The Checklist.
Writing a book that reflects your expertise and vision.
dettoripublishing.com.au
[email protected]
How to start your book plan.
Three Benefits:
Clarify your book’s vision
Streamline your
writing process
Strategise for success
A word after a word after a
word after a word is power.
— Margaret Atwood
The Checklist: How to Start Your Book Plan. 1
Welcome to your
book planning journey
First off, congratulations on taking this step.
As we all know the landscape of business is evolving, and it’s natural
to question how to stay ahead and remain relevant. You’re not alone in
these thoughts, and that’s precisely why you’re in the right place.
Let me take you on a journey—one that goes beyond writing your book. It’s
a journey that encompasses your expertise, your vision, and your legacy.
You see, I’ve been in your shoes. Before I wrote my first book, “The
Entrepreneurs’ Guide to Self-Publishing,” I grappled with self-doubt,
felt overwhelmed, and second-guessed every step. I understand
the whirlwind of emotions that can accompany such a significant
undertaking. But I can tell you this: it doesn’t have to be that way.
Writing a book is a powerful tool—one that not only reinforces your
expertise but also offers enduring value to your audience. It’s a
testament to your journey, your knowledge, and your unwavering
commitment to your field.
In a world where AI and increasing competition constantly redefine the
rules of the game, authenticity and depth of expertise are your secret
weapons. No algorithm can replicate your unique insights, experiences,
and voice. Your well-crafted book, sharing your story and your “why,”
will not only draw your target audience closer but also position you as a
thought leader in your industry.
So, as you delve into this checklist, remember: this is about more
than just writing a book. It’s about crafting a legacy, forging deeper
connections, and securing your place at the forefront of your industry.
Together, let’s embark on this thrilling journey – a journey to craft a
narrative that not only resonates but also stands the test of time.
Enjoy
Ann
Keen to know more about the self-publishing landscape?
I’ve created an in-depth guide to get you started.
The Checklist: How to Start Your Book Plan. 2
Step 1
Identify your core message
Your core message is the foundation of your book. Reflect on the
most important lessons, experiences, or insights from your journey
that you believe will resonate with readers. By consolidating these ideas,
you’ll find the unique value you bring to the table. Ask yourself: What
transformation do I want to bring about in my readers? This central
message will guide your writing, ensuring consistency and clarity
throughout your book.
“People don’t buy what you do; they buy why you do it.
And what you do simply proves what you believe.”
— Simon Sinek
The Checklist: How to Start Your Book Plan. 3
Step 2
Define your target audience
Your book will have the most impact when it’s tailored to a specific
group of readers. This isn’t just about age or gender; consider their
aspirations, challenges, and what they seek in a book. Remember,
being specific is key. When you write with a clear reader in mind, your
message becomes more potent. Think about how your experiences as
an entrepreneur can cater to their needs and questions.
“There is only one winning strategy. It is to
carefully define the target market and direct a
superior offering to that target market.”
— Philip Kotler
The Checklist: How to Start Your Book Plan. 4
Step 3
Set clear goals for your book
Every book has a purpose, be it sharing knowledge, building a personal
brand, or generating business leads. Define what success looks like for
your book. Goals keep you on track. They help in determining content,
marketing strategy, and how your book integrates into your larger
business plan. By identifying your goals upfront, you set clear metrics for
success.
What are your goals for your book launch, twelve months time and five
years from now. Dream big and have fun.
The Checklist: How to Start Your Book Plan. 5
Step 4
Brainstorm content ideas
Let your ideas flow without restriction. Start jotting notes here but keep
going, grab a a notebook or digital tool and jot down stories, lessons,
or anecdotes relevant to your core message. Organising these ideas
early will simplify the writing process. Consider how these individual
elements fit together, ensuring they align with your overall theme and
purpose.
The Checklist: How to Start Your Book Plan. 6
Step 5
Outline your chapters
Structure gives direction to your writing. Begin by drafting broad
chapter titles, capturing the main ideas or phases of your narrative.
Each chapter should provide value. Break them into sub-sections or key
points, ensuring that readers can follow a logical progression throughout
your book.
