How to Write a Book 10 Easy Steps

Many people came to me and asked me, how did you write a book? It’s simple. I started just writing a paragraph. Then, I developed it until it was a story.

Here’s what I’ve learned.

Write, re-write, read, and re-read your work.

Here’s a list of 10 basic steps to writing a book.

1. After you finish a draft, take a break. It is a good thing to put it aside and work on something else. Come back after some time and continue working on it. Fresh eyes and fresh ideas are always a good thing.
2. Read your work and pick out things that you are not happy with. Get rid of things that aren’t needed. Shorten your book to a concise story. Don’t put too much fluff.
3. Re-write your story after you pick out and fix things. You can choose to change things if you wish. I found it easy to change things after taking notes on my first read through.
4. Don’t be afraid to get rid of things that you like, but know won’t further your story. I believe it was Stephen King who said, “kill your darlings.” I found that I wanted to keep things in my book. They just didn’t belong there after reflection.
5. Make sure that your flow is just right. I found that at times I rushed through something. Sometimes, I found parts dragging on and on.
6. Make changes that will fit your book. Don’t use things that are overused or names that are too familiar. It gets boring to read 20 books with the main character as, ‘Olivia.’
7. Create a character development chart. I created an excel sheet for each character with all sorts of information. Really get to know your character. Inside and out. This will help to make sure you are true to your characters.
8. Get an outside opinion. Ask about plot, places, names, and story. It is a great help for someone else to read your work. They have different views and see things you might not. Accept help and criticism in your work.
9. Outline your story including main goals of characters and your story ending. I found making an outline of the book was simple. Then I added chapters and the construction of each based on what I felt progressed the story.
10. Keep writing. Don’t give up. There were plenty of times that I’d rather of thrown the towel in. Writer’s block included. Keep going and you will get to the end. Be patient and reward yourself for finishing a chapter.



One step at a time. Writing a book takes time. Start with one sentence and then keep writing. That’s what I did and I finished my book.

I hope this was helpful.