Perhaps you’ve tossed around the idea of becoming a published author but, for some reason or another, you’ve been sidetracked. Whether it’s a life event, procrastination or lack of time, something has thrown a wrench in your plans.

In this day and age, it’s becoming easier than ever to become a published author, and this holds especially true for those that work with Dorrance Publishing!

So, if you’ve finally made the decision to follow your book publishing dreams, here are three tips to keep in mind the next time your pen touches the paper.

Practice makes perfect – As the old saying goes, how do you get to Carnegie Hall? Practice, practice and did we mention practice? Could you imagine running a race without ever training? This same notion applies to writing your book. Writing requires training and pacing.

Just like anything in life, practice has the potential to make things a lot easier, and this definitely holds true for writing. So write whenever you can! Write a short story, a poem, a blog or even participate in a writer’s workshop. The main message is…simply write!

Pace also is important when it comes to writing. Just because you have an idea for a book does not mean that you have to complete it within 24 hours. Rather, take your time and find a pace that works best for you. Whether it’s a page a day, a chapter a week or whatever works for you, you decide your pace. Just remember to be as consistent as possible – all of that writing still counts as that much-needed practice!

Extra, extra, read all about it! – Reading is a very important part of the writing process. Whether you realize it or not, when reading your favorite magazine, newspaper or book, you are soaking in knowledge about the different styles of writing. Reading allows you to study the various models of what to do and what not to do with your writing. Lots of times reading is the perfect motivator which will inspire you to begin your novel.

Increase your vocabulary – Words are more than what fills the pages of your book. Words are what bring your story to life, and the right words are the nuts and bolts that hold your plot together. The better your vocabulary, the more powerful a punch your words will pack. One way to increase your vocabulary is to read (like we mentioned in the last tip), and listen. Consider yourself a sponge that will soak in all of the vocabulary you hear throughout the day. If you hear a word and aren’t sure of the meaning, look it up. Who knows, the next time you sit down to write, that word could fit perfectly in your story!

Now, it’s worth saying that having a good vocabulary doesn’t mean that you have to include a vast array of difficult and obscure words in your book. A good vocabulary is more about being able to express your thoughts and feelings in a way that your readers will understand.

These three tips, although they may seem very general, are all foundation blocks that will help you, as a writer, build your craft! So remember to practice writing and take your time, read and then read some more, and listen to the world around you!