How to Make Dreams of Being a Published Author Come True

Many writers dream of being published. Most long to see their name on the cover of a book, be recognized as an authority or lecture young writers about their success. The actual road to becoming a published author is far less glamorous. But with the right skills, market research, dedication and perseverance, you may be closer than you think.

Difficulty: Challenging

Instructions

1. Decide what kind of a writer you are. Fiction, non-fiction, adult, children's or magazine are just some of the categories.

2. Write every day. The more you write, the better you will become.

3. Join a writer's society. There are a variety of writing groups available depending on your genre. Writer's societies charge yearly dues and may have some other requirements as well.

4. Find a critique group. There's no better way to improve your craft than by getting insight about your work from other writers. Your writing society will help you connect with groups in your area.

5. Attend writer's conferences sponsored by your organization. These open up a world of opportunities to pitch your work to agents and editors. They also provide invaluable seminars for improving your skills and understanding the market.

6. Purchase copies of Writer's Market each year. These are available on the Internet or at your local bookstore.

7. Write query letters for work you'd like to submit. Check your Writer's Market for names, addresses and submission guidelines. Many houses only accept agented material or queries.

Tips & Warnings

• Don't try and by-pass the query only step. If you send a manuscript to a house that doesn't take them, they will return it unopened or recycle it.
• Always send an SASE with every submission. Your materials will not be returned unless you do.
• Keep on perfecting your work. Your first draft is never your best.
• Carefully construct each query letter with as much care as you would the manuscript itself. Since the letter is the first thing an agent or editor sees, it can make or break you.
• Don't get hung up on one project. Most editors want to know that you can produce more than just a picture book or one novel.