Goals and Objectives in Authoring an eBook

Goals begin behaviour, consequences maintain behaviour!

Introduction

It is ESSENTIAL to set goals, objectives, targets, expected outcomes... throughout the eBook authoring process.

The positive consequences of completing tasks that accomplish the goals you have set is the motivation to keep moving forward.

For ease of communication the term 'goals' shall be used to represent all of the synonyms associated with the word.

Big Picture Goals

You must have a general overall goal which is to write and publish your own eBook. This is the BIG PICTURE goal. You need to see yourself weeks or months from now as a published author collecting "passive income" for your efforts. Passive income is income generated forever after you have completed the initial eBook writing.

Updates are recommended but not essential. If you choose to provide your eBook for free you will still receive passive results through your ongoing contribution to someone's successful use of your work. Better still, you could see yourself writing another eBook.

The big picture goals include some visualizations, some dream fulfillments, some major accomplishment you have always wanted to pursue, some lasting contribution to a body of knowledge.

Working Goals

Besides the big picture goals, you must establish goals for each of the steps in the eBook authoring process. These 'working' goals are your nitty-gritty, hard working daily motivators.

Without the big picture goal you won't get started and without the working goals you won't keep going.

"You dream won't come true, it won't happen to you - unless you have goals to motivate you to begin and continue."

We all understand the importance of goals but we're not as good at establish appropriate goals, deciding how to reach them or taking the time to write them down. Even after goals are written, the most important step is often left out - HOW you are going to reach them!

Let's look at a couple of examples.

Big Picture Goals

February 11, 2002

My goal is to write an eBook titled, Classroom Visits by School Administrators, for use by teachers and administrators in schools where teacher evaluations require classroom visits as part of the supervision and evaluation process. I shall complete the book by March 31, 2002 and be published by the end of May, 2002.

What does this big picture goal have going for it?

It has purpose. It talks about the reason for writing and the target audience.

It is specific. It includes a proposed title and suggests the content.

It is time oriented. It establishes time commitments and completion dates.

Sounds great so far but you should also:

o Write the goal down, preferably in a colourful and dramatic fashion, and post it in a prominent place where you must read it every day. [Bathroom mirrors?]

o Share the goal with as many people as possible but especially with those persons closest to you. This commits you to pursue your goal.

o Enlist the support of 2 or 3 people who may not help you write but will encourage you to keep going during the rough times. This allows you to keeping progressing toward the goal. They act as a mirror of your commitment. They keep you on track.

What next?

Big Picture Goal: to write an eBook entitled, Classroom Visits by School Administrators

Start: Feb. 11,2002 Finish: May 31,2002

Now you must break that goal down into several sub-goals that are very general in nature but more specific than the overall big picture goal.

This step in goal setting involves breaking down your big picture goal into smaller and more manageable goals; establishing a target date for completion of the goal; listing the means to accomplish the goal (your to do list); and recording the actual date when the objective was reached.

Goal

Targeted Finish Date

Actual Finish Date

Means to Accomplish the Goal

To prepare myself to write an eBook

Feb. 20 take the eBook Teleseminar from AwakenTheAuthorWithin.com

Feb. 18 contact 2 colleagues or friends to act as mentors

Feb. 21 write my big picture goals and share them with my mentors and others

Feb. 13 set aside on my calendar a minimum of 6 hours per week to author the book

Feb. 10 talk to my significant other about what I intend to do and why. Ask for help.

What does this format of goal writing have going for it?

1. The big picture (overall) objective is clearly articulated in very specific language.

2. A specific time/date is declared for the completion of each task. THIS IS A MUST!

3. The big picture goal is broken down into WORKING GOALS each one with a targeted completion date.

4. The working goals are also specific and dated.

5. The most important aspect of goal setting and writing is the use of ACTION VERBS to begin each of the means to accomplish the goals. Words such as take, contact, write, gather, set aside, talk...are CRUCIAL to success.

6. The goals use present tense verbs. There is "immediacy" about them!

These goals are your action plan.

Always record the 'means to accomplish' goals beginning with action verbs. The more action the better!

Include completion deadlines!

Remember:

"There is doing and not doing. There is no such thing as trying!"

You can't try to write a book. You have to do something before it really happens.

Working Goals

Let's take a closer look at working goals. These are the day to day goals leading you to completion of the bigger goal of writing an eBook.

Assume you have started the eBook Authoring Teleseminar Series from AwakenTheAuthorWithin.com and you have received the eBook, Awaken The Author Within - A Definitive Guide to eBook Authoring by Glenn Dietzel and Paul Jackson.

This is your first significant step in the authoring process. You have already begun moving toward your previous big picture goals - you are reading the book and taking the teleseminar series. Using the eBook - A Definitive Guide - as an example of a specific goal leading to completion of your eBook here is what your working goals many look like.

Goal: Read the eBook, Awaken The Author Within - A Definitive Guide to eBook Authoring

The format presented here is only one way this can be done. Do what is most appropriate for you.

Working goals require:

targeted completion date

means to accomplish the goal

actual finish date

Note: For each of these sub-goals you would establish a targeted completion date and record your actual completion date.

