How to Write Your First Ebook

writing your first ebook may seem like a daunting task. But like many projects, it won't seem so bad when it's broken down into manageable chunks. Not all projects are successful, so don't be too disappointed if your first ebook isn't a best seller. Whatever the outcome of your first ebook, you can at least say 'You did it'.

Like many things in life, what often seems impossible can be attained with the right attitude and the right equipment. It could be a marathon run, climbing a mountain or finding parking space at the supermarket.

If you want to play golf, you will need clubs, balls and some practice. There's no guarantee you will become another Tiger Woods but you will become a golfer.

If you want to write an ebook, you will need a computer, software and some directions. Assuming you have a computer and software or access to them, here are some directions.

Establish Your Reasons

Your reasons for wanting to write an ebook will have a major impact on your success. It may be for financial gain, promoting a Business, advancing your career, education, self satisfaction or something entirely different. Whatever your reasons, write them down. It will help to motivate you if the going gets tough.

Choose Your Subject

There are countless subjects that you can write about. It's wise to choose something you have an interest in or knowledge of. It is worthwhile spending time on this. The more you know about your subject, the easier it will be to write about.

Choose Your Title

After you've chosen your subject, you'll need a title for the ebook. It's worth writing down a few different ones before deciding on the one you'll use. This will help to keep your focus and may give you some other ideas. The title should give a clear indication of the content in your book. A catchy title may help to sell it, but remember to balance this with clarity to keep it in context. I've written down two examples. Feel free to use them if you have a sense of humor.

A Clubbers Paradise - golfing in Ibiza

20 Minutes Late - The Future of Trains

Choose Your Audience

The subject and style of your writing will determine your audience. Decide who your desired audience will be. Age, gender, culture, social background and education are factors you may want to consider. What you write should be targeted at your desired audience.

Write Your Thesis Statement

Although it's possible to write your ebook without a 'thesis statement', it is not recommended. If you are unfamiliar with this term, there are many sources available that will provide you with all the details you need. Unfortunately, there are some differences of opinion that may lead to confusion.

The 'thesis statement' deserves a separate article of its own but for now I have written a general definition of a thesis statement for ebooks. This may leave the door open for criticism but is a small price to pay if it removes some of the confusion. More importantly, it will give you a base on which to start. Only use it as a guideline. If you want a more specific definition, Google is a good place to start your search.

A thesis statement is a sentence or tw