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Elements of a Successful Nonfiction Book Proposal

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2016-03-26 21:42:38
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To get your nonfiction book published, put together a strong proposal. Use the proposal to "sell" your book to potential literary agents, editors, and publishers. Make sure your proposal is as polished as possible by including the following:

  • Cover page: Contains the title, author byline, and contact information

  • Proposal contents: Gives an overview of the entire proposal

  • The hook: Offers a brief, tantalizing look at what's unique about the book

  • The market: Identifies the book's specific audience and how to reach it

  • About the book: Gives a detailed description of the book including special features and benefits

  • The competition: Shows how your book fills a void in the market

  • About the author: Presents you in the best possible light

  • Table of contents: Is the blueprint of your book

  • Chapter summaries and sample chapter: Highlight important components and showcase your writing

  • Production specifications: Details the length, format, illustrations, and delivery date

  • Promotion and marketing: Outlines a plan for selling your book

  • Attachments: Includes newspaper and magazine clippings on you or your book's topic

About This Article

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About the book author:

Sarah Parsons Zackheim has worked at William Morrow, Doubleday, and New York Times Books. She is the author or coauthor of three books, including Dress Your House For Success.

Sarah Parsons Zackheim has worked at William Morrow, Doubleday, and New York Times Books. She is the author or coauthor of three books, including Dress Your House For Success.