Notice how the sub-goals are numbered as they are actually working goals and means to accomplish the goal at the same time. A numbering system keeps you on track and allows for checking off completed tasks as well.

1. Start working with the material in the eBook - A Definitive Guide.

1.1 read the information in the preliminary notes and the eBook

1.2 download and/or print the related information from web site

1.3 re-read information and make brief notes or highlight it

2. Do the work suggested during the Teleseminar Series

2.1 become familiar with the Discussion Board on web site

2.2 post a welcome message and/or questions, comments

2.3 read or re-read two books in Part D of preliminary notes

2.4 visit web sites suggested in notes

2.5 choose and contact my team members

2.6 choose a topic and/or title of my eBook

2.7 gather together any materials readily available to begin writing

2.8 arrange to have someone type my eBook (if necessary)

2.9 begin search and recording of applicable web sites

2.10 record dates on calendar of all 5 eBook Teleseminar sessons

What do these written goals and means to accomplish them have to teach us?

The goals are:

Written in specific detail

Use action verbs

Are positively worded

Have targeted completion dates

Are specific to the bigger objective of dealing with the authoring eBook

In reality, goals are always broken down into smaller goals and smaller goals again which become the action plan for reaching your big picture goal.

They can be added to, revised, have the completion dates altered... so you successfully complete your dream.

BIG PICTURE

The overall goal of writing an eBook

To

STEPS

These are also goals but steps/stages/processes/... along the way

To

WORKING GOALS

Goals specific to each of the steps or stages

To

ACTION STATEMENTS

These are the means to accomplish the goals.

10 Steps to eBook Authoring

The 10 Steps as outlined here are representative of 10 steps/goals to reach the big picture goal of authoring and publishing an eBook. Each of these 10 steps is further broken down into working goals and then into action statements.

For each of the 10 Steps to eBook Authoring, a reflection and writing stem has been provided to get you started with some action ideas of how to accomplish the goal of completing the Step.

Step RaW Stems - Reflective and Writing Stems

I Idea

* I've always dreamed about writing a book about _____

* My experience says an eBook about _____ is needed.

* If I wrote an eBook about ____, ____ would be interested in it.

II Reflection

* My primary motivation for authoring an eBook is _____

* Additional benefits to writing it will be _____

* I have a head start on the process because _____

III Commitment

* I will discuss the eBook concept with _____

* I will seek out additional information about eBooks from _____

* I will sign up for an eBook authoring course from _____

IV Big Picture

* In general terms my eBook will be about _____

* Some of the topics covered in my eBook will be _____

* The objectives of the eBook will be to _____

V Chunking

* The general topic will have sub-topics such as _____

* The format(s) I choose to use will include _____

* In terms of portability, interactivity, and versatility I will _____

VI Writing

* The choice of word processor, font, graphics, ... will be _____

* My style of writing shall be _____

* In this part of the process, I shall seek help from _____

VII Editing

* After writing with flow and little editing I will be ready to _____

* I will use automatic spell and grammar checking as well as ____

* Since this is a time-consuming and crucial step I shall _____

VIII Publishing

* Among the choices I have for publishing I choose __ because __

* They eye appeal of my eBook is ensured by _____

* The publishing process is _____

IX Marketing

* I shall choose _____ for marketing my eBook because ____

* In addition to the primary marketer I shall ____ to sell my book.

* To track my eBook on the market I shall _____

X Celebrating

* After completion of the eBook I plan to _____

* I shall send thank-you notes and copies of my eBook to _____

* Upon reflection of the eBook authoring process I intend _____

Review your goals on a regular basis

WHY?

A progress report toward your dream

Keeps you motivated and working

Justifies the process of goal setting

Keeps you on track with your time lines

Gives you cause to celebrate

WHEN?

At regular intervals during the process [weekly, bi-weekly, monthly]

At the end of each step along the way

When you need a "boost" by seeing what you've already accomplished

When you take the time to reflect on past accomplishments

When you re-write or add goals.

HOW?

Set aside a specific time to review goals

[Sunday morning before the Sunday paper]

Write a journal note about your progress

Tell someone about what you are doing.

Then celebrate again! You can never get enough celebrating.

Establishing a method of recording your goals along with dates and means to accomplish them will ensure that you reach them. There is much that has been written about goals and goal setting. In eBook authoring, establish how you want to proceed toward your Big Picture goal of writing a book.

© 2005 Paul Jackson

Paul Jackson is an eBook author and retired Elementary School Administrator responsible for training sessions for teachers and administrators. Paul uses his educational background to help eBook authors accomplish their goal of writing and publishing a book. At http://www.ebookwritingandpublishing.com eBook Authoring Services opens the door of opportunity for anyone dreaming of leaving a written legacy of their passion in eBook format.

Rating the eBook Compilers

Now that you've finished writing your eBook and have a

basic understanding of what an eBook compiler does,

you may be feeling overwhelmed by the number of

compilers on the market. To help you make your

decision, I have tested and reviewed the best-rated

eBook compilers currently available.

