How to Write a Non-Fiction Book Proposal

You've got a great book idea and you've done your research. Now all you need is a book proposal--a marketing tool that gives publishers a view of what you can write. Your proposal includes your book and marketing ideas. Follow these tips to write a non-fiction book proposal.

Difficulty:

Moderately Challenging

Instructions

1. Write an overview of your book. Include the main subject and a hook that draws the reader in to the book. Include all your marketing ideas and any ideas for future books.

2. Include an outline of the book. Your outline includes an overview of the whole book, a table of contents and details of each chapter. Add a book synopsis to the beginning of the outline.

3. Put a sample chapter in your book proposal. You want to give the publisher a sample of what you can write. You can show off your writing style here.

4. Include comparisons of your book to other books on the market. Explain why your book is different and needed. Tell why you should be the one to write it. The publisher wants to know you have researched your market and that there is a demand for your book.

5. Tell the publisher what extras will be in your book. Include diagrams, maps and any other special features. Outline any material that will be at the end of your book. Include references and indexes here. Include the length of your book.

6. Write a promotion plan. Your publisher wants to know that you are a team player who already has an idea how to sell the book. Know your market and your audience.

7. Write a bio addressing why you are qualified to write this book.

Resources

• This article outlines steps for successful book proposals.
• This article shows you how to write a computer book proposal.