how do you get started on writing a book, other than actually writing it?

Answer 1

Normally, authors have taken notes and done outlines and sketches on many topics before settling on a book to write. They may have done extensive research or simply lived and traveled. Depending on their approach, they may expand the story line or develop scenes in which the characters behave. At some point, most do research on details of setting and historical times either to learn about them or to refresh their memory from earlier study or experience.
Depending on how the author works, the story (or factual book for that matter) may be developed as a series of file cards that can be rearranged or moved as groups. Authors may create chapters out of order or write from beginning to end. It is often the job of an editor to cut and shape the manuscript to reduce duplications and eliminate errors. Friends of the author or editors will read the book in manuscript and point out holes in the plot or missing or duplicate information or inconsistancies.

Answer 2

Find a subject that really interests you. Then study all sources that you can find on this subject. Find out the good and the bad of this subject. Taking notes all the time. Be sure not to plagiarize material. Decide if you want to write biographic or novel style. I lot of fun is writing actual happenings in a fictional style. Changing names etc. Take all your notes and materials and make an outline. Then set yourself down somewhere that you'll have peace and quiet and begin your story. You may start many, many times. But when you hit your stride (and this is the thrill of writing) the story line should flow right out of you. Good Luck

Answer 3

I generally develop characters first by listing all names and traits that they would have such as hair color, personality traits, eye color, etc. to get you familiar with the character it helps you write better. Then I go onto a map site and find a city that I want to base the story on and find key places that I want to use in my story using different names of course but that again helps you to familiarize yourself with your characters city. Then I brainstorm titles and a reason of why I like each title and how it is relavant to the story. Then I write a list of major events that I know I want to include. That is the best way to prepare yourself for without actually writing the story

Answer 4

Developing the characters into people you want to know all about can happen in your head before it goes on paper. Think of a title to keep you motivated. Oh yeah, the writing thing. It is a HUGE part... of the writing of the book. Sorry. Yep. True.

Answer 5

Plan out your main plot line, the back bone. You'll find more details as you start. Then making a profile for each character. You have to KNOW your character before you can write them.

Also, I just got an idea, thought it might be cool, and stretched it out into a story. I'm not done, but that's how I started it. :)

Answer 6

Start by reading other people's books. If you come across one that you are interested in make a list of things you like most about it and the things you don't like at all. Then ask yourself what would it be like if you were in that world or one just like it. Such as things you can improve in that society or fictional world. And if you find that you have written more than three pages of work, list , and brainstorming then that is your novel in the process!

Answer 7

brainstorming in a notebook

Writing short stories and seeing what develops into a longer plot.

If you go to my profile you will see I star Q and A on writing and publishing. Read through them. Print out some you think will help you.
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They're, Their, There - Three Different Words.

Careful or you may wind up in my next novel.

Pax - C

Answer 8

I read a lot. I'm writing a fiction book, so I read non fiction to make it realistic. Since my characters are homeless, I've also done a few interviews, volunteered in a thrift store, and worked in a homeless shelter.

Answer 9

Think of some ideas brainstorm write a story that comes to mind and just keep working at it=]

Answer 10

pick a story line,then people to bring alive.
Where does it take place? who is the main person.
what times of the year,
Make a profile of each person. Color of hair,eyes clothes,measurements. anything about them.put it on a card for reference.
Carry a note pad,when a idea comes in your mind,
write it down.