How to become an author

Is becoming an author right for me?

The first step to choosing a career is to make sure you are actually willing to commit to pursuing the career. You don’t want to waste your time doing something you don’t want to do. If you’re new here, you should read about:

Overview
What do authors do?

Still unsure if becoming an author is the right career path? to find out if this career is right for you. Perhaps you are well-suited to become an author or another similar career!

Described by our users as being “shockingly accurate”, you might discover careers you haven’t thought of before.

How to become an Author

Becoming an author involves developing your writing skills, finding your unique voice, and sharing your stories or ideas with others. Here are some general steps to help you get started:

  • Practice Writing Regularly: Writing consistently helps improve your skills and build confidence. Try different styles and genres to discover what you enjoy most.
  • Read Widely: Reading books, articles, and other materials expands your understanding of language, storytelling, and different writing techniques.
  • Learn the Craft: Consider taking writing courses, workshops, or joining writing groups to get feedback and improve your work.
  • Create a Portfolio: Compile your best writing samples to showcase your skills to publishers, agents, or online platforms.
  • Submit Your Work: Start by submitting to magazines, websites, or contests. You can also consider self-publishing or seeking traditional publishing opportunities.
  • Build Your Network: Connect with other writers, editors, and readers through social media, writing groups, and events to learn and gain support.
  • Stay Persistent: Writing and publishing can be challenging, but dedication and patience are key to success. Keep refining your work and sharing your voice.

Formal Education
Formal education can be helpful but is not always required to become an author. Many authors pursue degrees in fields like English, creative writing, journalism, or communications to build strong writing and critical thinking skills. These programs often provide valuable instruction on storytelling, grammar, research, and editing.

Attending writing workshops, seminars, or obtaining certifications related to writing can also improve your craft. However, successful authors come from diverse educational backgrounds, and practical experience combined with continuous learning often plays a bigger role than formal degrees alone.

Helpful Resources
Here are some helpful resources for authors:

  • Authors Guild: A professional organization that provides legal help, contract advice, and advocates for authors’ rights.
  • Alliance of Independent Authors: Supports self-published authors with industry news, marketing tips, and best practices.
  • Writer’s Market: A comprehensive guide for finding publishers, literary agents, and submission guidelines.
  • BookBub Partners: Offers promotional tools and advertising services to help authors reach wider audiences.
  • Goodreads Author Program: Helps authors connect with readers, manage author profiles, and run book giveaways.
  • Reedsy: Provides marketing guides, editorial services, and connects authors with freelance professionals.
  • Amazon Kindle Direct Publishing: A platform for authors to publish and sell ebooks and paperbacks globally.
  • Draft2Digital: An aggregator that distributes ebooks to multiple retailers easily and efficiently.
  • IngramSpark: Offers print-on-demand and wide distribution to bookstores and libraries.
  • National Writers Union: Provides contract advice, legal support, and networking opportunities for authors.
  • Society of Authors: An organization offering contract guidance and advocacy, especially useful for international authors.
  • Book Law: Specializes in legal advice and contract review services for authors.
  • IRS Tax Resources for Authors: Offers guidance on tax deductions and self-employment income relevant to authors.