by Joshua Peacock

Created on: September 22, 2009   Last Updated: September 24, 2009

Writing a book is not easy. And, against common belief, there are a lot of things you need to know before writing a book in order to get it published - or even for people (outside of your family) to like it. It can be discouraging at times while you are trying to learn these things, but I promise it will be worthwhile if you stick it out long enough to come out on top. The fact that you are learning how to write a book instead of jut diving into it means that you are one step ahead of everyone else. Now, here are some things you need to know before writing a book.

1.) As we've already established, writing a novel or non-fiction book is not an easy task. In fact, for some, it can be downright scary. Just typing it out the rough draft, without anything else in mind, is a considerable undertaking in itself. But don't be discouraged: you can do it!

2.) Its extremely hard to break into the publishing industry. Before you even start writing the first sentence, you need to understand that you cannot assume that you are the next J.R.R. Tolkien or J.K. Rowling. You need to have reasonable goals and expectations about what to expect from your work. Getting published may not even be a part of that.

3.) The chances of you getting a deal with a big name publisher like Random House and Penguin are very slim. These houses only take chances with stuff they absolutely know will sell and that often means they are looking for authors that are already published. You need to be humble and think small at first; build yourself up to a big deal.

4.) Your chances of making hundreds of thousands of dollars when your book is published are very low. You will get royalties on each book sold; however, if you got an upfront payment, you will not receive any of this until your upfront is paid for.

5.) You need to have decent English grammar and language skills. How can a writer write if he or she doesn't understand how to wield their own language? You won't get anywhere without the basic skills.

6.) You need to plan out your book. Merely having an insane idea isn't enough. You really have to plan it out step by step and work things to a point. Otherwise, the chances of you finishing your novel are very low. Not to mention the fact that your story will be very loose and full of flaws.

7.) You need to learn how to write prose. Some people have a natural talent for this, but most need to learn that there is a difference. Pay close attention to how your favorite author writes things when your reading his or her work. Read articles and books. There is a plethora of free information out there on the net; you just have to know which websites and blogs to look on.

8.) Make time. You not only need to predetermine a set aside time to write, you need make sure that you have the time to spare in order to do this. If you have higher priorities that demand much or all of your time, wait until you have a break. But if possible, make time as often as you can.

Learn more about this author, Joshua Peacock.
Click here to send this author comments or questions.