* E-ditor

This software has a demo version that you can download

to try out before purchasing. You can't actually use

the demo to create an eBook, but you can run the

software and test it out thoroughly to see if it does

what you need it to do for your particular eBook.

This eBook compiler is one of the easiest to use. The

software has a very user-friendly help menu that

provides instructions for and explanations of every

field on every screen. The program also includes video

tutorials demonstrating every step of this compiler

with clear explanations of all fields that need to be

filled out. There are 7 screens that you use to choose

your eBook options.

This compiler requires your files to be in HTML

format. You follow simple directions, and the compiler

loads your files. If you decide to edit your eBook

after it has been compiled, make any changes in your

original files and click on "Compile your eBook" and

your changes will appear in your compiled eBook.

E-editor allows for some customization of your eBook.

You can create a special page that appears when the

eBook is opened; create customized icons that appear

on the desktop after downloading; use your own logo on

the task bar of your eBook; customize the task bar's

buttons, where the task bar appears in your eBook, and

choose the task bar's colors. Additionally, you can

choose to have the eBook open to the last page read,

which many of your buyers will appreciate.

An excellent and unique feature of E-ditor is the

capability to choose a standard Microsoft window or to

create your own design for a window to personalize

your eBook. The program provides some sample window

designs, but you can use any .bmp (bit map skin)

graphic you have stored on your hard drive.

E-ditor is a good choice if you are new at producing

eBooks because it is easy to use and allows you to

customize the appearance of your eBook.

* Desktop Author

This compiler does not require a browser, nor do you

have to download software or plug-ins. The program

converts exe. files into pages that look like a

standard book. You can create and produce eBook pages

scaled to fit on your computer screen without any

scrolling. Additional features include WYSIWGY (what

you see is what you get) page editing and creation,

the ability to manipulate internal images, cut and

paste functions, hotlinks to pages, email, website, or

other files. It is an excellent compiler to use for a

marketing tools, such as creating brochures and

manuals in addition to eBooks.

* EBook Edit Pro

This compiler provides a demo version, which allows

you to test out its features. The software uses a

Wizard that leads you step-by-step through the set-up

and creation of your eBook. Customization includes

text editing that appears on the pop-up starting

message window; the ability to allow or prevent

resizing of your book and the mouse-click pop-up menu;

enabling or disabling the navigation bar and choosing

the buttons you want to appear; and customizing the

eBook's desktop icon and the logo that appears on the

navigation bar.

Ebook Edit Pro is loaded with excellent features that

allow you to create multi-media Ebooks, and includes a

Wizard that is customized for beginners and for

advanced users. The software uses HTML files,

downloading them from the directory where they are

saved. Edit and resave your files in the original

software used to create those files, and then with a

single click you can re-compile your Ebook.

Features include customization of icons, toolbars, and

the "about box." This compiler has a particularly

useful feature called the Rebrander feature. This

permits you to enter customized code into your Ebook

pages and distribute the Rebrander software to your

affiliates or distributors. They can then customize

the links included in the Ebook, but they can not

alter any link or information that you have not

entered a customized code for.

The software includes "eBrand-It" software that allows

custom fields for your customer's name, affiliate ID

or URL. This feature is a powerful marketing tool

because affiliates are much happier giving away your

Ebook from their own site when they can customize it.

* Ebook Compiler

This compiler offers a demo version that allows you to

compile 10 files. If you don't include graphics, you

can create a 10 page Ebook that allows printing and

copying of the Ebook. The catch is that you can't sell

any Ebook you create in the demo version.

The purchased software is user-friendly with

easy-to-follow help files that not only guide you

through the steps of compiling your Ebook, but also

explains what an Ebook compiler does. The software

provides detailed instructions on how to create source

files from Microsoft Word 2000 and 1997, PowerPoint

2000 and 1997, and HTML documents. It contains less

detailed instructions for creating source files from

other programs.

This compiler allows for password protection of your

entire Ebook or for selected pages. Additionally, you

can set a time limit on your Ebook. When the runs out,

the customer no longer has access unless they pay for

it. In other words, it allows you to create a demo

version of your Ebook for marketing purposes.

You can set a single password or multiple passwords.

Using multiple passwords assigns each user their own

specific password. Online help files guide you through

setting up your passwords. You can also create a Sales

and Thank-you page for selling a password protected

Ebook. This is a good choice for the novice,

particularly since it includes basic features for

password protection and distribution.

* Activ Ebook Compiler

This is an easy to use compiler that provides

excellent features. This software can support HTML,

JPEG, GIF, and all active plug-ins. Features includes

password protection, branding, internet linking, icon

customization, assigning unique serial numbers, splash

screen, file compression, and start-up messages. It

also provides free lifetime upgrades. Additionally, it

includes a preprocessor, re-brander, active script,

and detailed instructions for using HTML, Power Point,

and Microsoft Word files.

There are several other excellent Ebook compilers on

the market that are worth looking into.

Ebook Generator features splash screens, password

protection, branding, icon customization, and

compression control. Additionally, it includes virus

prevention that alerts the user to any modifications

made to your Ebook and offers usage statistics so you

can track your Ebook's use. With all these advanced

features, this is an excellent compiler for the

beginner because it is exceptionally easy to run.

