If you plan on using pictures of people, you must obtain written consent from each individual before publishing any images.

If you plan on including images that someone else owns, you must obtain a license or permission from the copyright owner to legally use them. Without it, you could face potential lawsuits for copyright infringement. Also, make sure that any images you include are accurate and up to date before publishing them in your book.

9. Citing Sources

Citing your sources is a crucial step in writing your nonfiction book. It helps to establish credibility with readers and provides accurate information.

Failing to do so can lead to potential plagiarism or copyright infringement lawsuits.

Final Tips on Protecting Yourself

One of the best ways to guard yourself against potential litigation is to be thorough in your research and ensure that any information you are using is accurate and timely. In addition, you should always obtain proper permission or licenses when using images or quotes from other sources.

You should also correctly cite all sources used in your work and ensure they are reliable and credible. By taking these precautions, you can help protect yourself from potential lawsuits.

1. When in doubt, seek professional advice.

When protecting yourself from potential litigation, it is wise to seek professional advice. Consulting with an experienced attorney can be beneficial in helping to identify potential risks and liabilities before they become an issue.

An attorney can also guide the proper steps to protect your rights as an author, such as obtaining licenses for any images or quotes used in your work. They can also review your sources and help you ensure all information is accurate and up to date before citing it.

Taking the time to consult with an attorney at the outset of any project can help ensure that you take all necessary steps to protect yourself from potential lawsuits.

2. Read your manuscript thoroughly before publishing.

3. Hire a competent editor and proofreader.

Hiring a competent editor and proofreader is another crucial step in protecting yourself. An experienced editor and proofreader can help ensure all information is accurate, up-to-date, and properly cited. They can also double-check that any images or quotes used are correctly sourced.

An editor and proofreader can also help ensure that all sources are reliable and credible before they are cited in your work. 

4. Ensure all contracts are in place.

When publishing a nonfiction work, ensure written contracts are properly reviewed and signed by all parties involved. These documents include any agreements with contributors, editors, publishers, or others involved in the publication process.

All contracts should clearly outline the rights and responsibilities of each party. They should also include provisions for protecting your intellectual property rights and resolving any disputes arising during publication.

One Final Thought

Writing a non-fiction book can be an exciting endeavor. But, unfortunately, getting caught up in legal problems can take all the fun out of it for you as an author.

Hopefully, we have given you valuable insights into legal challenges faced by nonfiction authors and how to protect yourself from lawsuits. So, use this article for reference, and be sure to seek the advice of an attorney during the writing process. Only then will you rest easy knowing all your legal bases are covered.

Do you have a brilliant idea to share with the world? Are you an expert with a unique take on your industry?  An innovator with a breakthrough concept?

If you want to impact the widest possible audience with your ideas or expertise, there’s no better way to do it than writing a book. In fact, for anyone who wants to build a following, it’s virtually impossible to do so without writing a book. 

But there’s much more to writing a book than the writing.  Your book has a much larger role to play. It’s your biggest and most important tool for building your personal brand. And your personal brand is the foundation of your success.

What is a Personal Brand?

In the simplest terms, your brand is what you stand for. Your brand represents what you do and why. Your brand is your core message, your mission, and the audience you serve.

Simon Sinek, Brene Brown, and Gretchen Rubin are notable exemplars whose books launched their highly successful brands.

Sinek’s “Start with Why” inspired professionals to define their purpose in order to lead and inspire others. Brene Brown’s research, and her groundbreaking book, “The Gifts of Imperfection,” focused on the connection between vulnerability and courage. Gretchen Rubin’s book “The Happiness Project” drew on science, philosophy, and her own personal quest to understand what truly makes us happier.

Each of these authors is indelibly associated with the brands they created with their books. Your brand represents who you are and why your ideas should matter to your audience.  Essentially, your brand is your reputation: what you want to be known for.

Your brand is also part of your legacy—to your profession, your audience, and your family.

Why Do You Need a Brand?

If you want to be recognized for your expertise, promote a breakthrough idea, stand out from your competitors, and attract followers, you need a clearly defined personal brand. Your brand defines what you’re about, the audience you’re serving, and why they should care. 

You accomplish this with a personal branding campaign: a strategy and action plan designed to improve your reputation and visibility and build an audience. Your book is the centerpiece of that campaign.

Your Book: The Foundation of Your Brand

In a media-saturated world of sound bites and information overload, a book offers readers a deep dive into the breakthrough idea that sets you apart—and delivers value for them.

A well-written book:

• Establishes thought leadership, authority, and credibility.
• Differentiates you from competitors.
• Raises your profile and visibility.
• Builds your audience.
• Attracts new opportunities and clients.
• Generates increased media attention and coverage.
• Helps you command higher speaking or consulting fees.

So, now that you know writing a book is a requirement for building a successful personal brand, how do you get started? Here are some guidelines.

4 Steps for Building Your Personal Brand Through Your Book

Before You Begin: Setting the Stage for Success

Writing a book to build your brand starts well before the actual writing. For your book to be successful, you need to launch and develop your author platform ahead of time.  Many experts recommend beginning your brand campaign a full year ahead of publication. The goal is to build and engage your audience with a well-planned strategy to create anticipation for your book. 

If you don’t yet have an author website, now is the time to create one and begin producing content to introduce your ideas.  Writing regular blog posts, articles, and thought leadership pieces is one of the best ways to establish awareness.  You can also write articles for your company website, business magazines, or other publications appropriate for your field or topic. 

Bestselling author Dorie Clark’s first three book proposals were rejected by publishers because her audience wasn’t large enough. She began blogging regularly and signed her first book deal two years later. Clark, whose signature Recognized Expert program helps entrepreneurs promote their expertise, is now a sought-after speaker and consultant with a seven-figure business.

Develop a presence on social media to amplify the message you’re establishing with your content on other platforms.  Strategic use of Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter are crucial components of building an audience.  For inspiration, look at the social media accounts of comparable authors to see how they utilize the various platforms and engage their audiences.

Consider working with an experienced book publicist who can help you devise an effective pre-publication strategy and market your book. Among many other advantages, working with a publicist gives you access to a large network of media contacts—an invaluable asset for increasing your visibility.

Writing Your Book to Build Your Brand

As you prepare to begin writing, keep in mind that your book is the centerpiece of your brand platform.

