It’s amazing how many people still believe there’s a special formula for writing a book. They sit down, pour out what they assume others will rush to the bookstore to buy, and then—voilà—they expect success.
After finishing the manuscript, they might ask a friend or acquaintance to act as an editor. But often, that “editor” simply reads the work, marks a few typos, adds some casual feedback, and moves on—usually with a bit of money in hand. The writer, thinking the job is done, creates a cover, uploads the file, and waits.
With luck, a few friends buy a copy, offer some kind words, and that’s the end of it.
So what’s the takeaway from this lesson?
There’s no shortcut to creating a good book.
A Journey in Three Parts
Over the next few columns, we’ll walk through the self-publishing journey—from writing the manuscript to working with professionals who can help polish it, and finally, to marketing your work so it lands in front of real readers.
How long will this series take? That depends on how much inspiration strikes as I write.
So buckle up. Let’s begin with the part that matters most: writing.
Part 1 – Writing
Every writer starts somewhere. The question is: how?
My friend Tom Taylor begins by outlining the entire novel, jotting down key moments before writing anything. Mel Cober, on the other hand, dives right in—no outline, no prep—just pure discovery. Jennifer from my writing group maps out her plot, chapter by chapter, and builds detailed character profiles before starting the draft. Mike, a newer writer, uses “mind mapping” to visualize his story in sections, drafting scenes in fragments before assembling them.
All of these methods are valid. They work because they fit each writer’s personality and process.
As for me, I begin with characters and a general plot line. I usually know how it ends, too. I often draft a first chapter outline or even write a full intro—whether or not it makes the final cut. From there, I build out the story chapter by chapter.
Will this approach work for you? Maybe. Maybe not. That’s for you to discover.
The Core Elements of Storytelling
No matter how you write, your story will benefit from some foundational elements:
- Characters
- Setting
- Protagonist
- Antagonist
- Conflict
- Rising Action
- Climax
- Falling Action
- Conclusion
These don’t need to appear in a strict order, but they do need to be considered. Understanding how they function in your narrative helps you craft a compelling experience for your reader.
Make Time for the Craft
Let’s talk about commitment.
When I say, “Get ready to write,” I mean carve out real time for it. Whether you’re writing early in the morning, late at night, or in quick bursts during your day—protect that time. Eliminate distractions, clear the space, and focus.
My friend Tom would agree. His advice? Turn off the TV.
He once shared a story about a fellow writer who complained about struggling to finish a chapter. Tom, perceptive as ever, asked if he’d enjoyed the hockey game the night before. The writer said yes—and Tom responded, “I didn’t watch it. I was writing.”
It’s wise advice: reduce distractions and stay disciplined. But that doesn’t work for everyone.
Find What Works for You
When I wrote A Spear in Flight—currently being test-read—I did it at work, during breaks, and while watching TV. I even wrote some parts with The Dick Van Dyke Show playing in the background. In 30 days (thank you, NaNoWriMo), I had 76,000 words.
That’s how my brain works. The noise helps slow my thoughts just enough to keep up with my fingers on the keyboard.
So what’s the lesson here?
If your method isn’t working, change it. If silence leaves your page blank, try adding background noise. If distraction steals your focus, eliminate it. Don’t force yourself into someone else’s routine. Find your own rhythm.
The only wrong way to write is the one that doesn’t help you finish.
Coming Next: Characters and Point of View
In the next article, we’ll explore how to develop characters and choose the right point of view for your story.
Until then—keep writing, keep experimenting, and remember: no method is universal, but every writer finds their way.