Keeping in mind that non-fiction readers invest their time and money in books that meet a felt need, a great philosophy is, “Offer them what they want, then give them what they need.” Here are 14 questions to consider as you write your life-changing message:
What problem is your reader experiencing?
How has the problem been overlooked?
What are they missing out on due to this problem?
What impact has this problem had on their life?
What misconceptions has the reader bought into that might keep him/her from experiencing the benefit you’re about to offer?
What underlying beliefs do they have that keep them from seeing a new solution or alternate view?
What solution or benefit will you show the reader?
What truths will help the reader see the benefit?
What will give them an “aha” moment?
What might influence the reader to avoid possible change?
How are others enjoying the benefit you’re teaching?
What will the reader let go of in order to adapt a new view of their life?
What choice(s) will they make?
What action(s) might they take?
Always keep your reader in mind. Offer them what they want, then give them what they need. As author Dean Merrill says, “Never stop asking ‘what’s in this manuscript for the reader?'”
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Great post. Alice!!! I love, “What will give them an aha moment?” I suppose it starts with the writer first getting those aha moments from God.
I want more ahas, Lord. Aha, I do. ; )
As a CNF writer, your suggestions hit home. I try to write as honestly as possible, keeping the reader in mind. Thanks!
I love finding those “aha moments” for myself…and I love sharing them with others…
Good post!
I really like the advice to think about what misconceptions the reader might have bought into that might keep them from getting the benefit of my message. Takes me to a deeper place in my writing, a good place. Thanks!
Alice,
In my efforts to write more powerful nonfiction, you’ve given me great direction with these 14 questions. I especially like these==>What impact has this problem had on their life? and What will the reader let go of in order to adapt a new view of their life?
It helps me take the reader deeper when I take myself deeper.
I look forward to sharing your article with my fellow writers. Thank you.
Thank you, Alice!
Your suggestions are also helpful for freelance “magazine” writers. Before I query a magazine editor, I’ll make sure that I’ve followed the “14” questions.
Best,
Heather Villa
As a 20-year non-fic writer/author, I still find this list helpful as reminders. This is a valuable resource especially for beginning non-fic writers. I’ll forward it to my writing friends and encourage them to use these as guides. Thanks! Always good info at this blog!
Awesome post for bloggers struggling to identify with their audience as well!
Thanks for the thoughtful info. It will be extremely helpful moving forward.