Freelance editor Stephanie Hashagen, who has worked with authors on dozens of nonfiction books, offers the following guidelines for the writing process:

Clarify your message and your objective. Hashagen advises authors to be clear about what they want their book to accomplish. “Know what you want to say and what you want the book to do,” she says.

Organize your ideas. Hashagen stresses the importance of organizing your ideas before you begin the work of writing. “This is often the biggest challenge for authors,” she says. “Take the time to prepare a detailed outline, or a list of the topics or main points you want to include.” 

This is important for any writing project, but especially so for a book based on a specific premise and intended as a branding vehicle. “If you don’t distinguish your ideas and present them clearly, your book can end up sounding like a generic marketing piece,” she says. “You want to avoid rehashing what’s already out there.”

Establish the tone of your book. “Know how you want your book to sound,” says Hashagen.  Is it conversational? Authoritative? She recommends reading books by other authors in your topic area to learn how they engage with their subject and their readers.

Utilize your resources. What unique resources can you bring to your project? For example, you may have a network of colleagues or other professional contacts who could be interviewed to contribute insights that readers won’t find elsewhere.

Be authentic. Above all, says Hashagen, write in your natural voice. By trying too hard to convey authority or expertise, for example, authors can end up sounding rote and artificial. Your unique point of view is what makes your book stand out. “Don’t be afraid to sound like yourself.”

Many authors rely on an experienced ghostwriter or editor for help with the writing process.  A skilled professional can help you organize and present your ideas—your brand—in a compelling way.

Using Your Book As Your Brand Platform

Your book is the most important tool for building your brand, but it’s just the beginning.  As you go through the writing and editing process, you’ll also want to support your book with a continued presence on your pre-publication platforms. You’ll want to continue to engage your readers with book-related content on your own, on other websites, on social media, and through email newsletters, for example. 

Once published, your book will serve as the basis of your ongoing branding effort.  Importantly, it will also serve as a source of evergreen content that you can repurpose in the form of blog posts, articles, and tweets.

You can also continue to reinforce your message with speaking engagements, interviews, and podcasts. Speaking engagements, in particular, are a powerful tool for visibility. Brene Brown, for example, had written two books before she gained national recognition with her widely viewed 2010 Ted Talk.

It’s helpful to stay current with the websites of other authors in your space to see what their media presence is and how they continue to engage with readers and new prospects.

The goal is to establish a consistent presence across multiple media platforms that reinforces your value before, during, and after publication. Here again, an experienced book publicist can be a powerful ally in maintaining a strategic media presence that supports your book’s message and your brand.

Putting It All Together

Writing a book to share your ideas is a powerful statement, and it’s an essential requirement for building a recognizable brand. With a strategic pre-publication presence, a clear set of objectives to guide your writing process, and a strong post-publication campaign, your book can serve as the foundation of an enduring brand.

You have a great idea for a book, and you’re ready to begin writing.  But before you do, consider this great piece of advice from Stephen Covey’s classic book, “The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People:”

Begin with the end in mind.

It’s a sound strategy, and it’s especially true in the highly competitive publishing market. To publish and market your book successfully, you need to have a clear understanding of your audience before you ever start writing.

Understanding your audience is critical for two main reasons. First, it will ensure there’s a substantial enough market for your book to be profitable.  Second, it will determine the appropriate writing tone to use in your book.

With your audience clearly in mind, you can write your book in a way that will resonate with and engage those readers.

Target audience and tone are two critical pieces of your publication strategy. Having a clear audience profile will greatly improve your chances of finding a good agent or editor to work with, help them make the most compelling case for publication, and help position your book for optimal marketing success.

By becoming an expert on your audience, what they want to read and why, and the kind of writing that will engage them, you’ll go a long way to ensuring your book’s success.

So, before you begin writing, there’s some important groundwork to do.

Let’s take a look at the importance of clearly defining your target audience and doing the critical research and analysis upfront to give your book the greatest chance of success. Following are some strategies for successfully navigating these crucial steps in the book writing process.

Defining Your Target Audience

Know your why.

According to Flori Meeks Hatchett of The Writers for Hire, the first step in determining the right audience for your book is to ask yourself why you’re writing it. 

What’s your message?

Think about your message and whom you want to reach with that message. What problem are you solving for the reader? How is your approach to solving their problem unique? Why will they want to read your book? Be specific. Think about your most important readers—those who will have a strong interest in your book, and whom you must reach to make your book successful.

Establish your reader profile.

Here are some criteria and guidelines for establishing your reader profile:

• Demographics. What is their gender? What’s their education level? What’s their age, income, and profession? Where do they live?
• Psychographics. What are their values, attitudes, interests, and opinions? What’s the issue your book will help them solve? Maybe your audience is mid-life women looking for financial guidance, for example, or young professionals navigating workplace politics. What kinds of media and books do they consume? Where do they look for the solutions or inspiration they want? Whom do they trust to provide that information? Understanding their mindset and priorities will help you write a book that matters to them.
• Online behavior. Which social media platforms are they on? Are they active in Facebook groups or communities? What kinds of topics and issues are they focused on in these forums?
• Google. A Google keyword search with your key audience descriptors will help you identify the terms and topics your readers are searching for online. You can also do a Google news search with those same terms to pull up current news items and identify audience trends.
• Your existing audience. Your existing audience can give you great insight into the interests and concerns of your potential reader. If you have a website and social media presence, depending on the size of your community, you may be able to use Facebook Audience Insights or Twitter Advanced Search to identify trending hashtags or keywords among your followers. You might also consider posting a simple online survey to gauge your audience’s interest in your topic.
• A competitive analysis. Do a competitive analysis by searching top-selling similar titles on Amazon. Read the descriptions and the book jackets to learn how these titles are positioned. Read the reviews to get a sense of how readers have responded. How will your book be distinct from existing titles?
• The competition. Visit competitive author websites and social media platforms to see how those writers are positioning themselves and their books in the market, and how they’re communicating with their readers.
• Professional/industry organizations. If your topic is business-oriented, look at websites of professional/industry organizations in your industry to identify industry and audience trends.

Whether it’s a how-to for entrepreneurs, personal essays on parenthood, or a guide to the homebuying process for first-time Millennial homeowners, be clear on why your audience is reading your book and what you want them to take away from it.

