3 Book Writing Errors Common Among Experienced Authors
Posted by
Ann Yager on Tue, Sep 06, 2011 @ 03:14 PM
Anyone can pick up a pen and write a sentence. That does not make them an author. Being an author and writing a book takes courage, conviction and above all talent. Yet, all the talent in the world does not keep authors from making the same mistakes over and over again.
Too often, writers make 3 avoidable errors during the submission process. An author’s book may be a New York Times bestseller, but no one is ever going to know that if the piece does not get past the publisher.
Book Writing Mistake #1 - Overusing "I"
One of the biggest complaints that publishers have for aspiring authors is the use of the word “I.” Even in first person books or self-help books, the word “I” can be overused.
Obviously in a self-help book the word “I” is going to be used, but somehow you must bring the audience into your world and engage them without going overboard with the “I’s.”
Book Writing Mistake #2 - Too Much Information
Often when you begin writing a book, you brainstorm ideas that turn into other ideas and so on. The problem with this is that sometimes you can come up with too many ideas.
A reader’s attention span is only so large. If you introduce too many new thoughts all at once, a reader can lose focus and lose interest. When your reader can’t figure out exactly what is in the book for them, they are likely to put it down and sigh at the thought of picking it up again.
Book Writing Mistake #3 - Proofreading and Editing
Writers are notoriously bad editors. It might have something to do with the left brain and the right brain. Writers are artistic and editing does not seem artistic. Grammar is very cut and dry. Therefore, writers will often put together pieces that on many levels may be genius, but on an editorial level is a nightmare.
Before submitting any piece of work have a trusted friend read it over for at least basic understanding. Then consider hiring a professional to edit your book. Make sure you listen to their advice and give the publisher something easy on the eyes that will make it to the bookstands.
Takeaway
Avoid these 3 common mistakes and make your book publisher-friendly. You'll smooth the publishing process and jump start your book royalties.
Book authors are often surprised to learn that their editors and publishers expect more than just a great book. Publishers often ask authors to create an index or find a book indexer. If you've never created an index before, it can really be time consuming.
The key to success is not only the book writing process itself, but paying attention to the index as well.
Image Credit: qisur