Writing a book is hard in itself, but one of the hardest parts is trying to keep track of everything! I often find myself re-reading entire chapters just to remember what I once wrote, or struggling to find time during the day that I can dedicate to focusing on writing.
Here are 4 things I do to help keep myself organized when I am writing a book:
1. Keep a Binder of Book Information
This binder should include pages with the following information:
The overall premise
Any research that had to be done for the book
A one sentence summary of the book
The setting, narrator, and timeframe
A list of important characters, including their ages, appearance, and a few words about their personality
A quick one or two sentence summary of each chapter
A full-page outline of each of your main characters. Read my previous blog to see what questions you should answer about each characters on these pages!
Pages for each chapter, including 5-10 bullet points for what happens in each chapter
A few blank pages at the back for anything you come up with along the way so you can record it and come back to it
By doing this, you should be able to keep organized when actually writing the chapters and trying to remember little details, especially as you get further into the book.
2. Set a Schedule for Yourself
You’ll never actually sit down to write if you don’t get into the habit. For instance, perhaps block off 6:00 to 7:00 every night to write. Set a word count goal too to keep you focused and motivated during that time. Perhaps each day you want to write 1,000 words in that one hour.
By getting into this habit, you’ll ensure you stay on track and finish your book in no time! However, remember that it is okay to miss a day or two each week, or more if you’re ever experiencing writer’s block.
3. Create a Designated Space
You should select somewhere in your living space that you find most productive. I don’t recommend a bed, or a couch, or anywhere with easy access to distractions. Typically, a kitchen counter or office desk is best.
By giving yourself this space to write, and to store all your writing materials such as your binder, you will be better able to focus and stay on track to finishing your book!
4. Schedule Deadlines for Editing
Once you finish writing your book, you may find yourself closing the laptop and forgetting about it for months. While there’s nothing wrong with taking a break, I have found personally that when I take breaks, I lose interest.
So, my advice is to keep yourself on a schedule even after you finish. Even if the schedule involves taking a month off without even looking at your 150-page Word document. Set a deadline for when you want to be finished your first review, your second review, and your third review. If you’re having someone else review it, be sure to give them some extra time.
Hopefully with these tips, you can stay organized and on track while writing your own books. If you want any more information, feel free to contact me! I’m more than happy to connect and discuss your own organization techniques.
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