Writing Wisdom Blog

What are some tips for writing a nonfiction book?

When I’m asked, “What are some tips for writing a nonfiction book?” I narrow it down to the top three foundational pieces, but there are many, many tips based on your: who, what, where, and why? The top three tips, in my opinion:

  1. Determine and fine-tune the book’s theme.
  2. Create a plan that includes content considerations and writing schedules.
  3. And, the often… Read More

How long will it take to write my book?

“How long will it take to write my book?” My short answer is: “It takes as long as it takes based on how often you sit down to write and how long you spend writing when you do.” I know that is not the answer the person asking wants to hear as… Read More

What’s the difference between writing nonfiction and fiction?

What’s the difference between writing nonfiction and fiction? We all know nonfiction is true and fiction is imaginary. Most people can readily spout off all sorts of other ways nonfiction and fiction writing are different, but how are they the same? If the writer has the ultimate goal of writing a sellable book, there are lessons to be learned… Read More

How can I learn to enjoy writing?

It surprises me that some people really don’t like to write, because I love to write and it comes easily to me. But I’ve also noticed some people don’t like working with numbers, others don’t like building things, and some shouldn’t sing in public. I have a real passion for writing, but… Read More

Assessing what to do differently in 2021 to grow business

As 2020 winds down and 2021 is about to begin, it’s normal to assess what to do differently in the new year. This post is focused on a tool to grow your business in 2021: Your Book. Business owners should be assessing: Did I do the amount of business I wanted to do this year? Rarely is the answer… Read More

Any ideas on how to strengthen writing skills?

I’m asked for ideas on how to strengthen writing skills, and if that’s even possible. I do believe it’s possible to become a better writer. Like any other skill, writing requires practice, practice, and more practice. But developing into a better writer also means spending more time as an active reader and… Read More

How do I overcome writer’s block?

How do I overcome writer’s block? Writers block, regardless of the reason, is when the writer can’t produce new words on the page or can’t focus to edit written work. I hear writer’s block explained with root causes ranging from lack of focus to lack of inspiration or from lack of skill to lack of confidence.

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What’s the difference between an editor and a beta reader?

Following my last few posts on editing, I’ve gotten this question: What's the difference between an editor and a beta reader?

Beta readers are not professional editors and professional editors are not beta readers. Before someone finds offense, let me clarify this is most often the case and there are exceptions to… Read More

What questions to ask an editor before hiring?

What questions to ask an editor before hiring? How to find a good editor is a matter of the writer asking questions related to experience, process, work ethic, costs, schedule, and sometimes it really can come down to personalities. Knowledge is gained by asking how long the editor has worked as an editor. If… Read More

Will an editor change my story too much?

Will an editor change my story too much? I hear writers say, “I won’t hire an editor because they’ll change my story.” Sometimes the complaint is about changing plot line or changing word use so it no longer sounds like the author’s. As a writer, I understand this concern. As an editor I respond with, "You might have hired… Read More