Ebook Creator is another excellent compiler,

supporting HTML, JPEG, GIF, and PNG graphics, and

Javascript, VB script, and Java applets. It also

supports all Internet Explorer plug-ins. Standard

features include unique serial numbers, direct linking

to a form or a page on your website, disabled right

clicking, and search functions. The software allows

for expiration after a set number of days or usages,

which allows you to create demo versions. You can

create up to 1000 different passwords; every time the

Ebook is downloaded, a unique password is required to

access protected pages. The software provides

user-friendly menus and buttons that allow the

beginner to the advanced user to easily create their

Ebook.

Obviously, there are some excellent compilers out

there. So figure out EVERYTHING you need in terms of

features, and then compare prices and options. Do take

advantage of demo versions if they are offered before

purchasing. And then, have fun creating your Ebook!

Creating a Christian eBook Cover

You probably have heard the saying, "don't judge a book by its cover." But in reality people do in fact judge a book by its cover. It is the first thing they see that makes the book content tangible to them, and many individuals within a split moment of setting their eyes on a book cover decide whether they think a book is worth their money and time. So, what is my point exactly? Creating an excellent Christian ebook cover is just as important as its rich, valuable content. It is the cover of your ebook that may make someone decide to read the excerpt about your ebook content, and possibly purchase and download it to read. Therefore, creating a Christian ebook cover is not a task that you can afford to take lightly or for granted. This is a critical component of the creation of your Christian ebook, as well as its promotion and marketing success.

An ebook is a digital product that is also digitally delivered. So, 100% of your customers or readers encounter your Christian ebook online. These customers at the same time see many other ebooks. So, how do you get them to focus on your own ebook with its Christian content? Even if your Christian ebook is free, you still need to generate enough interest and curiosity in your potential readers to get them to download it, and hopefully, read it.

You need to master the art of designing your own ebook cover; one, because it is essential, and two, because it would cost you a bit to hire a graphics designer to design covers for all the ebooks that you plan to write. So, you do need to learn to "fish" for and by yourself. Also, as an author of a Christian ebook you need to capture the vision of your inspiration on the cover.

Deciding on what ebook cover creator software that you are to invest your money to purchase, and time to learn how to use, should depend on a number of factors:

1. Your budget. How much money do you currently have? Sometimes, your budget may in fact be a full circle zero. Yes, I mean that literally. So, what do you do? You cannot purchase an ebook cover creator software for zero dollars? Here's what I suggest in this kind of situation: search the Internet for free PDF software such as Primo PDF program, which is a Free PDF Converter Tool. This is not a trial PDF version; it is actually free. So, download and install this free PDF application. Write your Christian ebook in a word processing program. Hopefully, you have access to a word program, such as Microsoft word. You can convert your word file to a PDF file using the free PDF converter tool that you downloaded and installed on your personal computer. You can also create a cover design in word, yes I know this sounds unreal, but you can actually do this, and then convert it to a PDF file. This is for a zero budget, for writing and creating your first Christian ebook. This is very possible and doable.

2. You have limited budget for creating an ebook and its cover, and you do not wish to be bothered with the "technical" aspects of ebook creation. Write and edit your ebook and then submit your ebook to a Christian website that charges zero dollars to less than $40.00 or higher. They will publish and sell your ebook at no additional cost to you. You will receive royalty payment for every time someone buys your ebook.

3. You have a reasonable budget and plan to write multiple Christian ebooks. You can invest in purchasing an ebook cover creator software application. Prices can range from $19.99 to less than $200. You may even get cheaper prices on eBay. My suggestion is that you start with minimal cost or investment that will offer you a high yield on your investment. In other words, purchase an ebook cover creator software that does not cost much, creates brilliant covers and is easy to use. Get independent opinions from other individuals who have used different kinds of ebook cover creator software, that is, before you commit to purchasing one. Read ebook Blogs and sample individual opinions about ebook cover creator software. Be vigilant in your sampling of opinions because sometimes the owners of the software post favorable opinions to get people to purchase their product.

Many of the ebook cover creator software owners also offer re-sell rights. So, you buy the software and you can also sell it to others. This way, you can make some profit, or at the very least, recover the money you invested in purchasing the software.

As a Christian ebook writer, creator and publisher, who may give away an ebook for free, or decide to start selling such ebooks, you do not have the option to produce low quality ebooks. Aside from the fact that you have numerous competitors, both from the secular and Christian ebook markets, you also need to represent excellent works for the Body of Christ, God's Kingdom here on earth. If you plan to teach, preach or evangelize with your Christian ebooks, then you must present quality covers and content that can and will gain and sustain the focus of your readers. I stress that you really need to select a good ebook cover creator software that makes brilliant covers, and at the same time, is easy to use. The same applies to the ebook creator software that you choose to purchase and use in creating your Christian ebook.

Don't loose out on potential readers by presenting a low quality, or mediocre Christian ebook cover. Let the light of the glory of God who inspires you to write also reflect on your first and subsequent ebook covers. God is excellent in all His ways and has also given us a spirit of excellence. So, let your Christian ebook cover stand out above others, especially your secular competitors.

