How to Write a Non-Fiction Book, version ii, Part 3

One big difference between fiction and non-fiction writing at the proposal stage is that unless you are very well established, you will need to write your novel before pitching. But with non-fiction theoretically you can pitch an idea and if you have enough of a track-record or reputation in the field then the deal will be done on that. But for the rest of us you'll probably need to write a chapter or  two so that your potential publisher can see that (1) you can write well enough (2) you can produce to deadlines (3) the idea is more than 'a chapter'. That latter point is critical. Increasingly the world of bloggers is generating books: good news in that blogging get you developing the writing skills. Bad news in that many blog ideas are only a paragraph or two of real material. Before getting too excited, test that you produce at least 60K words on the subject; your first book will set your reputation. Make it a great one.

And what about generating the words? In our previous discussions we’ve mentioned the importance of having passion for your topic. The following ideas are based on that premise i.e. that you want to write and that you know your topic. You believe you can add value. So what’s the problem? Busy lives that block us. Here are some ideas for getting the words appearing:

Draw up a timetable and make it visible. Decide when and where you will write and turn up. Even if you feel low, distracted and have got a cold (or all three) turn up and write. Out of quantity you can get quality.
Just write. Get the fingers to the keyboard or pencil to paper and write. Even if you are writing: this is rubbish , I don’t know I ever thought I could produce anything useful on garden design…., you must break the barrier of perfection. Of staring at the paper/screen and waiting for the perfect sentence.
Read about writers for inspiration: start with Stephen King’s excellent biography.
Just write.
Set targets. 1000 words before the next coffee break. Proof two pages before the next cigarette.
Just write.
Write a lot, write regularly. You love it, so why have the weekend ‘off’?
Just write.
Quit themelodrama. You are not blocked: you are simply not writing.
Just write.
Write without expectation of being judged or wanting to appear smart. Many critics have written little else apart from their criticisms.
Just write.
Coming soon: on structuring, marketing and selling