Introduction
Speaking from experience, both as a writer and as a publishing professional, I’ve seen many aspiring authors struggle to organize their thoughts and create a solid structure for their books…
…leading to writer's block, frustrating attempts, and ultimately abandoned projects.
Many of the coaches, consultants, and speakers we work with are seeking to increase their authority and gain influence by communicating through their content, and the best way to start that journey is with a book.
If you or anyone you know find yourself in the same camp, then we have a gift for you.
This simple formula for creating a book outline will drastically decrease your procrastination and get you to start writing your manuscript.
The best part? It's easy to implement.
5-3-1 Formula for Writing a Killer Non-Fiction Book Outline.
Here's how it works:
Create 5 Main sections for your book
Each section should have 3 key points
For each point, share 1 compelling story or example
Continue reading to understand exactly how to get started!
1. Identify Your 5 Main Sections
Your book's main sections are its backbone. They provide structure and flow.
Action Step: Brainstorm 5 main topics that cover your book's core message.
For example, if you're writing a book on effective public speaking, your sections might be:
Overcoming stage fright
Crafting a compelling message
Engaging your audience
Using body language effectively
Mastering Q&A sessions
Pro tip: Use sticky notes to easily rearrange your sections until you find the best order.
2. Develop 3 Key Points for Each Section
Keep it readable. All that's needed are three key points for each section. (You’re not writing War and Peace!)
Action Step: For each main section, come up with 3 essential ideas or concepts that you consider core.
Common examples for the "Overcoming stage fright" section:
Understanding the root causes of fear
Practical relaxation techniques
Reframing negative thoughts
Remember: Keep your key points focused and relevant to your target audience.
3. Choose 1 Compelling Story or Example per Point.
Stories and examples make your manuscript authentic, relatable, memorable, and, most importantly, unique.
Action Step: make sure to include: an anecdote, conversation, experience case study, or illustration whenever relevant.
Best practices:
Use a mix of personal experiences and well-known examples
keep your stories to the point and make sure they support your message
Consider including client success stories (with permission)
4. Create a Detailed Outline
Now that you have your structure, it's time to create your first outline. (there will be many versions of this, so get your initial thoughts down first).
Action Step: Expand on each key point with subheadings and brief descriptions.
Benefits:
Provides a clear roadmap for writing
Helps identify gaps in your content
Makes the writing process feel less overwhelming
5. Review and Refine
Review, Share, Review
Action Step: This is a living document, Treat it that way.
These tips should help:
Find a style and be consistent with the flow of your chapters
Balance your content
Write shorter chapters and shorter paragraphs (this is the current trend)
WARNING:
Find an experienced professional book coach or development editor to review your outline before finishing your manuscript.
The last thing you want to is redo the whole book.
Get started with this quick guide and show it to a specialist - they will appreciate having a foundation and some insight into how you want to present your content.
Putting Everything Together
The 5-3-1 Formula gives you a solid foundation for your non-fiction book, but it’s not required. It’s still your book, so have fun doing it.
5 main sections 3 key points per section 1 compelling story or example per point
Alternative Approach: The 3-7-1 Method
Just to make it a little more stressful because now you have to choose, Some authors prefer using the 3-7-1 method. This approach works well for shorter books or specific topics.
3 Main sections of your book
7 Key points for each section
1 Compelling story or example per point
Try both methods to see which one feels more for what you have to say.
Action Step:
Stop procrastinating! Create your outline this week using one of the number formulas above.
Share your outline writing experience by sending me a direct message or commenting with an outline.
I’d love to see the results.
P.S. If you are still finding it difficult to plan and/or write your killer non-fiction book, then book a time to speak with our team here.
We provide expert guidance throughout the entire book creation process at incredibly accessible prices.
"Digital Content Creators recently took the manuscript of my second novel and rapidly turned it into a print and eBook. I used their services because they did such a fine job on my first novel. Professional, responsive, and helpful, their work is superb and affordable. They have my highest recommendation. I will use them again." - James H. Drescher, Esq., Author of "Glasby's Fortune" and "Glasby's Pirates.
Here's how it works:
1. Book Production: Our expert team ensures your book is professional, attractive, and competitive. We handle everything from design to distribution, delivering on time and within budget. With rapid turnaround and access to major sales platforms, DCC transforms your manuscript into a market-ready masterpiece. Let us bring your vision to life!
2. eLearning Course Development: Turn your expertise into powerful eLearning courses that scale your business and generate passive income. Our instructional and graphic designers convert your knowledge into engaging, interactive courses. We create custom courses that resonate with learners and deliver learning outcomes. Let DCC bring your knowledge to life!
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