A note about autobiography and memoir. Identifying the audience for this genre is less about a specific demographic or psychographic profile and more about a relatable theme. Successful autobiographies and memoirs are defined more by an unusual story or a compelling premise that resonates with readers. You can learn more about the nuances of autobiography and memoir here.

Determine your secondary markets.

While it’s critical to be as specific as possible about your target audience, keep in mind that an audience that’s too small or niche won’t be sufficiently profitable for publishers. Publishing experts recommend identifying at least two secondary markets for your book—readers who aren’t your primary target but who would still have an interest in the book.

To use a classic example, Dale Carnegie’s “How to Win Friends and Influence People” is a bestselling business and personal development book that has sold millions of copies worldwide.  The primary audience might be ambitious professionals who want to build their influence in the workplace.  A secondary audience might be people who want to improve their relationships and be more confident in social situations.  A third audience might be students studying psychology and behavior.

Create a reader persona.

A recommended practice is to write out your reader persona—a detailed description of your ideal reader—and include it with your book proposal, along with a description of your book’s value proposition for that reader. These will help you make the strongest possible case for your book to agents and editors and will serve as a valuable marketing tool once the book is published.

The time you invest in audience research and analysis is time well spent.  With a detailed picture of your target reader, you can sharpen your focus to ensure your book has a clear message and a differentiated approach for a specific audience.

Writing for Your Audience: Finding the Right Tone for Your Book

What is tone?

Defined simply, tone is the attitude the writer has toward their topic and reader. The tone of your book will determine the quality of your connection with your audience.

Is it casual and friendly? Expert and authoritative? Intimate and conversational?

Understanding your readers and their expectations will help you determine the appropriate tone for your book. What do they want to get from reading your book? Is it guidance on a specific issue? Knowledge to build their expertise? Inspiration? Entertainment?

Your writing tone should be appropriate for your topic, your relationship to your topic, and your readers’ expectations. If you’re writing about an industry-specific topic—the oil industry, for example—you’ll want your tone to convey your expertise and authority. If you’re writing a how-to book, your tone will be more straightforward and practical. An autobiography or memoir usually has a more personal, intimate tone.

Think about your conversational style. How would you talk to your reader if you were discussing your topic in person?

Examples of Writing Tone

Some examples of writing tone include:

• Serious, thoughtful
• Lighthearted, humorous
• Formal, academic  
• Informal
• Encouraging, inspirational
• Opinionated

This article has a great list of words that describe various writing tones.

Tips for Determining Writing Tone

Study your competitors. Look at comparable titles by other authors in your category to see how they write and engage with their readers.  This will give you an understanding of what works well in your niche and a point of reference to inform your own writing.

If you have an established media presence with a website and social sites, you’re already a step ahead.  You’ve established a tone on those platforms that you can now expand into your book, making it a seamless extension of your existing voice and marketing.

Be authentic. Your writing should sound like you. It should be appropriate for your subject and your readers. Maintain your tone consistently throughout the book.

Consider professional writing help.

For more help with developing your message and refining it for your audience, you may want to consider hiring a professional ghostwriter or editor.

A writing consultant can provide invaluable expertise and be a trusted partner in the often lengthy and complex process of writing a book.

Let the writing begin!

With your target audience clearly established, you can start writing with confidence.  The understanding you’ve developed of your readers and how to write for them effectively will guide you throughout the writing process.  By beginning with the end in mind and doing your audience research upfront, you’ve set yourself up for success.

Everyone dreams about writing their life story someday. Some even start writing but by the end of the first chapter, it quickly becomes apparent that finishing the book requires a great deal of commitment and a robust schedule to keep on track.

Becoming an author can be very rewarding, not only if your book does well, but also because of the new skills you will learn during the writing process.

By writing a book, you can tell your story in your own way, change other people’s lives, and even inspire whole generations.

If you are writing your first book, you are most likely employed full-time and need to schedule your writing time in the evenings and weekends, which also requires endurance and a whole lot of dedication.

In this article, we will look at what you can expect when writing a book, how much time you will likely spend writing, and some great strategies to keep your writing project moving along swiftly.

We will also explore the amount of work involved in the book writing process—the editing, proofreading, and re-writing stages—and the main milestones you must set to succeed.

What to Expect When Writing a Book

Prepare to do a ton of research.

The amount of research you will need to do will depend greatly on the type of book you are writing. A fictional novel by nature does not have to be factual; however, most writers prefer to include accurate information throughout their stories to make them more plausible.

However, nonfiction books, company history books, and corporate histories are completely different animals and require accurate and detailed research. You will also need to conduct extensive interviews with various professionals to capture their knowledge and experiences.

You will first need to make a list of your interviewees, research them, and prepare your questionnaires. Then, you must conduct the interviews and follow up as much as required.

The quality of your research will determine the richness of your book. You want to give your readers a great experience; extensive research does just that. It’s not only important to include facts during the book writing process, but also to include context.

Let’s assume you are writing a book about your ancestors in 1920s Paris. You may need to research what was fashionable at that time, what people ate, how different demographics lived, the typical jobs at the time, and so forth. Fortunately, there are a number of online sources that teach you how to research for a book.

Lastly, it’s important to make sure you read as much as you write. You really want to compile a list of books that fall roughly in the same genre as the one you are writing to get an idea of the accepted standards.

You may want to focus on reading books that are critically acclaimed; however, caution is advised here. While reading is important, you should not lose your own voice in the process.

First drafts are not always great.

Even the best writers go through a process that starts with unpacking their main ideas first and then refining, editing, and adding more color later.

The secret is not to put too much pressure on yourself when writing the first draft because it is during this stage that some of your most powerful sentences, scenes, plot lines, and ideas manifest.

First drafts are best written by relying on your first instinct, which is usually the right one. Overanalyzing your writing can be counterproductive.

You don’t have to write front to back.

Sometimes, when we are busy writing a chapter at the beginning of a book, inspiration strikes unexpectedly, and we feel compelled to write down a new idea that is nearer to the end of the story.

If you restrict yourself to writing the book in front-to-back order, you may forget the idea that popped into your head and lose out on a potentially great addition to your story. Tell the story as it comes to you and organize the book later.

