Non-fiction writing is a highly specialized genre. Where other types of writing are designed to draw readers into a story, non-fiction writing is used to educate and direct. That means it can require more research than other genres. Non-fiction writing must read the line between educating and entertaining. The best non-fiction books grab your attention and keep you enthralled while simultaneously helping you learn.
- Know why you’re writing. Most non-fiction writing is intended to teach or instruct. What lesson or knowledge are you hoping to share with your reader?
- Know how you write. Do you write better at night in a quiet house? Does your writing benefit from the hustle and bustle of your local coffee shop? Get to know your best writing times and use them to your advantage.
- Know how to create an outline for finishing your book. Start your book by writing a Table of Contents – essentially a list of what you hope to teach your reader. Use this Table of Contents as an outline for writing and finishing your book.
- Know who you’re writing for. Hint: IT’S NOT YOU. Write – and market – your book with your ideal reader in mind. What do they want to learn? How do you hope they’ll react? What will be their major take away?
- Know how to leverage social media to market your book. Being careful not to engage in hardcore selling practices, social media is a cost-effective way to reach your readers and engage with them.
Above all else, remember that non-fiction writing is meant to engage, teach and instruct. These simple tips will help you write a non-fiction book your reader will clamor after. One of the best features of non-fiction books is this: once your initial reader learns from your expertise, they frequently recommend your book to their peers. THAT’S a bonus!
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