How to Become an Author: A Step-by-Step Guide to Success

After I became an author at 21, my life transformed.

My self-perception shifted, and so did the way others viewed me. I developed clarity, confidence, and competence. Despite my young age, being an author unlocked personal and professional opportunities, including in the business world.

No matter your background or writing experience, becoming an author can be life-changing. This article will provide you with a step-by-step guide on how to become a successful author. By the time you are done reading, you will have a clear game plan to become an author, whether it's for fiction or nonfiction. 

Table of Contents

• What is an Author?
• Why Become an Author?
• How to Become an Author (Part 1): Preparing to Write Your First Book
  
  • Step 1: Create a Positive Author Mindset
  • Step 2: Write Yourself or Collaborate with a Ghostwriter
  • Step 3: Identify Your Audience
  • Step 4: Research Successful Authors
  • Step 5: Learn the Skills to Become a Successful Author
  • Step 6: Understand and Perfect Your Writing Skills
  • Step 7: Explore Different Genres
  • Step 8: Brainstorm Multiple Ideas
  • Step 9: Start with Short Stories or Blog Posts
  • Step 10: Establish a Writing Environment
  • Step 11: Create a Writing Schedule You Can Stick To
• How to Become an Author (Part 2): Writing Your First Book
  • Writing Your Book
  • Publishing Your Book
  • Marketing Your Book
  • Building a Writing Career
• Other Considerations
  • Financial Aspects of Authorship
  • Managing Feedback and Criticism
  • Maintaining Health and Well-Being
• Take the Leap!

What is an Author?

When I say I became an author, I mean I published my first book. There is a subtle but necessary distinction between "author" and "writer."

While a writer engages in the technical act of writing, an author shares ideas with the world. You can be a writer without being an author or an author without being a writer.

For example, Prince Harry is an author, having published his memoir Spare, but he did not write the book. J.R. Moehringer, the journalist who ghost-wrote Spare, is a writer and author, having written countless articles and a personal memoir.

Understanding this distinction is crucial in your journey to become an author.

The Distinction Between Author and Writer

An author is someone who originates and shares ideas, while a writer practices the craft of writing.

In other words, writers are wordsmiths who bring stories, concepts, and ideas to life. They do so through books, articles, short stories, or any other written content.

On the other hand, authors are recognized for their contributions to literature and ideas, regardless of whether they write themselves. This distinction is necessary for anyone looking to start writing and develop their writing skills, whether they aim to self-publish or pursue traditional publishing.

Philosophical Perspectives on Authorship

Michel Foucault, a notable French philosopher, offers an interesting view on authorship in his essay "What is an Author?". He argues that authors are more than just people who write; they play a role in organizing the structure and meaning of texts.

Foucault suggests that the concept of an author is a cultural construct that affects how we interpret and value texts. This idea influences our understanding and engagement with written works.

Different Paths to Becoming an Author

There are various paths to becoming an author, each suited to different skills, interests, and circumstances. Here are a few key routes:

1. Traditional Author: This path involves writing a manuscript and seeking publication through traditional publishers. It typically includes finding a literary agent, submitting a query letter, and navigating the competitive publishing industry.
   
   Traditional publishing requires thorough research and due diligence to make informed decisions. A traditional publishing deal can provide significant advantages, such as broad distribution, professional editing, and established marketing support.

2. Self-Published Author: Self-publishing gives authors complete control over the production and distribution of their books. This route involves a significant investment in editing, cover design, marketing, and distribution. However, it offers higher royalties and greater creative freedom.
   
   Self-published authors often enhance their chances of success by investing in professional services and strategically advertising their self-published books on platforms like Amazon, Goodreads, and social media. Self-publishing makes it possible to publish on your terms, whether you’re writing fiction, nonfiction, or short stories.

3. Collaborative Author: Some individuals become authors by working with ghostwriters or co-authors. This method is perfect for individuals with great ideas or stories who don't have the time or writing expertise to author a book themselves.
   