Outlines are great for keeping organized.

Making lists with short synopses of what you want to be incorporated in each chapter is not only a great way to stay organized, but it also helps focus your attention on the task at hand.

You may also find that you put all your thoughts down in chronological order in your first draft, which is perfectly fine, but outlines can help you to present your scenes out of order later to help create intrigue and tension. 

Prepare for multiple revisions.

Writing a book requires an enormous amount of focus and attention to detail. This can lead to writing fatigue, which can affect your ability to look at your work objectively and stunt your creativity.

A good approach is to write the first draft and then take a break from your work for about a week or two before you start revising.

This allows your brain to recharge and gain a new perspective. You will often find that after a lengthy break, when you read your work again, you more easily pick up on poor vocabulary, sentence structures, and inconsistencies in the storyline.

The more revisions you schedule with good breaks in between, the better quality your book will be.

Prepare to get stuck.

The book-writing process is complex to say the very least and writer’s block is not a myth. The easiest part of writing a book is developing the main idea or theme of the book.

From there, you need to develop the characters, scenes, detailed storylines and setting descriptions, conversation, and so on (yes… even nonfiction books need character development). These are all fairly intricate skills to refine, and you may find at times that you simply don’t know how to develop a certain area of your book.

You may also have too many different options for which direction to take in your story and can’t decide which would be best. Getting stuck is a big part of the writing process, but there are several ways to strike up inspiration.

Sometimes, just sitting in front of your computer waiting for ideas to pop into your head is the worst thing you can do. Try to find inspiration out in the real world. Meet friends for lunch or a drink, go for a walk in the park, or do a weekend trip away. Whatever helps you relax may just help to get your creativity back and your thoughts flowing.

Get as much feedback as possible. 

Although any feedback on your work is very valuable, you should try to get objective feedback from other writers you don’t know. Having a close relationship with someone who reviews your work may result in the feedback not being entirely objective or brutally honest.

Even though you can and should maintain veto power, feedback helps you improve your work, generate new suggestions, perhaps pick up on some issues you have not considered, and maybe get a bigger-picture perspective.

When asked why feedback is so important, writer and editor Jennifer Rizzo at The Writers For Hire said:

“When you are writing a book, you often become too close to the subject matter or the book’s contents to really give it a critical and unbiased review. Having that second (or third) set of eyes to look over your book is critical in ensuring that the chapters all flow well together, that there are not any big holes or inconsistencies, and that the book has the right tone for your target audience.”

Prepare to get exhausted.

Writing a book can take a toll on various aspects of your well-being. If you do not plan regular breaks in your book-writing schedule, you may start to notice some mental fatigue.

The book writing process requires intensive mental efforts, such as constant creative thinking, problem-solving, and decision-making.

You may also notice some emotional strain, especially if you are writing about difficult personal experiences.

Lastly, you will likely spend a lot of time sitting up at a desk or computer, which can be physically draining, so make sure to take regular breaks.

Prepare to forget some details.

By the time you have written 70,000 to 80,000 words, the small details in your book can be tricky to recall from memory.

Keeping notes on your story’s focus and timelines is a great way to overcome this. Remember, the details are important, and any inconsistencies here could damage what may be a great book.

Time Allocation & Editorial Calendar

The time it takes to write a book can vary greatly, depending on several factors such as the length of the book, the author’s writing style, and their level of experience. Some authors can write a book in a few months, while others may take years.

Here are some tips for creating a good writing schedule:

1. Set a realistic deadline. Determine when you want to finish your book and work backward to determine how much time you have to write. Be realistic about the amount of time you can devote to writing each day or week.

2. Break your book into manageable chunks. Divide your book into sections or chapters and set goals for completing each section or chapter. This will help you stay focused and motivated.

3. Determine your writing time. Figure out the time of day when you are most productive and creative. This could be early morning, late at night, or during your lunch break. Schedule your writing time during your most productive hours.

4. Be consistent. Try to write at the same time every day or every week to establish a routine. This will help you stay disciplined and make progress.

5. Build in flexibility. Life can be unpredictable, so build in some flexibility to your writing schedule. Allow for unexpected events, writer’s block, or other setbacks.

6. Use a calendar or planner. Use a calendar or planner to map out your writing schedule and track your progress. This will help you stay organized and motivated.

7. Be accountable. Share your writing goals with a friend or writing group and check in regularly to stay accountable. This can provide motivation and support when you need it.

Rizzo adds that:

“Editorial calendars are a great way to ensure that your book project stays on task and that you meet all deadlines. While there can be some wiggle room within the calendar, setting dates and goals (and sticking with them) is really vital to keep your project moving forward in a timely manner. Without having a solid editorial calendar, projects can easily get sidelined. This is probably one of the main reasons so many books are started but never finished.”

Common Obstacles

When writing a book, there are several obstructions that can occur that can slow down progress or even prevent an author from completing their work.

Here are some common obstructions that writers may face:

1. Writer’s block. This is a common obstacle that can occur when a writer feels stuck and unable to move forward with their writing. It can be caused by a variety of factors such as self-doubt, lack of inspiration, or fear of failure.

2. Distractions. Writing a book requires a great deal of focus and concentration. Distractions such as social media, emails, or other responsibilities can disrupt a writer’s flow and make it difficult to stay on track.

3. Time constraints. Many writers have other commitments such as work, family, or other responsibilities that can make it difficult to find the time to write.

4. Perfectionism. Some writers may get caught up in trying to make their writing perfect and spend too much time editing and revising.

5. Lack of motivation. Writing a book is a long-term project, and it can be easy to lose motivation along the way.

6. Research obstacles. Depending on the topic of the book, the author may face research obstacles such as difficulty finding information or lack of access to sources.

Imposter Syndrome

Imposter syndrome is one of the biggest challenges some new writers face. It is a psychological phenomenon where some writers doubt their own abilities and feel like they are not “real” writers, even though they may have achieved some success or recognition for their work in the past.

Imposter syndrome can manifest in a variety of ways, including:

• Feeling like a fraud or impostor when receiving praise or recognition for their writing.
• Believing that their writing is not good enough, even if others disagree.
• Comparing themselves to other writers and feeling inadequate.
• Feeling like they are not a “real” writer because they don’t write full-time or have a traditional publishing contract.
• Struggling with writer’s block or procrastination due to feelings of self-doubt.

