From Blank Page to Published Book – Part 2

Clarity, Structure, and Focus

In Part 1 of this series, we explored common struggles authors face—like confusion about publishing paths, unrealistic expectations, and the pressure to get it right from the start. We also discussed why many writers, especially those self-publishing, often feel overwhelmed.

In this post—Part 2—we’re moving from mindset to action. You’ll learn how to plan your book with practical steps that work for any genre. Whether you’re writing fiction, nonfiction, memoir, or something in between, you’ll walk away with tools to organize your ideas and write with clarity and purpose.


Why Planning Your Book Matters

One of the biggest sources of writing anxiety is not knowing what comes next. That’s where structure helps.

A clear outline gives your brain a roadmap. It breaks a blank page into manageable pieces. This is especially helpful for writers with ADHD or executive dysfunction, who may struggle with focus, memory, or organizing thoughts.

Structure reduces mental clutter and helps you:

  • Avoid decision fatigue
  • Maintain momentum
  • Stay on task even when motivation is low

Instead of blocking creativity, structure supports it. It gives you confidence and helps you move forward without second-guessing every choice.


Step 1: Define What Your Book Is About

Before writing too far ahead, clarify your book’s core idea. This step isn’t just for marketing—it’s a powerful focus tool for you as a writer.

Here are three simple strategies to define your book’s foundation:

✏️ 1. Write a One-Sentence Summary

Also called a logline, this sentence captures the main idea or plot of your book. It keeps you focused and aligned with your message.

Examples:

  • Fiction: “A reclusive girl discovers a hidden kingdom and must choose between her real life and her magical destiny.”
  • Nonfiction: “A practical guide to setting boundaries and protecting your time without guilt.”
  • Memoir: “A woman reflects on her childhood growing up in a cult—and how she found freedom through education.”

Tip: Include your key character(s), the central conflict or theme, and the stakes.

🗣️ 2. Craft Your Elevator Pitch

This is a 2–3 sentence version of your summary. Imagine explaining your book before an elevator door closes. It’s conversational, quick, and helps prepare you for blurbs, interviews, or query letters.

Examples:

  • Fiction: “It’s a fantasy novel about a teen who finds out she’s heir to a magical realm—but she’s not sure she wants the crown. It’s about power, choice, and identity.”
  • Nonfiction: “It’s a guide for creatives with ADHD who struggle to finish big projects. It mixes mindset shifts with step-by-step strategies.”
  • Memoir: “It’s my story of growing up in a family that didn’t believe in modern medicine—and how I became a nurse. It’s about healing, generational trauma, and self-trust.”

🎯 3. Identify Your Target Reader

Knowing who you’re writing for helps you:

  • Choose the right tone
  • Decide what to include or cut
  • Focus your message

Ask yourself:

  • What is your reader struggling with?
  • What do they already read?
  • What do they hope to feel or learn by the end?

Examples:

  • Fiction: “Readers who love slow-burn romance with strong female leads.”
  • Nonfiction: “Busy professionals looking for a simple, science-backed way to create better habits.”
  • Memoir: “People raised in high-control environments who want to feel seen and less alone.”

Step 2: Choose the Right Structure for Your Book

Choosing a structure early can bring clarity and motivation. Here are common book structures by genre to help guide your choice.

📚 Fiction: The 3-Act Structure

Fiction writers often use a three-act structure: beginning (setup), middle (conflict), and end (resolution).

Example:
In The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins:

  • Act 1: Introduces Katniss and the inciting incident
  • Act 2: Focuses on the Games and her survival
  • Act 3: Brings the emotional and plot resolution

Why it works:
It builds tension, supports character growth, and creates a satisfying arc.

📖 Nonfiction: Thematic or Problem-Solution Structure

Nonfiction often uses one of three formats:

  • Thematic: Organized by topics or big ideas
  • Problem-solution: Identifies an issue, then offers steps to fix it
  • Chronological: Useful for step-by-step guides or history-based books

Example:
Atomic Habits by James Clear blends thematic and problem-solution structures. Each chapter tackles a different part of habit-building.

Why it works:
It creates focused, digestible chapters with clear takeaways.

📝 Memoir: Linear, Braided, or Thematic

Memoirs can be structured in different ways:

  • Linear: Follows your life in chronological order
  • Braided: Weaves together different timelines or storylines
  • Thematic: Focuses on repeating themes rather than a timeline

Examples:

  • Linear: Educated by Tara Westover
  • Braided: The Glass Castle by Jeannette Walls
  • Thematic: Tiny Beautiful Things by Cheryl Strayed

Why it works:
Each method serves a different emotional or narrative purpose. Choose based on the story you want to tell.


Final Thoughts: Structure Brings Freedom

There is no one-size-fits-all structure. The best structure is the one that fits:

  • Your genre
  • Your goals
  • Your reader’s expectations
  • The way your ideas naturally unfold

Try outlining your book using different structures. See which one feels easiest to follow. Remember—structure isn’t a cage. It’s a creative support system.


What’s Next?

In Part 3, we’ll walk through creating your first book outline—step by step. You’ll learn how to turn your ideas into a roadmap that makes the writing process smoother and less overwhelming.

If you missed the first part, you can find it here: https://mgediting.com/index.php/2025/05/13/from-blank-page-to-published-book-part-one/

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