Writing a book that engages readers and creates a presence in a saturated world of authors is easier said than done. It is a lengthy process that requires a lot of hard work and time. However, wouldn’t all the hard work be worth it if your book becomes a bestseller?
Becoming the author of a best-selling book is not all about what you write about and how groundbreaking the information being provided is. The book you write must also be engaging for the readers to create an unforgettable experience.
Here are some of the best tips you need to increase the readability.
1. Create a Book Hook
The first impression you make in the eyes of your audience matters the most. Creating a book hook for your ideal audience increases the chances of your readers from your audience being lured into your book to take a deeper and closer look.
You can look at book hook examples to see how you can also craft an ideal book hook that helps your ideal reader find an instant connection.
2. Write Concisely
Even the most avid readers can agree that reading log manuscripts and complex jargon can make it so much harder for one to stay engaged. Anyone who is aiming for their text to be more readable must write concisely.
You can make the text more concise by using simple language, short sentences, and avoiding unnecessary usage of jargon. Your editor can also help you in making your text more concise for added readability.
3. Implement the Iceberg Theory
Every author comes across Hemingway and his teachings at least once in their career. His teachings continue to benefit authors everywhere, even after more than a century of his passing away. Have you ever wondered what makes him so special?
Well, his Iceberg Theory is one of many such teachings that make his work memorable for its readability. In this theory, Hemingway suggested that the author must only give readers a bit of the most attractive part of the information to the reader in the beginning.
This bit must be able to engage an ideal reader. Once the tip of the iceberg lures a reader in, you can unravel the rest of this mass to them as they read your work cover to cover.
4. Rethink Your Opening
The way you start your book matters a lot. The first few lines and paragraphs decide whether the reader will add your book to the cart or move to the next book with an attractive cover. You do not want a weak opening to be the reason for your work being overlooked.
You must revise your opening line again and again before it is finalized. Think of it as one of the most important shots you will make to lure in the reader.
5. Make Your Characters Relatable
Every author wants their characters to be empathized with, and it is not surprising that readers also want the same. The readers want to leave their reality for a bit and live in the fictional world of the book being read for some time. Books offer temporary solace from reality to the readers.
However, make sure that you do not make your plot line predictable for your audience in the efforts to make your characters more relatable. You will need to find a perfect balance.
6. Improve Your Plot
A perfect plot is not built overnight. Adding twists to your story and developing a character’s storyline can be the most complex things about being an author. It all starts with a good plot, and that is where your focus must lie.
Creating an interesting plot means you must also have equally engaging sub-plots to add depth to your storyline.
7. Eradicate Predictability
If you are having a hard time ensuring the novelty of your work, you are not alone. After all, there are millions of books out there. How does one make their work unique and something that has never been read by your audience before?
While no work may be completely unique, the best you can do is fight predictability. For example, even if your characters face predictable troubles, you add to the uniqueness of your work by creating plot twists in your writing.
8. Check Your Facts
No one ever wants to read a work from an author who is known to be negligent and careless with facts. Being an author is not all about writing what your heart deems readable. This job also requires you to be fair with your audience by ensuring that they are not misled by false information.
Responsible writers spend several days fact-checking their manuscripts for factual inconsistencies. This practice can prevent potential legal issues and embarrassment. Additionally, it can prevent readers from forming negative opinions before reading your work.
9. Seek Feedback
Whether you have been writing for years or have just set on the path to becoming an author, keeping an open mind for feedback and constructive feedback is key to growing in your profession. You can hone your skills and connect with your readers.
You can ask your friends, family members, and editors for their feedback. Of course, you can also engage with your readers on your author’s website to learn more about their preferences and opinions.
This way, you will be able to curate your text according to the needs of your target audience and also make them feel valued.
10. Use a Readable Font
First glances are very important for how your book will be perceived by the readers. While a fancy font may make a great first impression, it may not be easy to read once the reader delves into your work. You do not want the reader to be confused by trying to differentiate between two alphabets.
Therefore, it is best to choose a readable font that is comfortable for the reader’s eyes. This way, your reader will only focus on the content of your book rather than spending time deciphering each alphabet.
