You'll need to learn how to write a book proposal to get your nonfiction book published. There are some differences between nonfiction book proposals and a fiction book proposal. With fiction, you'll generally need to finish the book and submit either the entire manuscript or the first several chapters. A non-fiction book proposal usually includes an outline of the book and a few sample chapters.
Draft a TOC (Table of Contents)
The first thing you'll want to do is draft a table of contents so you know exactly what you will include in the book. This is where you transform those ideas into a structured piece of work another person could understand at a glance.
Outline All the Chapters
Next you'll outline those chapters in detail. Aim for one to two pages for each chapter outline, and include references to any research you've done or experience you've had that supports the chapter. If you realize you have holes in the chapters that need to be filled, do the needed research to fill those holes now.
Write Your Sample Chapters
You can either write the first three chapters of the book or choose chapters that you feel will best showcase your writing skills and expertise. Act as if this is the real book, as if these three chapters are the final product the reader (and your agent and the publisher) will see when he or she opens your book. Revise these three chapters until it is the best you can do. If needed, hire an editor or book doctor to proofread or critique these chapters.
Summarize the Book
Write a detailed synopsis of the entire book. Most synopses of non-fiction books end up being about 10 to 15 pages long. Make sure you include all important details.
Design an Author Profile Page
In this page you will need to describe who you are, why you are uniquely qualified to write this book and why your target audience will buy a book you have written. This is the place to list your publishing credits, television or radio appearances, speaking engagements, Internet presence and fan base. You should have a Web site or blog, and you should include the URL in this profile. If you have any numbers to share, such as speaking in front of 5,000 people at a conference or having 50,000 visitors to your Web site each month, be sure to mention them. The author profile page should be one page long.
Create a Mission Statement
A one-page mission statement should succinctly describe what your book's purpose is and why your target audience will buy the book. This is where you will describe your target audience and how you know there is a market for your book. This is also where you should detail your marketing plans for the book. You should have concrete contacts and plans for promoting the book once it is in print.
Write Your Query Letter
Your query letter is the cover letter you will send with your book proposal when you approach literary agents for representation. Make your query brief, professional and interesting. Your letter should be no more than one page and must include the following
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Learn how to publish a book, whether you're working with an agent or trying to get it printed yourself. |
Learn the keys to writing chapters on speculation so that they'll help to sell your book proposal. |
