The Scribe Method The Best Way to Write and Publish Your Non-Fiction Book

How to Create Your Book Writing Plan

If you want to write a book, the most important thing you need is a plan. Writing without a structured approach is like taking a cross-country road trip without a map—you might eventually get there, but it will take far longer and be much more frustrating.

Many aspiring authors believe they need inspiration to write, but the truth is, inspiration alone won’t get your book finished. The secret to success? Discipline.

A well-crafted book writing plan will help you stay on track, maintain momentum, and ultimately complete your book. Here’s how to create one that works for you.

Step 1: Schedule a Time and Place to Write

The first step in your writing plan is to decide exactly when and where you will write each day. This should be non-negotiable—if you wait for the perfect time to write, it will never happen.

  • Choose a Time: Research shows that most people are most creative within the first four hours after waking up. However, if you’re a night owl, adjust accordingly. The key is consistency.
  • Pick a Place: Find a writing location that minimizes distractions and fosters creativity. This could be your home office, a coffee shop, or even your car while it’s charging.

How Much Time Should You Write Each Day?

We recommend writing for at least one hour per day. If that’s not possible, start with 30 minutes—the key is to commit to daily progress. Writing for two to three hours is optimal, but consistency is more important than duration.

Step 2: Set Specific Writing Goals

Your writing plan should include clear goals for each session. A simple but effective target is 250 words per hour. This equates to approximately one book page per day. With this approach:

  • Writing 250 words a day = 30,000-word first draft in 4 months
  • Writing 500 words a day = 60,000-word book in 4 months

Starting with a small, achievable goal helps build momentum and makes the process less intimidating.

Step 3: Build Deadlines

Deadlines force action and hold you accountable. Set a realistic timeline based on your writing pace:

  • Fast pace: 1 chapter per week
  • Moderate pace: 1 chapter every two weeks
  • Slow pace: 1 chapter per month (if this is necessary, reconsider if you have the time to commit to writing a book)

Step 4: Announce Your Book

One of the most effective ways to stay accountable is to publicly declare your intention to write a book. Share your goal on social media, tell friends and family, or join a writing group. Positive feedback will encourage you, and the public commitment will push you to follow through.

Step 5: Keep Yourself Accountable

Accountability is crucial to finishing your book. Here are some methods to stay on track:

  • Daily word count tracking: Post your word count progress on social media or in a private writing group.
  • Writing partners: Partner with another writer to check in on each other’s progress.
  • Rewards and penalties: Treat yourself when you hit milestones and set consequences for missing deadlines.

Focus on What Works for You

The process outlined above is a proven method, but it’s not the only one. The best writing plan is the one that works for you. If you find a unique strategy that keeps you writing consistently, embrace it.

The key to completing your book is commitment, discipline, and action.

Ready to start writing? Get a free copy of The Scribe Method online here or purchase a hard copy today!