Imposter syndrome can be caused by a variety of factors, including a fear of rejection or failure, unreasonable expectations, and perhaps a lack of confidence.

It can be detrimental to a writer’s mental health and productivity, as it can lead to self-sabotage and a lack of creativity.

To overcome writer’s imposter syndrome, it is very important for new writers to recognize their own achievements and value, and for them to develop a positive and realistic self-image.

This can be achieved by reframing negative self-talk, looking for support from other writers or a writing group, and setting realistic goals and expectations.

It is also important to remember that everyone experiences self-doubt and that it is a natural part of the creative process.

Book Writing Strategies

Here is a breakdown of what each letter in the acronym SMART stands for:

1. Specific. The objective should be clear and specific. It should answer the questions of what, why, who, and how.

2. Measurable. The objective should be measurable in some way, so you can track progress and determine when it has been achieved. It should answer the questions of how much, how many, or how will you know when it’s complete.

3. Achievable. The objective should be achievable and realistic, given the resources, time, and other constraints you have.

4. Relevant. The objective should be relevant to the overall project or goal and contribute meaningfully to its success.

5. Time-bound. The objective should be time-bound, with a clear deadline or timeline for completion. It should answer the question of when.

Additionally, you may want to set yourself some realistic word count goals. Be careful not to over-commit, but, If you want to write your book fast, good word count ambitions could be:

• 1,500-2,000 words per session
• 9,000-15,000 words per week
• 35,000-50,000 words per month

When asked how many words per day new writers should consider committing to, Rizzo says:

“I don’t know that there is really a number of words that new writers should commit to. However, I do recommend that all writers commit a good chunk of time to writing each day (or each week, depending on deadlines and your schedule). Having a consistent block of time set aside for writing is much more effective than trying to get a few minutes in here or there. For one, scheduling time to write will ensure that you actually take the time to write. In addition, giving yourself uninterrupted writing time helps keep the words and thoughts flowing.”

Establishing a consistent writing routine is the best chance of achieving your word count targets. Plan your routine around your available time and the time of day you are most productive and do your best to balance your writing with all your other commitments.

Procrastination is one of the evil forces you must combat, so try not to skip any writing sessions on your schedule. Online distractions such as watching the news or scrolling social media can also tempt you away from your tasks, so it may be helpful to use a site blocker for the duration of your schedule.

It is essential where you write. Try to find a space away from other people where you feel calm, focused, and free from noise and other distractions. You may also want to invest in a good book writing software, a few good ones to consider are:

• Scrivener
• Milanote
• FocusWriter
• The Reedsy Book Editor

Another great motivator is to incentivize yourself for completing chapters and drafts. These incentives can be anything you like, such as booking a holiday once your book is done or a dinner out at a fine restaurant when you complete a chapter. The key is to reward yourself for the hard work you do.

Lastly, try not to get caught up in the stress of writing. The more you enjoy the writing process, the more dynamic your writing will be.

How much work can I expect?

The amount of work involved in writing a book can vary greatly, depending on a number of factors, including the length and complexity of the book, your writing speed and experience, and the amount of research or other preparation required.

The drafting stage involves actually writing the first draft of the book, which can take weeks, months, or even years, depending on the length and complexity of the book and your pace.

The revising stage involves reviewing and revising the first draft, which may require multiple rounds of edits and rewrites. This stage can also take several weeks or months. Finally, the editing stage involves proofreading the manuscript for errors and polishing the language and style.

Overall, writing a book can be a significant undertaking that requires a lot of time, effort, and dedication. It is essential for you to be prepared for the amount of work involved and to have realistic expectations for the process.

The Editing Phase

The editing phase of a new book involves several stages and tasks to ensure that the manuscript is polished and ready for publication. Here are some of the tasks involved in the editing phase:

1. Developmental Editing. This involves looking at the big picture of the manuscript, including plot, pacing, characterization, and overall structure. The editor may suggest changes or revisions to improve the flow and coherence of the story.

2. Line Editing. This involves reviewing the manuscript line by line to improve the language and style. The editor may suggest changes to sentence structure, word choice, and overall tone to make the manuscript more engaging and readable.

3. Copy Editing. This involves checking the manuscript for grammar, punctuation, spelling, and other errors. The editor may also ensure consistency in style and formatting.

4. Proofreading. This involves a final check for errors in the manuscript before publication.

Throughout the editing phase, the editor should work closely with you to ensure that your vision for the book is realized while also ensuring that the book meets publishing standards. The editor may provide feedback and suggestions, and you may need to revise and rewrite parts of the manuscript based on the editor’s recommendations.

The Re-Writing Phase

The rewriting phase of a book typically involves revising and improving the manuscript based on feedback from editors, beta readers, or your own assessment. Here are some of the tasks involved in the rewrite phase:

1. Reviewing feedback. You should review feedback from editors, beta readers, or other sources to identify areas that need improvement.

2. Revising plot and characters. You may need to make changes to the plot or characters to address feedback or improve the story.

3. Revising structure and pacing. You may need to adjust the structure and pacing of the story to improve the flow and coherence of the book.

4. Revising language and style. You may need to revise the language and style of the book to make it more engaging and readable.

5. Conducting more research. If the book is based on research, you may need to revise sections to ensure accuracy and relevance.

6. Adding or deleting content. You may need to add or delete content to improve the story or address feedback.

Throughout the rewrite phase, you should work closely with editors or beta readers to ensure that the book is improved and polished to the best possible version. The rewriting phase can take significant time and effort, but it is an important step in the process of creating a quality book.

The Proofreading Phase

The proofreading phase of a new book is an important step in the publishing process that involves checking the manuscript for errors and ensuring that it meets publishing standards. Some of the tasks involved in the proofreading phase include:

1. Checking for typos and spelling errors. The proofreader will review the manuscript line by line to check for spelling errors, typos, and grammatical errors.

2. Checking for consistency. The proofreader will check for consistency in spelling, punctuation, and formatting throughout the manuscript.

3. Checking for accuracy. The proofreader will verify that all facts, dates, and names mentioned in the book are accurate and consistent.

4. Checking for formatting errors. The proofreader will ensure that headings, subheadings, fonts, and margins are consistent and meet publishing standards.

