Don't know where to start writing your book? Wondering how to write an introduction? Not sure what to include in your book's introduction? This is for you.
First up, this is for all my non-fiction, self-help writers. If you're writing straight memoir (as in, there's no lesson to teach, it's just your story), don't bother reading this. I'll do something for you soon.
But if you're writing self-help, a guide, something that's designed to help other people by sharing your experience, knowledge, and stories, listen up.
The Seven Essential Parts of an Introduction
There are seven essential parts of a great book introduction. They're outlined below, along with some bonus top tips for writing your introduction, including when to write it and how long it should be.
Do you have to write your introduction following this format? No! If you're already rocking your writing, go on your merry way and enjoy.
If you're stuck, though, and have no idea where to start or how to write your book introduction, this is a solid, proven guide that breaks it down for you.
Book Introduction Part 1: The Hook
The hook draws the reader in. It’s usually a surprising, curious, unusual, weird, or funny moment which you paint a picture of.
Note: Be careful with using curiosity. More than anything, the anecdote in your hook should be clear and easy to understand.
Book Introduction Part 2: I Get It
Before you can tell the reader anything, you need to reassure them they’re in the right place and should keep reading.
The best way to do this is by telling a story about their likely current situation, dreams, desires, hopes, heartbreak, or challenges. Show them you get it and understand what’s going on in their head.
Book Introduction Part 3: The Solution
Confidently tell the reader the solution to their main problem. Don’t hide it. Don’t try and evoke curiosity. Give away the secret right upfront. They will appreciate your honesty and be interested enough to keep reading.
This section should be short; you’ll get into slightly more detail in a moment, then delve into the juicy details in the main chapters.
Book Introduction Part 4: What You'll Learn
Tell them what you’re about to tell them! Use a sentence or two to describe each chapter or main lesson so they know what to expect.
When they know where you’re taking them, they’ll more easily relax into the reading experience and start trusting you.
Book Introduction Part 5: Why I'm Writing this Book
Assume your reader knows nothing about you. You must introduce yourself!
Our aim is just to establish your credibility and let them understand why they should listen to you.
Don’t get into details of your story here. There’ll be space later in the book to share your own stories.
Book Introduction Part 6: What this Book Is and Is Not
This section is where we set clear expectations. Establish what this book will and will not do, so the reader understands what they’ll get from spending time with this book.
Book Introduction Part 7: Lead Into the Next Chapter
Lure the reader into the next chapter, so they don’t put the book down and forget it. Use one sentence to one paragraph to link this conversation to the next chapter.
Additional Introduction Notes
How long should an introduction be?
There aren’t strict guidelines for “good” introduction lengths or rules for introduction word counts. However, the introduction should be shorter than your main chapters as you're easing the reader in.
Main chapters in modern self-help books usually range from 1,500 words to 3,500 words, and an introduction should be shorter than your average chapter, whatever that is for your unique book.
Bottom line? Keep it as short as possible while including all the parts listed above.
When should you write a book’s introduction?
Many people (including myself) find it easier to write the introduction last, once they have a firm understanding of what the book is and is not. Unless you feel particularly inspired, I suggest you do the same.
What do people get wrong about writing an introduction to a book?
People often try to do too much in the introduction. This is not the place to teach. It’s not where you share your full story. Keep it short. Keep it encouraging.
Your introduction has just two goals: reassure the reader they picked up the right book and get them to like you.
Everything else will come in the following chapters. If a story or argument doesn’t primarily do one of these two things, save it for later.
Good luck writing your book introduction. And remember: If it's a struggle, save it (and this guide!) for the end.
Thanks,
Liz "Let Me Introduce Myself in Seven Easy Steps" Green
Book Coach, Green Goose Writing
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