   Collaborative writing can result in high-quality works that benefit from the combined skills of the author and the writer. This method can also involve creative writing classes and writing groups to refine the content.

Why Become an Author?

Becoming an author will transform your life by enhancing your personal and professional credibility, giving you a platform to share your expertise, and opening new opportunities.

Whether you seek recognition, want to share your knowledge, or aim to inspire others, becoming an author is a powerful way to achieve these goals.

Here are several reasons you may want to become an author:

• Establish yourself as an authority in your field, which will lead to increased respect and opportunities in your profession.

• Offer valuable insights, knowledge, and experiences to a broader audience, significantly contributing to your field.

• Influence and motivate readers through your words, providing guidance, solutions, or entertainment.

• Develop new skills and deepen your understanding of your subject, experiencing a sense of accomplishment.

• Create a foundation for your ideas, attracting followers and opportunities for engagement through various channels.

• Monetize your expertise through book sales, speaking engagements, online courses, and consulting services.

• Preserve your ideas and stories for future generations, becoming part of the cultural and intellectual heritage.

• Expand your network, connecting with other authors, industry experts, and readers, leading to collaborative opportunities.

• Express yourself creatively and receive positive feedback from readers who resonate with your work.

How to Become an Author (Part 1): Preparing to Write Your First Book

Embarking on the journey to become an author is both exciting and daunting.

Before you dive into writing your first book, it's essential to lay a solid foundation that will support your writing career. This initial stage involves more than brainstorming ideas or choosing a genre; it also requires cultivating a positive author mindset, understanding the publishing landscape, honing your writing skills, etc.

Honing your writing skills is essential whether you pursue traditional or self-publishing.

Joining a writing group, practicing creative writing, and starting with short stories can help develop your writing process. Establishing a writing schedule and engaging in the writing community will also support your writing career.

Whether you're writing historical fiction, a romance novel, or a memoir, mastering the writing process is crucial to becoming a successful author.

Step 1: Create a Positive Author Mindset

The first step in creating a positive author mindset is pivotal for your writing journey.

Your mindset affects the quality of your work, your resilience in facing challenges, and the satisfaction you derive from your craft. Learning from successful writers will provide valuable insights and inspiration.

Here's how to do it:

• Recognize the Value of Your Ideas:

  • Embrace the belief that your contributions can inspire, educate, or entertain others meaningfully.

  • Understand that every unique perspective has the potential to make an impact.

• Set Realistic Expectations:

  • Clarify why you want to become an author and what you seek to achieve.

  • Establish achievable goals to keep yourself motivated and focused.

• Conduct a SWOT Analysis:

  • Strengths: Recognize your writing skills, unique ideas, and areas where you excel. These could be your storytelling ability, expertise in a particular genre, or strong research skills.

  • Weaknesses: Acknowledge areas that need improvement, such as grammar, consistency, or pacing. Identifying weaknesses allows you to seek targeted help or resources to improve.

  • Opportunities: Look for external opportunities that can benefit your writing career, like writing contests, networking events, or emerging trends in your genre.

  • Threats: Identify potential obstacles, such as market competition, time constraints, or personal challenges. Understanding these threats helps you develop strategies to mitigate them.

• Celebrate Small Victories:

  • Learn from each experience and use feedback for growth.

  • Celebrate milestones, no matter how small, to maintain a positive outlook and stay motivated.

• Join a Local Writing Group:

  • Engage with a local writing group to build a supportive author community, share resources, find critique partners, and receive feedback on each other's work.

  • Direct interaction with fellow writers offers the opportunity to learn and improve together.

Step 2: Write Yourself or Collaborate with a Ghostwriter

Writing a book on your own provides authenticity and is more affordable, but it may not always be the most efficient or optimal approach.

As such, you need to consider whether you prefer to pen your manuscript or collaborate with a ghostwriter.

To become an author, you can take one of two main routes:

• Writing Yourself: Writing your own books offers a profound sense of accomplishment and a personal connection with the material. This route allows for complete creative control and ensures your unique voice shines through.