To get you started look at books in a similar genre and here is the
contents list to the first section of my book The Entrepreneurs’ Guide
to Self-Publishing.
Section one: Writing – How to develop and structure
your book writing journey
Chapter 1: Finding your ‘why’
Chapter 2: Write like a pro
Chapter 3: Common author mistakes
Chapter 4: Tools to develop a framework that works
Chapter 5: Develop a book structure
Chapter 6: What makes a great book pitch?
Chapter 7: How to speak your first draft
The Checklist: How to Start Your Book Plan. 77
Step 6
Research competing titles: You’re not writing in a vacuum
Understand the landscape by exploring books in your niche. This helps
in identifying gaps and opportunities. While your experiences are
unique, seeing what’s been written can inspire you to approach topics
differently or delve into overlooked areas. This research also ensures
your book stands out in the market.
And an important thing to remember, if there are numerous books
on your topic of expertise don’t be disheartened it means there is an
appetite for your knowledge.
The Checklist: How to Start Your Book Plan. 8
Step 7.
Create a writing schedule: Consistency is key
Decide on a realistic timeframe for writing your book, then break it down
into manageable chunks, setting deadlines for each chapter. Everyone
has a different schedule and you may prefer to set daily or weekly goals,
when I’m writing I aim for 1000 words five days a week.
Carve out dedicated writing times during the week. This ritual not only
builds discipline but also allows your thoughts to flow more coherently
as you immerse yourself regularly in your book’s world. One of the most
important things when setting this time aside is to tell people you are
writing and not to be disturbed, this has to be non-negotiable.
Sunday
Monday
Tuesday
Wednesday
Thursday
Friday
Saturday
The Checklist: How to Start Your Book Plan. 9
Step 8.
Visualise your book’s branding
Your book is an extension of your brand. Consider design elements like
the cover, typography, and colour schemes that mirror your business’s
branding. An appealing design not only draws readers in but also ensures
that your book is perceived as professional and credible, reinforcing your
authority in the subject matter.
The Checklist: How to Start Your Book Plan. 1010
Step 9.
Stay committed and motivated
Every writer faces moments of doubt. When writer’s block strikes or
motivation wanes, remember why you embarked on this journey.
Celebrate small milestones, whether it’s completing a chapter or staying
on track with your writing commitment. Remember your first draft is not
the final manuscript and working with a team of editors and designers
will ensure you see your project through to completion.
The Checklist: How to Start Your Book Plan. 11
Bonus
Think ahead!
While you’re engrossed in writing, also spare some thoughts for postwriting phases. How will you market your book? How does it fit into
your broader business strategy? By considering marketing and launch
strategies early, you can seamlessly transition from writing to promotion,
ensuring your book gets the attention it deserves.
The Checklist: How to Start Your Book Plan. 12
Before you go …
A quick overview of the steps
• Step 1. Identify your core message
• Step 2. Define your target audience
• Step 3. Set clear goals for your book
• Step 4. Brainstorm content ideas
• Step 5. Outline your chapters
• Step 6. Research competing titles
• Step 7. Create a writing schedule
• Step 8. Visualise your book’s branding
• Step 9. Stay committed and motivated
Always be thinking ahead and if you would like to learn more I outline all
of these topics and more in my book The Entrepreneurs’ Guide to SelfPublishing.
The Checklist: How to Start Your Book Plan. 13
About Independent Ink
I’m Ann, and Independent Ink is the self-publishing arm of
Dettori Publishing.
My mission is simple: I want to empower you to bring your unique story
to life in the form of a beautiful, professional book that you’ll be proud
to call your own.
I know the challenges that come with being a small business owner and
an aspiring author. I’ve walked that path myself, and I understand the
journey intimately. I believe that each one of us has a remarkable story
to share, and I’m here to ensure that you have the skills and knowledge
to create and publish a high-quality book that stands out.
If the thought of writing and publishing your book feels overwhelming
or stressful, I’m here to help. I would love to learn about your ideas, your
goals, and how I can support you on this exciting journey.
You can connect with me
For more information on self-publishing, contact:
E [email protected]
FB https://www.facebook.com/dettoripublishing
LI https://www.linkedin.com/in/anndettori/