“I have a great idea for a book. How do I get started?” I hear this question often when aspiring book writers discover that I have written and published several books. In fact, I often get this question from new visitors to the website. Whatever type of book you are writing (fiction, memoir, nonfiction, romance, science fiction, etc.), do this: Write the back cover copy first.

This is simple, yet sage, advice given to me when my first book was in its infancy. Here’s how writing the back cover copy first can help:

Focus

Being forced to synopsize “what’s inside” will help you focus on what’s important from start to finish. You will be able to make decisions on what fits and what doesn’t by rereading the copy of your back cover.

Format

If  you’re writing fiction, will you write chronologically? In flashbacks? First person or third? Your back cover copy will set the tone for the format of your book. If it’s an informational or how-to book, writing the back cover content first will help you better arrange your chapters and step-by-step details.

Finish

Many of us have far too much research and information to fit inside a single book. Yes, all of it is interesting but is it necessary? Your back cover copy will tell you when to stop!

New writers think of the text on the back cover as an afterthought—something to be done when the book is finished. Experienced writers recognize the value of those condensed words and descriptions. From beginning to end, your book manuscript needs to take the reader somewhere. Your back cover copy will tell you where that is.

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