How to write an Ebook
There are two parts to writing. First, organising what you're going to write eg deciding on the chapter headings, subsections, and introduction and conclusion, and secondly actually getting down to it, overcoming writer's block and putting pen to paper or tapping it out on the computer keyboard.
Getting Organised...
You need an outline, which at its simplest follows this pattern;
introduction where you tell your readers what you're going to tell them
chapter headings where you title the subject you're going to cover
subsections which break down the chapters into individual points
a conclusion where you tell your readers what you told them.
The act or process of writing, where you sit down in front of a blank piece of paper or a glowing white screen is a psychological process that requires certain mental techniques to achieve.
There are three kinds of writer's block,
Can't start, Don't know what to write and Can't finish!
1. Can't Start
To start, you must be relaxed, I find early morning is the best time to this, just after you wake up. Deep breathing to calm and clear the mind can help too. The biggest barrier is self-censorship. Trying to be perfect, before you've even started is fatal. Remember writing is a process. The best way to write good staff is to write out all the rubbish first. Just get it down, whatever your thoughts, without stepping to think if it's any good or not, or how it fits in with your overall blueprint. All that comes later, when you edit and re right. But you need something to edit, so get going and don't think too much about how good or bad it is.
2. Don't know what to write...
This can also be a problem in the first part of writing. When you're not sure of what to chapter headings, you need and what to include a subsections. He is a super tip, create an A-Z list
on blank pieces of paper put a BCDE etc all the way to let down the left-hand side leave a couple of inches between each letter and you should have for five a for sheets will stop.
Beside each letter of the alphabet, fill in anything remotely related to your topic or subject. At least one word or phrase by each letter (you will need a sense of humour when it comes to ex-and lead!) This is your idea sheet. Use it to brainstorm your chapter headings and subheadings
3. Can't Finish...
This is the most difficult of all to overcome and there is a simple but embarrassing answer. Read what you have written aloud. Read it out loud. Edit it then read it aloud again! This makes all the difference, believe me, just make sure you're miles from anywhere and not likely to be overheard. Cynical laughter can dampen the most creative spirit!
Click and Save...
The only other thing you need to know is how to technically create your PDF file e-book ready to be downloaded.
The good news. There is a free wordprocessor called OpenOffice which you can download from openoffice.org.
Write your e-book in this wordprocessor, format it just how you want it (it's easier to use of Microsoft Word) then you click on the 'convert to PDF' symbol on the toolbar and hey presto, you just have to decide where on your computer to save your new e-book!
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