No matter how much expertise you have to share, writing can often seem like a daunting task. We eavesdropped on a recent Guardian Masterclass with philosopher and author Julian Baggini to learn what it takes to write compelling non-fiction.
During his course earlier this year, Julian shared advice on how to kickstart the writing process, develop ideas, and make non-fiction appealing to both readers and publishers. Here’s a specially curated selection of writing tips we picked up from his class, plus some pragmatic advice on how to keep motivated.
Your biggest challenge as a non-fiction writer will be to make your work interesting to other people
If you’re passionate about a subject, it can often be difficult to imagine others not sharing your enthusiasm. Imagine trying to convince an uninterested sceptic at a party that your book matters.
Write a one- or two-sentence blurb that explains what your book is about
Keep this blurb in mind during the writing process. This will help you to avoid rambling and ensure that very sentence justifies its place.
Work hard. Avoid both despair and delusions of grandeur
Focus on making your writing as good as it can possibly be. Try to avoid thinking about self-doubt or publishing success. Stay grounded.
Read your drafts aloud to yourself
It’s a great way of seeing if the sentences flow. If your writing is awkward to read aloud, it’s probably awkward to read on the page as well.
Be a rigorous but compassionate self-critic
Always look for what could be better, not for what you think you’ve done well. Don’t settle for good enough but don’t demand perfection, either.
Listen to other people’s criticism carefully
If someone doesn’t understand something in your manuscript, it’s likely that others won’t.
Chapter one might become Chapter 10
Always begin writing with a structure in mind – this will enable you to get started. But be flexible if it starts to become a straitjacket. Battleplans often don’t survive first contact with the enemy.
Writing is like climbing
If you look up or down, writing a book can sometimes feel like climbing a mountain. Don’t be intimidated by the size of your project, or the amount of time it’ll take to complete. Just focus on your next step – and don’t forget to enjoy it.
Julian’s books include The Ego Trick and Freedom Regained. Find out more on his website. Browse the full range of Guardian Masterclasses here