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How to Write a Bestselling Book

How do you write a bestselling book? You should follow your instincts and be inspired when writing a book—but you should also think about marketing your book before you start writing it. This article explores the seven steps to writing a bestselling book, which include: brainstorming book ideas; audience, competition, and trend research, and writing the book. This article is part of a series about how to become a bestselling author, written by a former literary agent who’s helped 400+ authors get literary agents and/or traditional publishers.

How do you write a bestselling book? You don’t necessarily need to be an exceptional writer. You need an unique and interesting premise, possibly one that taps into current cultural and/or publishing trends. A memorable title can help, as can an impressive writing platform or profile, but a strong author platform isn’t always required.

How Do You Write a Bestselling Book?

Writing a bestselling book is the dream of many authors, but crafting a story that captures the attention of millions requires more than just putting words on a page. It takes creativity, strategic planning, and a deep understanding of your audience and the market. While there’s no guaranteed formula for success, there are essential steps you can take to increase your chances of writing a bestseller. Here’s how.

1. Brainstorm Book Ideas

Every bestselling book begins with a compelling idea that resonates with readers. Your concept should be:

• Original Yet Familiar: A fresh take on the topic.
• Authentic: Something you’re more passionate and knowledgeable about than most people, so your contribution to the topic or genre is more likely to stand out and interest readers. Bestselling authors align their work with reader interests and market trends while maintaining originality.
• Commercial Appeal: A topic many people are interested in.
• Purpose: What do you want your book to achieve? Is it to entertain, inform, and/or inspire?
• Easy to Summarize: A clear, concise premise that grabs attention and makes readers want to know more
• Cultural Relevance: Not all books need to align with current events or societal conversations, but those that do often gain traction through their timeliness.
• Emotionally Engaging: Not all books need make readers feel things or evoke strong emotions—excitement, fear, love, or inspiration—but those that do are more likley to stick with readers.

2. Research Your Audience

Understanding your audience is crucial to craft a book that resonates and sells well. Here are several areas to consider when researching your audience with the goal of writing a bestselling book:

• Demographics: Research information about your genre’s readership, such as age, gender, and location—as well as the genres, tropes, and themes they enjoy.
• Communities: Join genre-specific forums and online communities to see what your target audience is discussing.
• Monitor Social Media: Follow hashtags or accounts related to your book’s topic or genre.
• Participate in Book Clubs: Virtual or local book clubs can provide insights into what readers enjoy and why.
• Surveys: Use tools like Google Forms or SurveyMonkey to gather information about reader preferences and habits.
• Polls: Use Instagram Stories, Twitter, or Facebook to quickly gauge interest in specific topics or themes.
• Talk to Readers: Ask friends, family, or members of writing groups what they like to read and why.
• Engage with BookTok and Bookstagram: These platforms often showcase trends and emerging reader preferences.
• SEO: Do keyword research using tools like Google Keyword Planner or Ubersuggest to identify trending topics in your niche.
• Writing Conferences: Engage with readers and writers in your genre to gather direct feedback.

3. Research Comparable Titles and Trends

Keeping an eye on what’s popular is a critical step when writing a bestselling book:

• Track Bestseller Lists: Regularly review bestseller lists to identify what’s currently popular.
• Read Bestsellers in Your Genre: Examine bestselling books in your genre to identify common themes, character types, and tropes that appeal to readers.
• Study Reviews: Check reviews on platforms like Amazon or Goodreads to learn what readers loved or disliked about similar titles.
• Explore Blurbs: Pay attention to how successful books are marketed and the promises made in their blurbs.
• Read Industry Reports: Keep up with publishing trends through reports from organizations like the Association of American Publishers (AAP).
• Use Book Industry Data: Platforms like NPD BookScan and Bowker offer sales data and demographic trends.
• Visit Libraries and Bookstores: Note which books are most checked out or prominently displayed in your genre.
• Track Book Bloggers and Reviewers: See what books they are promoting and what appeals to their followers.
• Attend Book Fairs: Observe which titles are generating buzz and attracting crowds.

4. Come Up with a Catchy Title

A book title is often the first impression readers get of your work. A catchy title can make the difference between a book that becomes a bestseller and one that gets overlooked. A great title should intrigue, resonate with your target audience, and convey the essence of your message or story. Here’s how to craft a memorable and effective book title:

• Analyze Bestsellers: Look at top-selling books in your genre to identify title patterns and trends.
• Reflect Your Genre: Your title should align with your book’s genre, whether it’s a thrilling mystery, a heartwarming romance, or an informative nonfiction guide.
• Use Genre-Specific Keywords: Incorporate terms that your audience associates with your genre (e.g., “Secrets,” “Chronicles,” “Guide,” or “Reckoning”).
• Keep It Short and Memorable: Short titles are easier to remember and fit better on book covers. Consider one to five words. Many bestsellers have concise titles.
• Pose a Question: Titles that hint at mystery or provoke curiosity can draw readers in.
• Use Contrasts or Juxtaposition: Pairing unexpected elements can create intrigue. Example: Big Little Lies.
• Capture the Core Message: Your title should hint at the book’s main idea or focus. Example: Atomic Habits (self-help).
• Reflect the Emotional Tone: Choose words that convey the mood of your book. Example: The Light We Lost (romance).
• Evoke Emotion: Words that stir curiosity, fear, joy, or nostalgia can make your title compelling.
• Be Specific: Concrete words often resonate more than abstract ones. Example: The House on Mango Street (fiction).
• Incorporate Symbolism: Use metaphors or vivid imagery that align with your story’s theme.
• Draw on Familiar Phrases: Alter well-known sayings or idioms to fit your book.
• Include Numbers or Lists: Readers often find numbered titles intriguing and easy to grasp, such as The 5 Love Languages or Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo.
• Alliteration and Rhythm: Titles with alliteration or a pleasing rhythm such as Pride and Prejudice are more memorable.
• Repetition: This can add a lyrical quality. Example: Eat, Pray, Love (memoir).
• Use a Key Phrase or Line from Your Book: A memorable line or recurring element in your book can inspire the title.
  
• Highlight a Character or Place: Center your title on an important name, location, or element like Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone.
• Say It Out Loud: Ensure the title is easy to pronounce and sounds appealing when spoken.

5. Outline the Book

Outlining your bestselling book will help you organize ideas, develop a clear structure, and maintain focus while writing. Whether you’re book is fiction or nonfiction, an effective outline will guide your creative process and ensure your book is cohesive. Here’s a step-by-step guide to outlining your book:

• Core Idea: If you haven’t already done so, pinpoint the central purpose, message, or theme of your book.
• Choose an Outline Structure:
  • Fiction: Common structures include the three-act structure, the Hero’s Journey, or a chapter-by-chapter outline.
  • Nonfiction: Organize content logically, such as by topics, steps, or a chronological timeline.
• Break Your Book into Sections:
  • Fiction: Divide your story into acts (beginning, middle, and end) or sections. Identify major plot points (inciting incident, climax, resolution).
  • Nonfiction: Outline key chapters or sections. Group related ideas together under headings and subheadings. Make sure you don’t just have a strong beginning, but a solid middle and end.
• Brainstorm: Write down every idea, character, theme, or concept you have for the book. Don’t worry about organization at this stage; just get your thoughts on paper. Use tools like mind maps, sticky notes, or brainstorming apps to visualize connections.
• Write Chapter Summaries: Write a brief summary (2–3 sentences) for each chapter or section.
  • Fiction: Summarize what happens, who’s involved, and how it advances the story.
  • Nonfiction: Highlight the main topic and key points covered.
• Flesh Out Each Section: Add details for each section, chapter, or act:
  • Fiction:
    • Key scenes, events, and turning points.
    • Character arcs, conflicts, and resolutions.
    • Setting details and world-building elements.
  • Nonfiction:
    • • Main points, examples, and anecdotes.
      • Research findings or data to include.
      • Actionable takeaways or lessons.
• Incorporate Details: Add specific elements to your outline to make it richer:
  • Fiction:
    • Character motivations and backstories.
    • Themes or symbols that recur throughout the story.
    • Dialogue snippets or key quotes.
  • Nonfiction:
    • Case studies, examples, or stories to support your points.
    • Visuals like charts or diagrams (if applicable).
• Refine Your Outline: Review your outline for:
  • Logical Flow: Ensure each section connects naturally to the next.
  • Balance: Check that your outline isn’t too heavily weighted toward one section.
  • Gaps: Identify any missing information or plot holes. Rearrange sections or chapters as needed for clarity and impact.
• Use Outline Tools
  • Digital Tools:
    • Scrivener: A powerful writing tool with built-in outlining features.
    • Evernote or Notion: Great for organizing ideas and drafts.
    • Microsoft Word or Google Docs: Simple templates for traditional outlines.
  • Physical Tools:
    • Index Cards: Write one scene or idea per card and arrange them on a board.
    • Notebooks: Keep a running list of your chapters and ideas.
• Stay Flexible
  • Remember, your outline is a guide, not a rigid rulebook.
  • Allow room for creativity and unexpected ideas as you write.
  • Update and adjust your outline asour book evolves.

6. Write a Quality Book

Writing a bestselling book requires a blend of creativity, planning, and dedication. Whether you’re crafting fiction or nonfiction, a quality book captivates readers, delivers value, and leaves a lasting impression.

