Steps to Write a Book

A lot of people are discouraged when they think of ALL the things they have to do to write their own storybook. If you’re having these troubles, it’s not your fault. It just shows how much you care and want to do an excellent job.

To help you with your story project, I've written up the steps to write a book. Feel free to add or delete as you please. But follow the general steps and try not to sidetrack!

1. Research. Look at some stories that give your inspiration for your own story. Or even go on the internet and look up details for your topic/genre. See also these story ideas...



2. Goals. I like the idea of setting a small goal or destination point. Try the who, what, where, when, why, and hows.



3. Outline. I barely function writing without outlines. The outline is your plan.



4. First Draft. This is the cool and easy draft. Write out all your ideas. Don't fuss with grammar or any other details. Those details are for later. Focus on the overview, does the outline check out now?



5. Break. Take a break and let your story sit for a while. This breathing time will allow you to see your story more objectively. Read your story after a break.



6. Revise Outline. If your outline doesn't sound so great now, rework it. No big deal.



7. Repeat. Repeat steps 5 and 6 till you're satisfied with your storyline.



8. Details. Now you can fuss with the details and other stuff that you've been itching for. Again, break and revise, break and revise.



9. Pictures. Optional: Start designing the pictures to accompany your story.



10. Book. Make or buy a blank book and write or print your story in it. Remember to leave room for cover pages, credits, prefaces, or about the authors!



11. Results. Make copies for your family and friends to show off all your hard work.