How to Write a Book Template

There are numerous strategies to follow when writing a book. Some people can sit down at their computers and simply start writing. Others need a guide or a template to assist them in hashing out ideas and concepts. A template is a rough outline that includes an organized list of the ideas and thoughts you want to cover in your book. Once the template is on paper, you can begin the writing process, referring to the template as you proceed to help you achieve your goals and keep from going off on a tangent.

Instructions

1

Open an empty notebook or a blank document on your computer and write out the theme of the book by asking yourself, What is this book about? or, essentially, Why are you writing this book? Only answer this in two to five sentences without complicating the response. This will enable you to define the synopsis of the book and what your objectives are in writing it.

2

Write out the basic ideas of your book. Include key points of action, such as location, list of characters, descriptions of characters and the plot of the book. The plot can be two or three sentences, including when you think certain points of action or main events will occur throughout the story.

3

Write out a rough list of the chapters, including the names of the chapter titles. Once you have crafted the list, write 10 points under each chapter header describing what action will occur in each chapter. The number of points can vary among chapters, but it is important to define what points will be covered in each chapter so that you can see how they will lead to the end of your story.

4

Once the chapters are sketched out, break them down even further by writing subchapters. For example, for Chapter One, under each of your 10 points, write subchapters with points A, B, C, etc. In these subchapters, include specific points about your characters, such as their personalities, motivations and events that will occur.

5

Read over your template, adjusting points if necessary, and start writing your book 10 pages at a time. Refer to your template throughout the writing process, and modify it as needed.