How to Write a Contract Proposal for a Book
Authors typically write a proposal for a book they have written, or are currently writing, in an attempt to land a contract from a book publisher. Writing a good proposal for a book requires time and creativity. Book proposals are the most common way authors land contracts for a book they have written. Book proposals contain several sections including an overview, a marketing section, promotion section, facts about the author and sample chapters from the book.
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Instructions
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Write the overview. This first step of a book proposal should capture the interest of the publisher. It should be creative and catchy.
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Complete the marketing section. This section explains to the publisher whom you believe will buy the book. Carefully identify your target market by gender, age, interests, profession, income level, etc.
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Include a promotion statement. This statement explains how you believe you can help the publisher promote the title. This can include things such as book signings, public speaking events and working with the media to get coverage on the book.
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List any competing books currently available. Most books are on topics that have already been written about numerous times. This is an opportunity to list these books and state what makes your book different from the others. State reasons you believe your book is more desirable than the others available.
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Describe yourself. Explain who you are and what qualifications you possess above other authors that make you the best author for this book.
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Outline information about the chapters in the book. List the chapters in the book. After the title of each chapter, write a brief summary of the chapter. This offers the publisher insight into your ideas and writing capabilities.
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Include a sample chapter. Provide an entire chapter to give the publisher a look at your writing style and abilities.
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References
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