• Collaborating with a Ghostwriter: Working with a ghostwriter who writes for you brings structure, pace, and polish to your ideas. A ghostwriter can help translate your vision into a well-crafted manuscript, ensuring your book resonates with your audience and meets professional standards.

While working with a ghostwriter has clear benefits, it also has disadvantages and is not for everyone.

Pros and Cons of a Ghostwriter:

• Pros:

  • Expertise: Ghostwriters have extensive experience and professional writing skills, ensuring a high-quality manuscript.

  • Polish: They provide a well-structured and polished book that meets industry standards.

  • Genre Experience: Ghostwriters often have experience in various genres, making it easier to write a book that aligns with your specific needs.

  • Efficiency: Ghostwriters significantly speed up the writing process, allowing you to publish your book faster.

• Cons:

  • Expense: Hiring a ghostwriter can be expensive, especially if you want a highly experienced professional.

  • Budget Constraints: The cost may be prohibitive for new authors or those with limited budgets.

  • Hidden Fees: Be aware of potential additional costs for revisions or extra services.

  • Loss of Authenticity: There is a risk that the final product may not fully capture your unique voice and personality.

  • Creative Input: Limited involvement in the writing process might result in a book that feels less personal.

To make a decision, reflect on your strengths, goals, and the message you wish to convey. Both paths lead to authorship but differ in journey and execution.

Step 3: Identify Your Audience

Another critical element to becoming a successful author is understanding your readers.

Your audience shapes your content, informs your marketing strategy, and ensures your book resonates with the right people.

Start by visualizing who your ideal reader is. Ask yourself:

• Demographics: What is their age, gender, education level, and occupation?

• Interests and Hobbies: What do they enjoy doing in their free time? What other books do they read?

• Challenges and Pain Points: What problems or challenges do they face that your book can help solve?

• Preferred Reading Formats: Do they prefer ebooks, audiobooks, or print books?

By creating a detailed reader profile, you will better understand your audience's preferences and tailor your content accordingly.

Moreover, it helps to understand that different genres attract different audiences. Research books similar to yours and analyze their readership. Look at reviews, join genre-specific forums, and participate in social media groups. Pay special attention to:

Understanding your genre's landscape will help you position your book effectively and meet reader expectations.

Step 4: Research Successful Authors

One of the critical steps in your journey to becoming an author is learning from successful authors.

By studying their strategies, marketing techniques, and audience engagement, you can gain valuable insights and apply them to your own writing career.

The key here is to understand what draws you to certain authors—whether it's their themes or writing style. This understanding will provide valuable insights into your own preferences and potential strengths as a writer.

By studying their strategies and approaches, you'll learn a great deal from established authors. Analyze their marketing techniques, writing styles, and audience engagement. And don't forget that understanding the publishing industry is essential to navigating the market effectively.

Step 5: Learn the Skills to Become a Successful Author

Becoming a successful author requires more than talent; it demands continuous learning and skill development. By investing in your growth and staying adaptable, you can navigate the challenges of the literary world and achieve long-term success.

Here are the most essential skills you need as an author:

• Continuous Development: Invest in learning and honing your writing skills through workshops, courses, and writing practice.

  • Workshops and Courses: Enroll in writing workshops, creative writing classes, and online courses to enhance your skills.

  • Reading: Read extensively across genres to understand different writing styles and techniques.

  • Writing Practice: Regularly write short stories, articles, or blog posts to refine your craft.

  • Feedback: Seek constructive feedback from peers, mentors, and editors to identify areas for improvement.

  • Study Successful Authors: Analyze the works of successful authors to learn their strategies and approaches.

• Networking: Build connections within the writing community by joining local writing groups or online forums.

  • Join Writing Groups: Participate in local or online writing groups to share experiences, resources, and feedback.

  • Attend Conferences: Go to writing conferences, book fairs, and literary festivals to network with other authors, agents, and publishers.