5. Checking for layout and design errors. The proofreader will check for errors in the layout and design of the book, such as page numbering, spacing, and alignment.

6. Checking for legal and ethical issues. The proofreader will verify that the manuscript does not contain any legal or ethical issues that could pose a risk for you or the publisher.

7. Communicating with the author or editor. The proofreader may need to communicate with you or your editor to clarify certain passages or resolve any issues that arise during the proofreading process.

Setting Milestones

Setting milestones can help your writing stay organized and focused throughout the writing and publishing process. It can also help ensure that the book is completed and published in a timely and efficient manner. Some milestones to consider include:

• A deadline for completing the first draft. Setting a deadline for completing the first draft of the manuscript can help you stay focused and motivated throughout the writing process.
• A deadline for completing revisions. After receiving feedback from editors or beta readers, set a deadline for completing revisions to ensure that the manuscript is polished and ready for publication.
• A deadline for submitting to publishers or agents. If you plan to submit the manuscript to publishers or literary agents, setting a deadline for submission can help ensure that the manuscript is ready, and that the submission process is organized and efficient.
• Publication date. Once the manuscript has been accepted for publication, setting a publication date can help you and the publisher coordinate the marketing and promotion of the book.
• Marketing and promotional milestones. You may want to set milestones for marketing and promoting the book, such as securing book reviews, scheduling book events or signings, or reaching out to media outlets for interviews or features.

When asked what milestones she considers to be critical, Rizzo says:

“The first important milestone is coming up with an outline for your book. This outline helps you to organize your thoughts, know exactly what information you will write about in each chapter or section, and have an idea for the flow from start to finish.

After the outline, it’s imperative to decide what tone and style you want your book to be written in. This is the step where you will need to do competitive research and nail down your target audience to determine what tone/style works best for them.

Once you have those two steps taken care of, the next real major milestone is writing each individual section or chapter of your book. That is followed by editing and peer review, as well as necessary revisions.

Finally, before your book is ready for publication, you will need to have a proofreader go through the entire thing to check for any grammar or spelling issues, as well as any inconsistencies.”

Writing a book can be a very challenging but rewarding experience. It will push your determination and commitment to new levels.

The key to success is planning a robust schedule and sticking to your writing sessions and deadlines.

You will get frustrated throughout the process and you might even at times want to give up, but, if you push through all the emotional and other challenges, you will find the ultimate sense of accomplishment waiting for you on the other side.

“Nonfiction” is a blanket term used to describe literature that is based on factual people, events, and things.

While “nonfiction” may not strike you as being a very broad term, it actually encompasses a huge percentage of literature that is written.  In fact, you may be surprised to find out that there are actually many more genres in nonfiction than fiction. This is due to the fact that each genre has multiple sub-categories.

Listing all of the different nonfiction genres and their sub-categories would be nearly impossible, so we have compiled a list of some of the most common genres you will find in nonfiction.

Autobiographies

An autobiography is a book that is a book about a person’s life, written by that person. Autobiographies are most often written chronologically and in first person.  

Examples of Autobiographies:

In Pieces, by Sally Fields and Long Walk to Freedom: The Autobiography of Nelson Mandela

Biographies

Like autobiographies, biographies are factual books about a person’s life. However, biographies are written by a person who has done an in-depth study of the subject’s life. Biographies are generally written in third person and can be written with or without the consent of the subject.

Examples of Biographies:

Robin by David Itzkoff  and Leonardo DaVinci by Walter Isaacson

Memoirs

A memoir is a personal narrative of one’s life that generally focuses on a specific window of time or event within their life. Memoirs are generally more emotionally focused than autobiographies and are usually written in first person.

Examples of Memoirs:

The Glass Castle: A Memoir by Jeannette Walls and Educated: A Memoir by Tara Westover

Academic Books

These are the kinds of books that you were required to read in college. They are the long-form culmination of research in a particular field of study. Academic books can be written on a large array of topics, from science and math to language and psychology.

Examples of Academic Books:

A Brief History of Time by Stephen Hawking and The Wealth of Nations by Adam Smith

Technical Books

This genre encompasses a large variety of books including manuals, guides, textbooks, and handbooks. Technical books are generally books that are used as a point of reference and can include instructions for completing certain tasks and/or comprehensive information about a subject.

Examples of Technical Books:

Reference Books

Like technical books, reference books are generally informational books that are used as a point of reference. However, reference books tend to be more concise, containing information intended to be found quickly. Reference books are not generally read from cover to cover, but instead are used to find particular pieces of information. This genre includes things such as dictionaries, thesauruses, encyclopedias, and atlases. 

Examples of Reference Books:

The Merriam-Webster Dictionary by Merriam Webster and National Geographic Atlas of the World by National Geographic

Business

Whether they’re written for budding entrepreneurs or well-established company CEOs, business books are extremely popular reads. This genre covers everything from how to start a business and be successful, to productivity advice and client-relations tips.

Examples of Business Books:

The Intelligent Investor by Benjamin Graham  and How to Win Friends and Influence People by Dale Carnegie  

Travel Guides

Travel guides are informational books about travel in a particular country or area. These books generally provide helpful travel tips, recommendations for places to stay and things to do, as well as specific information about the particular area of travel.

Examples of Travel Guides:

Rick Steves Italy 2019 by Rick Steves and Lonely Planet Panama (Travel Guide) by Lonely Planet  

Self-help

Also known as self-improvement books, self-help books are written with the intention of assisting readers in solving their personal problems. These books can encompass any number of topics from addiction and mental health to money matters and parenting.

Examples of Self-help Books:

Best Self: Be You, Only Better by Mike Bayer  and How to Talk So Kids Will Listen & Listen So Kids Will Talk by Adele Faber and Elaine Mazlish

Food Writing

From cookbooks and fad diets to cultural food guides and food history, food books are one of the most popular nonfiction genres. These books frequently include recipes and step-by-step instructions for preparing food. They can also include health information and guides for following particular diets as well as facts about history and cultural ties to food.

Examples of Food Books:

Mastering the Art of French Cooking by Julia Child  and 1,000 Foods to Eat Before You Die: A Food Lover’s Life List by Mimi Sheraton

Home Improvement and DIY Books

Another hugely popular genre is home improvement and DIY. These books are instructional guides that cover everything from gardening to installing your own cabinets and remodeling your bathroom.

