How Can You Become An Author

Do you want to be an Author?

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That’s great! If you’ve ever searched in Google how can you become an author, or how can I become an author, this article is for you.

The time has come, and you have decided that you’re ready to become an author. Now comes the question: what do I need to do? We will talk about what a writing path looks like, and some clear steps you can take to see your name in print. Let’s dive in.

Becoming an Author

There’s a plethora of publishing avenues you can choose from. One example is Self-publishing. This type will give you more creative control and your royalties will be more substantial. One publisher is Amazon KDP, which stands for Kindle Direct Publishing. It’s a free service where all you do is upload your manuscript through their platform. However, they will take a portion of your book’s earnings to cover production costs. Nevertheless, you’ll end up with a much larger royalty over traditional publishing methods.

Your manuscript must be edited before deciding to go with either traditional or self-publishing. Another source you can use is Barnes and Noble. Here you have several options for your book, you can publish an eBook, paperback, or hardcover. Much like Amazon, you upload your files and sell your books. This does give you more accessibility and exposure as well.

Easiest Way to Self-Publish a Book

Amazon KDP has to be the easiest way to self-publish a book. You simply set up a KDP account, which is free. Next, you’ll create an Amazon sales page for your new book by providing a description, choosing your keywords, and categories. Then You’ll upload the manuscript, and book cover, and determine your pricing. That’s it.

Amazon is a huge vehicle, so you will have a lot of exposure on their platform. Another way to publish is traditional publishing. However, that is a bit more complex, due to having to get an agent who will help your book get picked up by a publishing house. Also, your royalties will be smaller since there are more people you need to pay.

How to Become a Great Author

To write a great book, you must practice and read more. These two steps will be critical to your success as an author. Here are some books to help you on your writing path.

1. The Book You Were Born To Write. This book gives an account of turning your idea into a finished book as soon as possible.
2. How To Write Your First Book. This book helps you avoid procrastination, and provides practical advice for researching, writing, and marketing your book. It will also help you answer some of the most important questions you need answered.

To see your ideas come to fruition you’ll need to be organized. Consider using a planner to stay organized. In a previous article we’ve touched on how to use logbooks and planners to stay organized. We have several planners to choose from here.

Reading and Writing go Hand in Hand

Better readers become better writers. Here are some ways that reading helps you write better.

1. Reading helps you develop critical thinking skills. Find out who the good authors are, and find books that inspire you.
2. Reading exposes you to other writing styles. Since it opens you up to different writing styles, you can pay attention and take notes on the mechanics and stylistic choices of other authors. This could eventually help you find your own voice and style.
3. Reading inspires new ideas. When you read daily, you expose yourself to new ideas and recharge your creative juices.

Keep in mind that reading and writing go hand in hand. It’s also a cheat sheet. So, you’re able to see what works and what doesn’t work. Then simply make sure your writing never makes the same mistakes. 

Happy writing,

Eager Books