  • Social Media Engagement: Use platforms like Twitter, LinkedIn, and writing forums to connect with fellow writers and industry professionals.

  • Mentorship: Seek mentors who can guide you through the writing and publishing process.

  • Collaborations: Consider co-authoring projects or contributing to anthologies to expand your network and experience.

• Marketing: Develop effective marketing strategies to promote your work and reach a wider audience. Use SEO, social media, and your own author platform to enhance visibility.

  • Author Platform: Build a strong online presence through a professional website, blog, and social media profiles.

  • Branding: Develop a consistent author brand that reflects your style and genre.

  • Email Marketing: Create a mailing list to keep readers informed about new releases, events, and promotions.

  • Book Launch Strategies: Plan and execute effective book launch campaigns, including pre-orders, reviews, and media coverage.

  • Promotions and Ads: Utilize online advertising platforms like Amazon Ads, Google AdWords, and social media ads to promote your book.

Step 6: Understand and Perfect Your Writing Skills

Writing proficiency is crucial.

You should always be investing in learning the writing craft and improving your writing skills.

This can involve creative writing classes, workshops, and reading extensively in your chosen genre. While you don't always have to spend money on education, you should always be learning. You can learn from both paid and free resources — from various sources.

Step 7: Explore Different Genres

You cannot master the writing craft unless you understand it holistically.

To gain a strong grasp of writing, experiment with various styles and genres and find your niche. Writing historical fiction, for example, requires thorough research and a deep knowledge of the period to create a compelling story. Nonfiction, on the other hand, is all about facts and argumentation.

Remember, you don't need to stick to every single genre convention. You can – and should – create your own style. The niche you create for yourself can lie at the intersection of two genres.

Step 8: Brainstorm Multiple Ideas

You probably won't find your million-dollar idea the first time around.

To hone your craft, brainstorm and refine concepts until you find the best idea for your book. This process ensures you have a strong foundation before you start writing.

Moreover, consider what themes and messages you want to explore and how they will resonate with your audience. It takes some trial and error to figure out what works, what you like, and what your audience wants to read.

Step 9: Start with Short Stories or Blog Posts

Writing can be intimidating.

If you're struggling to start, starting with smaller projects can help you build confidence. It can also help you develop your voice and style in a manageable format.

Short stories and blog posts serve as a testing ground for ideas and receive feedback from readers. Do not neglect how powerful they can be on your journey to becoming an author.

I personally started my writing career by writing short stories, which helped me tremendously!

Step 10: Establish a Writing Environment

Your environment will make or break your practice.

To keep your writing practice thriving, set up a specific area in your home or office where you can write without interruptions. This will help create a productive atmosphere and signal to your brain that it’s time to focus.

Also, do your best to eliminate or reduce distractions like noise, social media, or unnecessary notifications. Use tools like noise-canceling headphones or productivity apps to help maintain focus.

Finally, ensure you have all the necessary tools at your disposal, including a comfortable chair, a reliable computer, and any writing software or notebooks you prefer.

Step 11: Create a Writing Schedule You Can Stick To

Consistency is key.

It is better to write less and more often than a lot and infrequently. Every time I set grandiose writing goals, I fall short of my expectations and lose momentum. Instead, I aim to write less but to do so every day.

As an author in the making, develop a sustainable routine that fits your lifestyle and helps you stay on track with your writing goals.

Whether it's daily, weekly, or monthly, having a set schedule ensures you make regular progress on your book.

How to Become an Author (Part 2): Writing Your First Book

Now that you understand the preliminary steps to becoming an author, let's explore the process of writing and publishing your first book.

Writing Your Book

The writing phase is often the longest one, but it is also the one where the most growth happens.

Research and Plan Your Book

First, develop a clear roadmap for your writing journey. By investing time in research and planning, you ensure that your book is well-structured, informative, and engaging.

Here's how:

• Develop a Book Outline: Organize your ideas to create a clear structure.