• Hook Your Readers: Start with a compelling opening that grabs attention.
• Engaging Prose: Use language that is vivid and expressive without being overly complicated.
• Emotional Impact: Eevoke strong emotions—whether laughter, tears, or fear—are often more memorable.
• Clarity: Avoid unnecessary jargon or overly complex sentences.
• Be Unpredicatable: Say unique things in unique ways.
• Style: Make sure your style is appropriate for your genre, as well as your audience: age, education, gender, etc.
• Stay Focused: Avoid straying from your central theme or plot.
• Show, Don’t Tell:
  • Fiction: Use vivid descriptions and dialogue to reveal character emotions and actions.
  • Nonfiction: Use anecdotes and examples to illustrate key points.
• Craft Memorable Themes and Characters
  • Fiction:
    • Create complex, relatable characters with clear goals, flaws, and growth arcs.
    • Weave in universal themes that connect emotionally with readers.
    • Characters are the heart of any story, and bestsellers often feature memorable, relatable protagonists. To create strong characters:
    • Make Them Multi-Dimensional: Give your characters flaws, desires, and growth arcs.
    • Write Realistic Dialogue: Ensure your characters speak and act in ways that feel authentic.
    • Evoke Empathy: Readers should care deeply about what happens to your characters.
    • When readers form an emotional connection with your characters, they’re more likely to recommend your book to others.
  • Nonfiction:
    • Tell Stories: Use real-life anecdotes or case studies to illustrate your points and keep readers interested.
    • Incorporate Visuals: Include charts, diagrams, or photos to complement your text and enhance understanding.
    • Offer Practical Advice: Give readers clear steps or strategies they can implement immediately.
    • Include Checklists or Exercises: Encourage readers to engage actively with your material.
    • Focus on Outcomes: Emphasize how your advice will lead to tangible benefits.
    • Use Credible Sources: Support your arguments with data, research, or expert opinions.
    • Cite References: Include a bibliography or notes section to give readers confidence in your work.
    • Acknowledge Limitations: Be transparent about areas where further research or debate exists.
• Pacing
  • Fiction:
    • Balance action and introspection to maintain reader interest.
    • Build tension and stakes to keep the story moving.
  • Nonfiction:
    • Mix informative content and explanations with examples, personal insights, humor, thought-provoking questions, and actionable advice to maintain reader interest.
    • Avoid information overload.
• Consistency: Keep the voice and tone consistent throughout the book.
• Satisfying Resolution: Make sure your book ends as well as it begins.
• Fact-Check: Ensure all data and references in nonfiction are accurate.
• Edit Ruthlessly: Editing is where good books become bestselling books.
  • Cut unnecessary words, tighten sentences, and clarify ideas.
  • Check for consistency in tone, pacing, and character development.
  • Developmental Editing: Focus on big-picture elements like plot, pacing, and character development.
  • Line Editing: Refine sentence structure and word choice for maximum impact.
  • Proofreading: Eliminate grammar, spelling, and punctuation errors.
• Format and Structure with Care
  • Use Clear Formatting:
    • Fiction: Break chapters into manageable scenes or sections.
    • Nonfiction: Include a Table of Contents, headings, bullet points, and visuals to enhance readability.
• Extras
  • Acknowledgments: Thank those who contributed to your book’s success.
    • Fiction:
      • Include maps, glossaries, or timelines if relevant to your story.
    • Nonfiction:
      • Add resources, references, or summaries to provide added value.

7. Get Your Book Evaluated

Increase your chances of writing a bestselling book by getting feedback and professional support:

• Beta Readers: Test your ideas and writing with beta reades to gauge their appeal and effectiveness.
  • Family
  • Friends
  • Other writers
• Get Professional Feedback: Hiring a publishing professional(s) is essential to refine your writing, especially if your goal is to write a bestselling book.
  • Hire a developmental editor for big-picture feedback.
  • Use a line editor to refine sentence structure and word choice.
  • Work with a copyeditor or proofreader for grammar, spelling, punctuation, and formatting.

Conclusion – How to Write a Bestselling Book

Writing a bestselling book is a journey that blends creativity with strategy. It starts with crafting a unique and marketable concept, understanding your audience, and polishing your manuscript to perfection. And, now that you’ve read “How to Write a Bestselling Book?” click here for the next article about becoming a bestselling author, “What Is a Platform or Profile in Writing?”

The Bestselling Author, LLC

Established in 2011, The Bestselling Author has helped 400+ authors get literary agents and/or traditional publishers. Writers who’ve worked with Literary Agent Undercover, a division of The Bestselling Author, have gotten six-figure book deals; been on the New York Times bestseller list; had their books adapted for TV, stage, and feature film; had their work licensed in 40+ countries; and sold many millions of books.

Notable authors include Nelson Johnson, author of Boardwalk Empire, which Martin Scorsese produced for HBO; Leslie Lehr, author of A Boob’s Life, which is currently being adapted for an HBO Max TV series by Salma Hayek; and Scott LeRette, author of The Unbreakable Boy, which was published by Thomas Nelson and is now a major motion picture by Lionsgate starring Patricia Heaton, Zachary Levi, and Amy Acker.

The founder of The Bestselling Author, Mark Malatesta, is a former literary agent, literary agency owner, AAR member, and Marketing & Licensing Manager for the gift and book publisher Blue Mountain Arts. He is now an author coach and consultant. Click here to see Mark Malatesta reviews.