Remember that an ebook cover makes the content more tangible and more real to your potential readers. This is an instant subconscious process that could work in your favor, if you have a brilliant, professional and inspirational Christian ebook cover. Also, excellent images tend to stick to a person's subconscious memory. So, you want to design a Christian ebook cover that is hard to ignore or forget.

Jacyee Aniagolu-Johnson, PhD is the author of an upcoming Christian non-fiction book release, ?Rays of Victory: Nailing Racism to the Cross.? For more information about the upcoming book release by Marble Tower Publishing, LLC, please visit http://www.marbletowerpublishing.com

I grant permission to anyone who wishes to reprint and distribute this article on the condition that it is reprinted and distributed in its entirety, including all specified links.

? Jacyee Aniagolu-Johnson 2006

For Wannabe eBook Authors - 5 Key Questions

Are YOU ready for the eBook authoring adventure? Do you have what it takes to author an eBook? Is there an eBook author inside of you? Are you not sure whether or not you have what it takes to write that book that's been living inside of you for years? Are you reluctant to start writing your eBook, fearing that you won't complete it?

Let's examine your attitudes, skills and knowledge that you bring to the eBook authoring process. Let's look at some key questions you can ask yourself to see if your "readiness" for embarking on this authoring adventure is obvious.

The following questions are not meant to cover everything you should know about yourself before beginning the authoring process but they will give you a good idea where you stand. You may be surprised at some of the criteria mentioned.

This is not your conventional assessment of what it takes to author an eBook. Criteria like knowledge of the subject area, experience with the problems addressed in the eBook, familiarity with members of the target market for your eBook, and previous work done on your eBook topic are assumed.

This is a reflective look at what you should and could bring to the eBook authoring process. It's the non-conventional criteria that will be addressed here.

Remember that we are talking about eBooks not pBooks (standard published books) and therefore the attitudes, skills and knowledge you require are different. eBooks are a marriage of creative writing (for non-fiction primarily) and eBook technology. Your eBook is designed to be viewed on a computer monitor. Your eBook is very much like a living web page. You have at your disposal for use in your eBook the wonders of internet, web and eBook technology. Writing is but one part of the eBook authoring process.

Every step of the eBook authoring process is affected by the fact that eBooks are inventions of technology, software programs, creative writing and the World Wide Web among other aspects.

Consider: The Ten Steps of eBook Authoring -

I Idea

II Reflection

III Commitment

IV Big Picture

V Chunking

VI Writing

VII Editing

VIII Publishing

IX Marketing

X Celebrating

There is not one step in this process that will not require a different way of thinking compared to the conventional ideas of writing a book. That's not to say that there is no carry-over from pBook to eBook. There is much in common but it is also necessary to approach the writing of an eBook with a much different audience in mind that the one who would normally purchase your book at a book store.

As an example, the fact that your customer will not be able to physically touch your eBook before purchasing it means that your "Big Picture" idea of a jacket for your pBook now becomes a look at an eBook cover graphic digitally reproduced but no less appealing than your standard pBook cover. In fact, cover design for eBooks is sometimes even more important than for a standard book.

Another example is the technological expertise of your target market. eBooks don't require any special skills to use them properly but it does require that your target market have access to a computer, know how to download information from the internet, and regularly seek answers to their questions from the web.

All of these issues and plenty more make the eBook an interesting, exciting, worthwhile, and rewarding venture into authoring. Add to this list the fact that your expertise level will be enhanced in the same way a standard published authors' would be but at a much reduced cost. You have complete control your eBook all the time. You make much more money selling eBooks than standard book unless you are already a well-known author. You can become a published author quickly and inexpensively while maintaining control of all aspects of the eBook authoring process. You can share your expertise with a world-wide audience 24/7.

Leave a written legacy of your knowledge and expertise. Author an eBook.

6 Key Questions

Question #1

Do YOU relish the opportunity to share your expertise, knowledge, and skills?

The excitement generated when someone downloads your free eBook or purchases your "expertise" makes your work well worth the effort. eBooks provide an opportunity, at a very reasonable cost, to target a world-wide market of people sharing your interests.

The Internet is the number one source of instant information. Your eBook should be written to address the needs and problems of your target market. Your objective in writing your eBook is to share what you have learned with others. You will be seen as an expert. Your job is to help people solve problems by sorting through the glut of information available to your readers and get right to the heart of the problem.

Readers want instant solutions to problems. They want the delivery of the eBook answers immediately without leaving the office or home. Readers appreciate the time you have taken to help them solve their problem. Making contacts with "like minds" is a bonus, especially for the author.

Do you have something about which you are passionate? About which you have experience? About which you have gained insights and knowledge that would be of value to others? About which your wisdom would best be shared before it is lost forever?

So the very first question you have to answer is do you have an interest or area of expertise that you are anxious to share with others. Your passion for the subject will carry you throughout the entire eBook authoring process.

Are you interested in sharing your knowledge, skills, attitudes, and passions with the world?

Question #2

Are YOU willing to continue along the road of life-long learning? Are you willing to improve your computer literacy, word processing skills, and Internet savvy?