• Create a Writing Timeline: Establish deadlines to stay on track.

• Research Your Topic: Build a rich, detailed world and well-rounded characters (fiction) or structured argument (nonfiction)

Write Your First Draft

This is where your ideas take shape and your story begins to come to life.

When writing your first draft, you aim to get your thoughts down on paper, laying the groundwork for subsequent revisions and refinements.

Here's how:

• Track Your Word Count: Stay motivated by setting and reaching word count goals.

• Revise Your Drafts: Continuously improve your writing through multiple revisions.

• Test Different Writing Methods: Experiment with different writing techniques, such as free-writing or writing sprints, to find what works best for you.

• Chapter Summaries: Write brief summaries for each chapter to ensure they align with your overall plot and goals. This helps in maintaining focus and continuity.

Editing and Revising

This stage involves refining your writing and enhancing clarity as well as coherence.

It's a time to address structural issues, improve your language, and correct grammatical errors.

By dedicating ample time and effort to editing and revising, you can ensure your book is the best it can be before it reaches your audience.

• Revise and Edit Your Manuscript: Seek feedback from beta readers to refine your work. Platforms like Scribophile, Goodreads, and Wattpad have communities where writers exchange beta reading services.

• Hire a Professional Editor: Ensure your manuscript is polished and professional.

• Use Editing Tools: Enhance sentence structure and grammar with online tools like Grammarly.

Publishing Your Book

Publishing your book is the culmination of your hard work and creativity.

Successfully navigating the publishing process ensures that your book reaches your target audience and achieves the impact envisioned.

There are two main ways to get your work published:

Traditional Publishing Process

1. Submit Your Manuscript: Send your work to traditional publishers. A literary agent can assist with submitting a query letter and navigating the process.

2. Work with a Publisher: Collaborate to prepare your book for publication.

3. Earn Royalties: Receive income through traditional publishing channels.

Self-Publishing Process

1. Hire a Professional Editor: Ensure your book is polished and free of errors by working with a professional editor.

2. Format Your Book: Prepare your manuscript for various online platforms.

3. ISBN and Copyright: Obtain an ISBN and register your copyright to protect your work.

4. Publish on Online Platforms: Use services like Amazon Kindle Direct Publishing to reach readers. Modern self-publishing options allow for professional-looking books at a lower cost.

5. Earn (Higher) Royalties: Benefit from a larger share of profits through self-publishing.

Do you need a literary agent?

A literary agent is a professional who assists writers in navigating the complex world of traditional book publishing.

Acting as a bridge between the author and publishers, literary agents work with both novice and experienced writers to get their manuscripts published. They leverage their industry connections to match manuscripts with suitable publishers, enhancing the chances of publication.

Authors who seek to get traditionally published rely on literary agents for their:

• Industry Expertise: Agents have deep knowledge of the publishing industry and what different publishers are looking for.

• Contract Negotiation Skills: They secure favorable terms for authors.

• Submission Guidance: Agents help authors prepare and submit their manuscripts to publishers, increasing the chances of acceptance.

Steps to Finding a Literary Agent

1. Write a Great Book: Ensure your book has a market by researching similar books.

2. Research Agents: Find agents who represent your genre and have a good track record.

3. Refine Your List: Narrow down your list to agents who are the best fit.

4. Write Personalized Query Letters: Craft tailored query letters for each agent.

5. Follow Up: Politely follow up if you don’t receive a response after a reasonable time.

By following these steps and understanding the role of a literary agent, you can increase your chances of finding the right agent to represent your work and achieve your publishing goals.

Marketing Your Book

Finally, marketing your book is essential for reaching a broad audience and achieving commercial success. Effective marketing helps you connect with your target audience, generate buzz, and ultimately drive book sales.

Here's how to market your book:

Establish an Online Presence

• Build a Website or Blog: Create a central hub to promote your book.

• Engage on Social Media: Connect with your target audience.

• Use SEO: Improve your online visibility to attract more readers.