Examples of Home Improvement/DIY Books:

Gardening Basics for Dummies by Steven A. Frowine and The Martha Manual: How to Do (Almost) Everything by Martha Stewart

Nonfiction books can be an excellent tool for establishing thought leadership in your industry.

Of course, taking a book from a blank manuscript to a published product is much easier said than done.

One of the most common yet seldom considered challenges to writing a nonfiction book is whether it’s the right time to do so. After all, just because you can do something right now doesn’t mean you necessarily should.

In this blog, we’ll lay out how to decide the right time for you by going over how to set goals for your book, conduct research, and tackle common problems to give you a competitive edge.

3 Ways To Know if Now Is the Right Time To Write a Nonfiction Book

1. Setting the Right Goals

The first step to deciding if now is the right time is to figure out what the goals of your book will be.

• What are you trying to achieve beyond establishing or demonstrating thought leadership?
• What new insight, advice, or expertise are you trying to share with your audience?
• Who is the primary audience of your book? Those already deep in your industry who could be seen as peers? Those just breaking into the industry who could use advice? Outsiders looking into the industry? This should also be informed by what you’re trying to communicate via your book.
• What do you want your audience to do after they finish reading your book? Take action based on your advice? Come to respect your expertise? Both?

Whatever your answers to these questions may be, remember to keep your goals realistic. Be honest with yourself about whether you have the expertise and vision to make this book a reality.

If the answer is no, then it’s better to wait until that changes.

2. Using Competitive Research To Find a Good Angle

As this excellent article from the U.S. Chamber of Commerce explains, competitive research helps you to understand why your customers might choose to buy from you over your competitors, and vice versa. It helps you to understand trends in your market, improve your marketing, identify market gaps, and then use that information to plan for the future.

Another means to find an angle is to pay close attention to ongoing trends and events in the industry and try to offer your insight on what effect they’ve had and where they might be going.

As the Chamber of Commerce’s article goes over in detail, there are six steps to conducting competitive research:

1. Identify your main competitors. This step is usually as simple as going on the web and searching for others in your industry offering similar products and services. For the sake of your book’s angle, it’s also a good idea to search for those putting out similar thought leadership content.
2. Analyze your competitors’ online presence. Go through your competitor’s website, their content, and their social media. You’ll be gathering a variety of information here: what the user experience on their website is like; how active they are on social media; how often they post and update content; and what type of content and topics they focus on. This will all help to get an idea of the existing landscape and how your book might be able to alter it.
3. Gather information about your competitors. One of the best ways to do this is to pose as a customer. This can include signing up for their email list; following their blog and social media to get a feel for how they communicate; and shopping from them to better understand what their customer experience is like.
4. Track your findings. Keep track of your competitors and the data you collect on them somewhere that’s easily organized and updated, such as a spreadsheet. You’ll want to record the information gathered and continue to monitor it over time in case of changes.
5. Check online reviews. Read through as many online reviews of your competitors as you can find, including social media posts and blog comments left by customers. Doing so will give you a better understanding of not just what your competitors are doing right, but also what they’re getting wrong. By identifying their strengths and weaknesses, you gain a point of reference to better reflect on your own. This will, in turn, help you decide if now is truly the right time to write your nonfiction book.
6. Identify areas for improvement. How can you use the above information to improve your own business or strengthen your thought leadership in the industry? What gaps in the market have you identified? What trends and developments are your competitors seeming to take advantage of, and which ones are they neglecting?

There are many potential angles you might find in the course of your competitive research. Which one you go with is ultimately up to you.

If, after your first round of research, you can’t find an angle, there’s no shame in delaying your book until you do. Just remember to keep monitoring the competition so you’ll know about ongoing developments.

3. Identifying Common Problems You Can Help Solve

Beyond identifying what portions of the population are being underserved, competitive research can also help you find common problems in your industry that your competitors have yet to solve.

Knowing how to get started with a nonfiction book may seem like a daunting task. In particular, tackling the research side of writing a nonfiction book can seem tough to handle.

The good news is that research for a nonfiction project is much easier than meets the eye. You just have to take the right approach and get yourself organized.

In this article, we will focus on actionable tips and strategies both seasoned and novice writers can put into practice when deciding how to do research for their nonfiction book.

Gathering Material

When thinking about how to do research for a book, the key is to gather material through a structured and consistent system.

• Research. Start by conducting thorough research on the topic. This approach can include reading books, articles, and academic papers, and conducting interviews with experts in the field.
• Personal experience. When authors have personal experience or expertise in the topic they want to write about, they can draw upon their own experiences and knowledge to build their writing.
• Observation. Sometimes the best material for a nonfiction book comes from simply observing the surrounding world. Taking note of interesting trends, behaviors, and events related to the topic can yield valuable information and insights.
• Online resources. Now, more than ever, the internet is a great source of information for finding relevant websites, forums, and social media groups. The internet can also help authors connect with other people who may share valuable information and insights.
• Archives. If the topic is historical in nature, consider visiting archives, museums, and other institutions that house primary sources related to the subject matter.
• Surveys or polls. Surveys or polls can be a great way to gather data and opinions about the topic. This approach can help authors understand the audience’s perspectives and tailor writing accordingly.

Best Nonfiction Book Research Sources

The best sources of information for a nonfiction book depend on the topic at hand. It is important to use a variety of sources when gathering information for a nonfiction book.

Additionally, a good rule of thumb is always to verify the accuracy of information. Great information sources for nonfiction books include:

• Books. Books on the topic can provide valuable background information, historical context, and in-depth analysis. Both print and digital books can become the foundation for a full-length nonfiction project.
• Academic journals. Academic journals are a great source of peer-reviewed research and scholarship. They can help authors understand the latest developments in their field and provide updated data and statistics.
• Interviews. Interviews with experts, professionals, and people with personal experience can provide unique insights and perspectives. Experts help authors gather firsthand accounts and anecdotal evidence to support writing.
• Government reports. Government reports can be valuable information sources on topics such as policy, law, and social issues. Authors can use government reports as official data to support claims and opinions.
• Online databases. Online databases such as JSTOR, ProQuest, and Google Scholar can provide access to a wide range of scholarly articles, books, and other resources.
• Primary sources. Primary sources such as diaries, letters, and other historical documents can provide firsthand accounts of events and people written in their own voices.
• News articles. News articles can provide up-to-date information on current events. They can help authors understand how the topic is being covered in the media. Also, old newspaper articles can help fill in the gaps when researching a historical topic.