Regardless of where you currently stand in terms of your knowledge, skills, and attitudes regarding computer and Internet technology, you will have plenty of opportunities to improve in these areas. The option is always yours to learn what you need to know yourself or turn the step over to someone who does. A big part of the adventure is learning how to enhance the message in your eBook through the best techniques available to you. The Internet is all about information. Information sells if packaged well. Information sells when the purchaser sees the benefits of the purchase to enhance his/her life, solve problems or prevent mistakes.

By simply learning more about your word processing software you will have taken a big step! Purchase a good instruction manual that has plenty of pictures, is bright in color and uses the actual images you will see on your computer monitor to help you learn how to do things. The average person using word processing software has only a superficial knowledge of what the software can do. Now you have the opportunity to use this new-found knowledge in the best of all places - your eBook.

eBook technology, properly used, enhances your enjoyment in presenting the material and your audience's reading enjoyment as well. Consider for example that every single web page in the entire universe can readily be placed into your eBook for easy reference. There is no need to reproduce tons of material when a link from your eBook to a web site will do the same thing. Not only that, but the reader doesn't have to wade through material they already know. They can choose to follow the link or not. Another marvelous use of eBook technology is that the reader who leaves your eBook to visit a web page can just as easily come back to your eBook.

Color is another example of eBook technology at its best. You have the entire palette to use in your eBook. Your eBook comes alive with color. There are no limitations unlike the standard pBook where adding color means added costs and added costs mean higher prices and higher prices mean fewer sales. You get the picture.

Considering this question about your personal learning curve, look at your decision to author an eBook as an opportunity to embark on a tremendous learning experience. You take on the role of both teacher (eBook author) and learner (eBook author) with one experience.

Do the "learning" possibilities excite you? You will learn as much about yourself as you will about eBook technology and computers if you have the courage to take up the eBook authoring challenge.

Are you a life-long learner?

Question #3

Are YOU willing to do the research required for your eBook?

It is very probable you already have a fair amount of information readily available for the content of your eBook. This can come in the form of personal experience, articles written by you, web site resources, books and videos on the subject, workshop materials you have presented, and seminars or training sessions you have done.

Research skills will be necessary to make your work accurate, relevant and up-to-date. One of the most amazing aspects of eBook technology is the fact that you continuously update the information in your eBook with relative ease. It won't require producing an entirely new product and tossing out the old books. All that's required is an electronic update of your current eBook. And it costs little or nothing to produce your new eBook. In fact it costs so little you could even afford to give all previous purchasers a copy of the revised eBook for free! There are virtually no distribution charges.

This "up-to-the-minute" research is a two-edged sword. As the author charged with providing your readers with accurate information using the Internet and sorting through that information to find what is truly relevant, you also have the obligation to keep your eBook updated. It's not a problem as an eBook. Your reputation will be enhanced among your readers. Their trust in you will make up-selling other products and services so much easier. You're credible and incredible!

Research isn't just about providing your target market with valuable information. You must also be prepared to do your market research as well. You must be willing to spend time "where your target market hangs out". This means getting to know the right people, the right places, and the right things that will help sell your eBook. In most situations, eBook authors are also active members of organizations, subscribers to magazines and periodicals, attendees at conferences and workshops that your target market is likely to frequent. You are a member of "the group". This is called marketing research for sales and distribution of your eBook.

Of course, there are the technical aspects of the entire process that will also require some attention on your part such as ePublishing. Publishing in the traditional sense is usually done after a contract is signed and the publisher takes over the entire process. No so with eBooks. You are the one! Don't worry. It's not that difficult. Remember, like any other aspect of the eBook authoring process, you can always hire someone else to do it!!! ePublishing or compiling is the term used to convert your book created using word processing software into a format that becomes an electronic book (eBook) so your reader can make best use of it. There are many formats to choose from. Adobe Acrobat - Portable Document Format (PDF) works with all platforms. Like all of the eBook formats available to you, Adobe provides a free Reader so your eBook can be used.

Research in its various forms should be considered part of the dues you must pay to successfully author an eBook. One aspect of eBooks that most appeals to authors and readers is that the writing style is informal and the annotations and formal references used in University papers isn't required. In fact, your readers will welcome that fact that you can talk to them person to person in your eBook and they will get the message. The research component in this question is more behind the scenes but it's an important consideration when embarking on writing an eBook.

Is research a dirty word for you or does it excite you?

Question #4

Do you see yourself as a team player?

Success in anything is seldom accomplished without the help of others. One of the most important methods of leverage is working cooperatively with others to accomplish a particular goal. It makes success quicker and easier. It's all about synergy--the concept that one plus one does not equal two but eleven! Working together with your team you can accomplish more and do it faster than trying to do everything yourself.

In eBook authoring there are many opportunities to work with others. In fact, it would be safe to say that it is impossible that anyone could do it alone. Consider these aspects of eBook authoring that may require the assistance of others.

