The Scribe Method The Best Way to Write and Publish Your Non-Fiction Book
Outline The Introduction
Most readers—probably including you—tend to skip book introductions. Why? Because too many authors make the mistake of using the introduction to summarize the entire book, rather than engaging the reader.
Here’s the truth: The introduction isn’t about giving away everything upfront. Its purpose is to captivate readers, prove that the book is worth their time, and compel them to keep reading.
Your book’s price isn’t what scares potential readers away—it’s the time commitment. People aren’t worried about spending $10; they’re worried about spending hours on something that doesn’t engage them.
A well-crafted introduction grabs the reader’s attention, connects with their pain points, and promises a transformation. It answers the all-important question: “Why should I read this book?”
What a Great Introduction Should Do
A powerful book introduction should:
- Capture the reader’s interest immediately
- Clearly present the pain or problem they are facing
- Paint a compelling picture of the benefits they’ll gain
- Briefly outline what they will learn
- Establish the author’s authority and credibility
- Get them committed to reading the book
What an Introduction Should NOT Do
Avoid these common mistakes:
- Summarizing the entire book upfront
- Overloading the reader with unnecessary details
- Turning it into an autobiography
- Failing to hook the reader in the first few lines
- Meandering or going off on unrelated tangents
- Being too long or overly explanatory
The Proven Formula for an Effective Introduction
A compelling introduction follows a simple but effective structure:
- Hook the Reader
Your first sentence should immediately grab attention. Consider using:
- A thought-provoking question
- A surprising fact or statistic
- A dramatic or unexpected statement
- A personal anecdote that resonates with the reader’s experience
Example hooks:
- “You’ve been told a lie. Everything you know about sugar is wrong.”
- “I thought I was going to die.”
- “We shot dogs. Not by accident. We did it on purpose, and we called it Operation Scooby.”
- Describe the Reader’s Pain
Once you’ve hooked them, show them why they should care. What problem brought them to your book? Instead of simply stating facts, tell a story that illustrates their struggle.
- Show the Reader’s Transformation
Now, paint a picture of what’s possible. Describe how their life could change if they follow your book’s guidance. Make the transformation feel real and achievable.
- Tell Them What They’ll Learn
Give a brief, compelling overview of what your book will teach them. Keep it clear and simple so that even a seventh-grader could understand it.
- Establish Your Credibility
Why should the reader trust you? Share a short story that explains your background and why you wrote this book. But remember—this is about them, not you. Only include details that establish your authority on the topic.
- Set Expectations (Optional)
Let the reader know what the book is—and what it isn’t. This helps set expectations and ensures they know exactly what value they’ll get.
- End with a Call to Action
Wrap up the introduction with a smooth transition that leads into the first chapter. Encourage them to continue reading.
Ready to Write an Introduction That Hooks Readers?
By following this proven formula, you can craft an introduction that pulls readers in and keeps them engaged until the last page.
Want more expert guidance on writing and publishing your book? Read The Scribe Method for free online here or grab a hard copy here.