Using Citations

Citations should be included in a nonfiction book whenever authors use information or ideas that are not theirs.

The specific style used depends on the field and the requirements of the nonfiction book publishers or editors.

In general, citations should be included:

• Anytime there is a direct quote of someone else’s words.
• Anytime the author paraphrases or summarizes someone else’s ideas or information.
• Anytime the author uses data, statistics, or other information that is not common knowledge.
• Anytime there is a reference to another author’s work or ideas.

Citations can be included in the text of the book (in-text citations), a separate bibliography, or a reference list. Whatever style is used, it is important to be consistent and follow the guidelines of the chosen citation style.

Strategies for Organizing Research Materials

The key to organizing large research volumes is finding a system that works. It is important to remain consistent and take the time to review and update research materials regularly.

Staying organized allows authors to write a more comprehensive and compelling nonfiction book.

While organizing large volumes of research may seem like a daunting task, the good news is that several strategies can help authors to stay organized:

• Develop a system. Create a system for organizing research materials, such as a spreadsheet or database. For instance, including information such as the author, title, publication date, and keywords for each source helps keep track of materials used throughout the book.
• Use folders or binders. Create physical folders or binders to organize printed materials, such as articles or book chapters. Label each folder or binder with the topic or subtopic it relates to.
• Take notes. Take detailed notes on each source reviewed, summarizing the key points and any relevant quotes. Use a consistent format for important notes, such as bullet points or a table, to easily compare and analyze them later. Voice notes can also help organize information on the go. However, transferring voice notes to paper is always a good idea.
• Categorize research materials. Divide research materials into categories based on the book’s structure or themes. This approach helps keep related materials together and makes it easier to identify gaps in research.
• Use software tools. There are many software tools available that can help authors organize research, such as Evernote, Zotero, or EndNote. These tools can help store, tag, and search through the research materials during the writing phase.
• Prioritize research. Focus on the most important sources first, such as those most relevant to the book’s main themes or the most recent or authoritative.

Here are some additional tips and tools for organizing large volumes of research:

• Mind maps. Mind maps can be a helpful visual tool for organizing ideas and concepts. Use software like MindMeister or draw one by hand to help identify connections between different sources and topics.
• Color coding. Use color coding to distinguish between different topics or themes visually. This strategy can help authors quickly identify which sources are relevant to which book sections.
• Outlines. Create an outline of the book to help spot how research fits together. Use this as a roadmap for organizing research materials.
• Tags. Use tags to categorize research materials and make it easier to search for specific sources later. Tools like Zotero, Mendeley, and Evernote allow authors to tag sources.
• OneNote. Use OneNote to organize research materials, take notes, and collaborate with others. OneNote allows authors to create notebooks and sections for different topics and tag and search notes.
• Google Drive. Use Google Drive to store research materials and collaborate with others. Authors can create folders and subfolders for different topics. Also, authors can use Google Docs to write and edit the book. Google Docs works very well for collaborative efforts and real-time information sharing.
• Excel spreadsheets. Use Excel spreadsheets to organize research materials and track progress. Authors can use columns to quickly organize data, and filters and sorts to find what they need.

Using Google to Find Information on Specific Dates and Events

• Use quotation marks. Use quotation marks around the event name when searching for a specific event. For example, authors looking for the date of the Boston Tea Party can type “Boston Tea Party” into the search box.
• Include relevant keywords. To narrow down search results, include relevant keywords in the search query. For example, authors looking for the date of the Boston Tea Party could add keywords like “American Revolution” or “colonial history” to aid search engine algorithms in spotting relevant information sources.
• Use Google’s advanced search. Go to Google’s advanced search page and enter the event name or keywords in the “all these words” box. Then, in the “date” section, select a specific range of dates or a specific year to help narrow down search results.
• Use Google Books. Google Books can be a helpful resource for finding specific dates of events. Search for books related to the event. Use the search function within the book to find specific dates or references.
• Check historical websites. Many historical websites, such as History.com or the National Archives, have information on specific events and their dates. Use Google to search for these websites and check their content.

Using Google to Find Information on People and Places

When googling names of people and places, it is important to keep in mind that search results can be overwhelming and sometimes inaccurate. Here are some tips to help find accurate and relevant information:

• Use quotation marks. When searching for a specific name, use quotation marks around the name to ensure that the search engine returns results that include the exact phrase. For example, authors searching for information about “Albert Einstein” can put his name in quotation marks.
• Add relevant keywords. To narrow down search results, add relevant keywords to the search query. For example, authors searching for information about “Albert Einstein” could add keywords like “relativity” or “physics.”
• Use advanced search. Google’s advanced search allows authors to filter results based on various criteria, such as language, file type, and date range. This approach can help authors find more specific and relevant information.
• Check multiple sources. Always check multiple sources when researching people and places to ensure that the information found is accurate and reliable. Look for information from reputable sources, such as academic or government websites, and cross-check it with multiple sources.
• Be aware of biases. Keep in mind that search engines can sometimes reflect biases in the way information is presented. Be aware of these biases and try to look for information from a variety of sources to get a more balanced perspective.
• Use maps and images. When searching for information about places, use Google Maps or Google Images to get a better sense of the location and surrounding area. This tactic can help authors understand the context of the place and find more relevant information.

When googling names of people and places, it is important to be patient and persistent, and to take the time to evaluate carefully the sources and information found.

Putting It All Together

Getting research right is a major step in ensuring successful nonfiction books. That is why having a structured and consistent system can make a significant difference throughout the research, writing, and editing process.

Authors can get started by focusing on what approach they would like to take. Specifically, finding an approach that meets individual styles and personalities can go a long way toward facilitating the entire book writing process.

There is one additional note to consider. Developing the right system can sometimes become a question of trial and error. Therefore, authors should not be afraid to try different approaches until they find one that works well.

Ultimately, it is best to discard what does not work and focus on what does.