Mentors can make a tremendous difference to your personal success as an author. Mentors can provide the emotional support you require to keep you on task and encourage you to reach your goal. Mentors can help with specific skills that you may be lacking like learning how to more effectively use your word processing software. Mentors can be experienced writers with whom you can share ideas and experiences. Mentors can be 'experts' in your topic that provide you with insights you might otherwise have not thought about. And mentors can also be your proof-readers and editors when your draft copy requires 'outside' approval and scrutiny.

Technical members of your team may be required to help you design and operate a web site in order to sell your eBook. Technical expertise is often required to compile or ePublish your book from the word processing software to eBook format. Graphic experts can help you design your eBook cover along with other graphics used on your web site or for promotional purposes. Banners on sites and logos for your eBook sales and ad copy many also require outside assistance.

And don't forget those people who form your inner circle of friends, relatives and immediate family. Without the support and encouragement of these people your eBook authoring experience will become more work than adventure.

The last step of The 10 Steps to eBook Authoring is Celebrate. It's no accident that this step is included. The celebration is a team celebration. Without a team, you will not succeed. If you are not a team player, you will find the authoring experience a difficult, in not impossible one.

Are you a team player?

Question #5

Is the entrepreneurial spirit alive in YOU?

Whether or not you have previous entrepreneurial experience you will be able to see how the self-employed and small business operators make money. As an author you will become a small business. Your active involvement in all aspects of the process is essential even though you may not be doing some things like compiling your finished eBook. Learning the business of writing, publishing, and marketing your eBook is fascinating.

It doesn't matter whether you plan to give away your eBook as a bonus for purchasing other products or services or use it to advertise your expertise or sell your eBook as a product, your entrepreneurial skills will need to be addressed. Once more, your attitudes, skills and knowledge will be tested. The learning curve will appear once more. You will become a self-employed author operating a small business just like thousands of other small business owners. Be prepared for this unique adventure. It's exciting.

Time is your biggest investment in the authoring process. Some money will need to be spent to publish and market your eBook. eBooks can be written, published, marketed and sold for an investment of a few hundred dollars at most. Recouping your expense will be much easier than any other form of publishing - self-publishing, standard publishing through a company contract, or print on demand. Should you choose to sell your eBook you will generate life-long income in the order of 40- 95% of the selling price of each book depending on the methods you choose to reach your customer. In addition, your eBook authoring, related speaking engagements, and workshops qualifies you for tax benefits as a self-employed person. An option always remains open to you to publish your eBook in standard paperback or hard cover format.

eBooks are the "doors of opportunity" for anyone wishing to enhance their current careers, establish themselves as an expert in their field, or begin a new career. Published eBooks put the author in a unique position to build a business around this one eBook or other eBooks related to the first one. Business opportunities are generated by your status as a published author. You will have the opportunity to conduct workshops, host teleseminars, produce other products, provide additional services like consulting or coaching, facilitate training sessions, do keynote addresses and of course write other eBooks. Your eBook can become the center of your new entrepreneurial universe.

Does the entrepreneurial spirit in you lead you to eBook authoring?

There they are! Five questions worth your reflective consideration. Five questions that will help you decide whether you have what it takes to author an eBook.

The decision is yours. Let the journey begin! It all starts with an Idea!

© 2005 Paul Jackson

Paul Jackson, a published eBook author and retired educator, clearly appreciates what it takes to author an eBook. His experience as both a writer and an instructor helping people realize their dream of authoring a book qualifies him to ask these very important questions. His business, eBook Authoring Services, at http://www.ebookwritingandpublishing.com is a great starting point for aspiring eBook authors.

30 Truisms About eBook Authoring

The decision to author an eBook is a life-changing decision. The "fallout" from publishing an eBook will change forever the way you see yourself and the way others see you.

Why? That's difficult to say. But the following list of 30 Truisms gleaned from the experiences of successful eBook authors will help answer the question.

So, what are you waiting for? Read the list. Make the decision to author an eBook.

1. You will have access to a world-wide audience via the Internet 24/7 so your book store is always open. You will be amazed when you get downloads of your eBook from 100+ countries and you realize just how small the world really is.

2. You can afford to give away free updated versions of your eBook because of the low cost of making changes and the virtually free delivery system.

3. You can/must/should build a long-term relationship with your customers using email addresses supplied when your eBook is ordered. You can also use this list for communicating other offers to these same customers but never sell or give away your opt-in list.

4. Your readers are a valuable source of feedback on your current eBook if given the opportunity. You can also use their feedback, questions, concerns, and requests to get insights into what other topics need to be addressed for the same target market.

5. Communication skills are very important. You must learn how to write convincing ad and sales copy, effective eZine material, web site content and email communications. Enjoy the excitement of meeting new people all the time.

6. Being in control of the entire eBook authoring process is both a blessing and a curse. You don't have to take orders and direction from anyone else. You are totally responsible for what happens with your eBook. It's an exciting proposition.

7. eBook authoring can lead to self-employment. You can enhance current careers or start new ones. You can use your eBook as a secondary passive income or as a catalyst for an entirely new business. The possibilities are many.

8. Make your dream of writing a book come true. eBooks can fill your authoring needs within a workable time frame, with minimal financial investment, with reasonable effort and with success guaranteed.

