CHAPTER 1: ORGANIZATION

  In this chapter we're going over the fundamentals of:

 - Creating a Freelance Writer's spreadsheet.

 - Outlining your story.

- Carrying out research for useful information.

- Setting aside your manuscript.

- Getting a professional edit.

1. Create a Freelance Writer’s spreadsheet -

  I have many interests, such as writing, art, history, film, music, and several more. We all have various skill sets we can draw from to create “how to” articles. Maybe you’re a writer who’s found unusual but effective ways to hold book signings. Or maybe you’re a parent who designs fun activities to entertain kids without the Xbox, computer, phone, or TV. The more you know a topic, the better you can write about it.

2. Outlining your story. - 

  What your story is about.

Keep it simple, but interesting. Don`t add unnecessary words, and/or sentences that will throw your writing off balance. 

3. Carrying out research for useful information. -

  It's your friend. We can’t always be in the places we write about. Even if you live in the city that’s prominent in your book, you still want to research all the little things that make your city special: food, festivals, how people talk, their history, and culture. After buying your book, readers will definitely call you out for misstating a historical fact that anyone can check. For example, you’d probably feel foolish if a reader pointed to a riot scene in Los Angeles that you set in 1995 instead of 1992 when the riots took place.

4. Setting aside your manuscript. - 

  If you stare at your work for long periods, your mind can play tricks . You might miss grammar and punctuation errors. Put it away for a while (some writers say a week; others say put the project on hold for at least a month). A fresh pair of eyes will help you see your words in a new light.

5. Get a professional edit. -

  This is arguably, the most important step in the book production process— and the one that inexperienced writers often skip. Some think self-editing is enough while others go a little further and have friends “edit” their work. I’ve been guilty of it. Hire an editor. Editors are not only trained to spot obvious errors, such as misspelled words and weak verbs and nouns, but also character flaws, weak plots, and boring dialogue. No way around it, editing can be expensive, but without a doubt, it is crucial. Editors who write need the services of other sharp editors to see what they have not.