Reach Your Target Audience

• Develop a Marketing Strategy: Plan how to effectively reach and engage your audience.

• Run Ads and Promotions: Increase your book's visibility with targeted campaigns.

• Use Marketing Tools: Gain insights into your market and refine your strategy.

Run Ads and Promotions

• Online Advertising: Use platforms like Google Ads, Facebook Ads, and Amazon Advertising to promote your book. Target specific demographics and interests to reach potential readers.

• Discounts and Giveaways: To generate interest and encourage word-of-mouth marketing, offer limited-time discounts or free copies of your book.

• Book Launch Events: Host virtual or in-person book launch events to celebrate your release and engage with your audience. Offer signed copies, Q&A sessions, and exclusive content.

Engage with Your Readers

• Author Q&A: Host regular Q&A sessions on social media or your website to interact with your readers and build a loyal community.

• Reader Surveys: Conduct surveys to gather feedback from your readers. Use this information to improve your future books and marketing strategies.

• Reader Contests: Run contests or challenges to engage your audience and encourage them to share your book with others.

Building a Writing Career

Your first book is out. Congratulations! However, building a sustainable writing career goes beyond publishing a single book. Authors can create a lasting and rewarding career by writing multiple books, exploring different genres, and leveraging various opportunities.

Here's how:

Maintain a Strong Work Ethic

• Consistency: Write regularly to maintain and improve your skills. Treat writing as a job with set hours and deadlines.

• Professionalism: Approach your writing career with professionalism, including meeting deadlines, being open to feedback, and continually striving for excellence.

Diversify Your Income Streams

• Offer Writing Services: Provide writing, editing, or consulting services to clients.

• Publish in Multiple Formats: Release your work as ebooks, print books, and audiobooks.

Other Considerations

While writing and publishing are critical components of your journey as an author, additional factors matter. These include managing finances, protecting intellectual property, and staying updated with industry trends are also crucial.

These elements help maintain a successful and sustainable writing career and ensure your hard work and creativity are effectively leveraged.

Financial Aspects of Authorship

Understanding author earnings is essential.

The average self-published book sells about 250 copies, while traditionally published books typically sell around 500 copies. That said, your earnings will depend significantly on your marketing skills, audience engagement, and budget.

Self-publishing can offer higher royalties but also requires a larger initial investment in services like editing, cover design, and marketing. While traditional publishing provides lower royalties, it includes professional editing, cover design, and marketing support.

If you are self-publishing, effective financial planning and management are vital. Budget for professional services to ensure your book receives the love it deserves.

Managing Feedback and Criticism

Feedback and criticism are unavoidable parts of writing and publishing books.

Ultimately, constructive criticism is a tool for improvement. While not all feedback is worth listening to, analyzing feedback can help identify patterns and areas that need attention. When you receive feedback and criticism, leave your ego at the door and look at feedback objectively to grow.

It is worth reiterating: not all feedback is created equal. While considering the feedback you receive, stay true to your creative vision and only make changes that align with your goals and enhance your work.

Maintaining Health and Well-Being

Health is wealth — and this applies to authors, too.

Maintaining your health and well-being is essential for sustaining a long and productive writing career.

To prioritize your well-being, establish clear boundaries between your writing time and personal life, designate specific hours for writing, and ensure you also allocate time for family, friends, and leisure.

It is also critical to schedule regular breaks during writing sessions to recharge and maintain productivity without feeling burned out. It can be tempting to spend entire nights writing and doing writing sprints (I have done so many times), but it can negatively impact your health.

Take the Leap!

If you have read this article until the end, here are some good news.

There has never been a better time to become an author. Writing resources are more accessible than ever, and it has never been easier to self-publish books.

Take the first step today by setting a writing goal, joining a writing group, or simply putting pen to paper. Your story deserves to be told, and readers are waiting to be inspired, educated, or entertained by your words.

And if you struggle to figure out where to start, book a free consultation to talk strategy and gain insights.