9. You become involved in an adventure in creative writing, eBook technology, communication skills and building relationships.

10. You have the opportunity to share your expertise, passion, and knowledge with an audience that needs your help. As a bonus, you are leaving a written legacy of your experiences, wisdom and insights.

11. eBooks are the most cost efficient form of publishing available to you. Recovering your costs is guaranteed. Even if you never recover your initial financial investment, the experience of authoring a published book will still be worth it. Consider it an investment in you.

12. The friendly letter style of writing found in eBooks is conducive to the personal conversation that takes place between the author and the reader. Anyone can effectively communicate in an eBook using simple every-day language and some good planning. eBooks are not academic dissertations.

13. Because of the interactions possible between the author and the readers, it becomes a growth and learning experience for everyone. eBooks can be made as dynamic as you wish. Static standard published books don't have that option.

14. As a published eBook author, you move from the realm of anonymous individual with plenty to share and no means to do it to a measure of importance because of your expertise as a published author. "Experts" have earned that status of respect.

15. The majority of eBook authors can effectively write their book with little or no research. By "conversing" with the reader sharing what you already know and have experienced, you can fill in the details of your Table of Contents. Write - Research - Write. Write your entire book from memory. Go back and fill in the gaps with research. Then edit (re-write) to your final draft before publishing.

16. You will learn as much about yourself as you will about your topic as you complete the eBook authoring journey.

17. While marketing and selling your eBook you are also marketing and selling yourself. You are creating a Brand of both the eBook and yourself. You will be changed forever and be forever changing.

18. The passiveness of earning income from your eBook may be new for many authors. You create your eBook once (excluding revisions) then go on with your life while the eBooks sells on the Internet 24/7 using auto-responders so you can carry on doing whatever you want to do. Passive income from working once and benefiting many times over is the principle that successful entrepreneurs use to build wealth.

19. An "ordinary" person becomes an "extraordinary" person by authoring an eBook. Authoring is a transformational process. It awakens the author within you and moves you in to new personal and professional territory.

20. eBook authors feel better about themselves acquiring inner and outer confidence, better self-esteem, more worthiness, recognition for their contribution to the world, and a sense of giving back.

21. Self-employment as an eBook author brings with it tax benefits you may not otherwise have had. Expanding a business around your expert status as a published author, allows you to "profit" from the experience. You can actually use your eBook to build a full time business for now or your retirement.

22. Authors come to realize very quickly how important the attitudes, skills, and knowledge they have acquired over the years is valued. By sharing wisdom through an eBook, you gain an appreciation for education.

23. The term life-long learning takes on an entirely different meaning when you embark on your eBook authoring journey. You are living this experience not just talking about it.

24. You are doing the world a favour by meeting the needs of niche markets that are often forgotten, dismissed or ignored by the standard publishers. Standard publishers have no interest in a market of 1000 to 10,000 people. But eBooks can reach this market and be profitable doing it. And much appreciated too. Analysis of your target market is a worthwhile experience in itself.

25. eBook authors are overwhelmed by their acceptance into the targeted niche market. Relationships are built, new friends are made, and communication is opened up through eBooks.

26. The thrill of checking your emails to see how many people have purchased your eBook - while you slept or were on vacation - is one that doesn't diminish. It's like magic that 4, 16, or 40 more sales occurred over the past few days while you carried on with life. It's exciting to know that others value what you have to offer and that you are making a difference in someone's life.

27. Identifying and working with niche markets opens up new worlds of opportunities for eBook authors. Working with several related niche target markets at the same time builds reputations and expands business opportunities.

28. Using the eBook as the focus on your business you can easily expand the goods and services you offer to your clients and customers. Consider the possibilities of an expanded business: CD/DVD versions of your eBook; other eBooks; teleseminars; workshops; training programs; consulting; coaching; joint ventures; affiliate marketing; web site hosting; keynote addresses; back of the room sales; co-authoring...

29. Authoring eBooks gives authors the opportunity to measure success in terms other than financial gain. This includes: contacts with people in a more intimate fashion, marketing to the world not just your local area, exchanging ideas with like-minded individuals, expanding your horizons for personal and professional development, satisfying your interest in sharing your expertise and passion, recognition for what you can offer to others, appreciation for small business owners...

30. eBook authors are on the leading edge of a technological revolution where portable devices like eBook readers will join the myriad of other devices transforming our lives. An entire generation is growing up with portable, instant, anywhere/anytime fulfillment of their needs. eBook sales are growing by 30-50% per year and will continue to grow as eBook reading devices improve. Current technology is providing eBook devices that are about the same size as a paperback with LED screens that making reading eBooks as easy on the eyes as reading a paperback.

It all adds up to just one thing! What an experience!

What are you waiting for? Take your first step. Take a chance of a lifetime.

Author an eBook.

© 2005 Paul Jackson

Paul Jackson is a published eBook author who has worked with hundreds of eBook authors helping them reach their dream of writing a book. His experiences with writing eBooks, conducting Book Camps, hosting teleseminars, doing workshops and coaching wannabe and published authors means eBook Authoring Services at http://www.ebookwritingandpublishing.com is a good source of information for all eBook authors.