Are you aware that how-to books are among the easiest books to write Yes, thats right, they really are!
After all, how hard can it be to write about something you already know really well, something that you are passionate about Heck, you may not even need to do any research! What other kind of author | | has that luxury
As I say on my ebook on the subject, I am a firm believer that 99% of people who have specific knowledge of ANY subject, coupled with a passion to share that knowledge with others, are natural how-to authors.
In fact, as I state in the Introduction to my book
If you can organize your thoughts enough to explain something to someone, and then write that down in simple step-by-step terms, you too can be a how-to author.
Thats right. How-to books can be written by anyone who is capable of writing down what they are speaking as they explain to someone all about something that is near and dear to their heart.
It really is that simple. And the beauty of writing how-to books is that you already have the knowledge inside of you!
Most how-to books are written by experts in a particular subject. The cool part about this is that each and every one of us is an expert in some, or many areas! And that includes you!
YES, YOU ARE An Expert
Really, you are! You possess a unique combination of knowledge and valuable life experience that no one else on this planet possesses. In fact, you are the only one truly qualified to write about your knowledge and experience from your own unique perspective.
And that last phrase from your own unique perspective is a very important one. Its important because how-to books are all about people sharing their individual unique take on something. And it really doesnt matter what that something is.
Think about it. What are your big interests and/or activities in life Whats your favorite hobby, or your preferred sport or leisure activity. What do you excel in at the office What books and magazines do you seek out What subjects are guaranteed to grab your attention in any situation, or when depicted in the media What are you good at - at work and/or at play On what subjects do friends, family members, and co-workers constantly seek your advice and/or expertise Do you have valuable life experience to bring to the table
Now that youve thought about it, I bet youre beginning to realize that you are indeed an expert on numerous subjects arent you
Seriously, whether youre an avid gardener, a fanatical sports fan, an obsessed collector of stuff, a jazz pianist, a weekend carpenter, or a card maker; it doesnt matter what your subject. YOU ARE AN EXPERT at those things that you love and are good at doing.
VLE Does Count!
Whatever you do, make sure you dont discount your own personal valuable life experience. In fact, VLE is the basis for almost All self-help books. A |
| | carpenter, or a card maker; it doesnt matter what your subject. YOU ARE AN EXPERT at those things that you love and are good at doing.
VLE Does Count!
Whatever you do, make sure you dont discount your own personal valuable life experience. In fact, VLE is the basis for almost All self-help books. After all, what are self-help books except how-to books about how to live life. And in these days of Oprah, Dr. Phil, Chicken Soup Books, and Reality TV, I dont have to tell you how marketable VLE is!
In fact, it was Oprah who said you can Turn your wounds into words.
DON'T Underestimate Yourself
Remember, YOU DO NOT have to be the worlds foremost authority on your particular subject(s). As long as you have a keen interest in your topic and have acquired an above average knowledge of it, you are in a position to write about it from your own unique perspective.
Believe me, there are thousands of people out there ready and waiting to hear from people just like you who offer new knowledge and fresh perspectives on your shared special area of interest.
All you need to be able to do is write down what would naturally come out of your mouth if you were explaining your favorite subject to a friend, colleague, or family member.
BOTTOM LINE
Dont sell yourself short. Five years ago I didnt even know what a how-to book was. Now Ive written 12 of them. Really!
Im willing to bet that you too have more how-to books in you than you ever imagined.
Copyright © Shaun R. Fawcett
About The Author
Shaun Fawcett is the author of numerous how-to books on everyday practical writing. He also writes about how to create and publish books and ebooks. His latest book How To Write A Book (or eBook) About Your Favorite Hobby, Interest or Activity" can be found at: http://HowToWriteHowTo.com
This article was posted on August 27, 2006 |
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