Process 1. Editorial Archives

Planning and ‘Pantsing’: How to Blend Structure and Spontaneity

Planning and pantsing are often seen as opposites, with planners carefully outlining every chapter and scene, while pantsers prefer to "fly by the seat of their pants," discovering the story as they write. However, many authors find that a hybrid approach—combining elements of both planning and pantsing—works best, offering a balance between structure and creative freedom.

From Childhood Bookworms to Indie Authors: Early Reading Habits Spark Lifelong Passion

For many authors, the love of reading starts in childhood, shaping their imaginations and fueling a lifelong passion for storytelling. As the host of the Inspirational Indie Authors podcast for the Alliance of Independent Authors, I’ve had the pleasure of asking writers from diverse backgrounds about their early lives and whether reading and writing were always part of their journey. What’s remarkable is how, no matter where they grew up or what path they initially followed, they all shared a deep connection to books from a young age.

Creating Courses from Nonfiction Books

Creating courses from nonfiction books is a growing strategy for authors to expand their reach and impact. Advances in online learning tools and platforms have made it easier for self-publishers to transform their books into engaging educational experiences, generating additional income and fostering deeper connections with readers. Success depends on a clear understanding of the new technologies and best practices that have emerged since we last covered this topic in 2017.

How to Plan Your Self-Published Book: Guidance for Plotters and Planners

There are different ways to get started when writing a book. Some authors prefer to write spontaneously, seeing how one action leads to the next as they write. These authors are often described as ‘Pantsers’ meaning they write ‘by the seat of their pants’! We’ll be covering this writing approach in a future blog. In this post we’re looking at the plotter (or ‘planner’ for non-fiction) approach, with advice provided by ALLi partner member 1106 Design.

Referencing for Non-Fiction Indie Authors: ALLi Ultimate Guide

From why citations matter, to avoiding copyright infringement, this post will give you the key information you need to apply referencing and citation techniques to your non-fiction books.

How to Plan and Release a Second Edition of Your Self-Published Book

In this post from the Alliance of Independent Authors, we are joined by guest blogger Karen Williams, bestselling book mentor, author of 10 books and a TEDx speaker. Karen shares her advice and experience on releasing a second edition of a self-published book; answering key questions and recommending what you should consider. This post focuses on non-fiction books.

Should I Copyright My Book? Your Indie Author Copyright Questions Answered

In this Alliance of Independent Authors post we'll explore some common indie author copyright questions. From whether copyrighting your work is even necessary, to whether using a trademarked name in your book is possible. If these FAQs get you thinking, you’ll find more information about ALLi’s book 150 Self-Publishing Questions Answered at the end of this post.

How to Self-Edit Your Novel: What You Can Learn from Professional Editors

Paying for an editor is a big but extremely important part of the publishing process. Today, we hear from Alliance of Independent Authors partner member Amelia Winters on what you can learn from professional editors.

The First Process of Publishing: Editing

In order to bring a book to readers and publish it, you have to follow a series of seven processes. The Alliance of Independent Authors is going to examine these processes in detail. The first process of publishing is editorial.

The Ultimate Guide to Finishing a Series

Authors, publishers and readers love series – authors because it’s easier to write each new book in the same world as the first one, publishers because it’s much easier and more profitable to market and sell a sequel to a successful book than a standalone, and readers because if they discover a series they like, they will read them all. Each new book feels like a homecoming. But as an indie author, how do you know when to call a halt to a successful series and move on? Debbie Young, who has just completed her seven-book Sophie Sayers Village Mystery series, gleans top tips on finishing a series from ALLi author members.

Planning Ahead for a Creative and Productive Year in Your Author Business: Advanced Self-Publishing Podcast With Orna Ross and Joanna Penn

Planning ahead is an important step for your author business, enabling you to make decisions about what you want to focus on as well as make time to achieve your writing and financial goals.

January 8, 2021
Howard Lovy
Business & Planning, Opinion, Podcast, Process 1. Editorial, Process 5 & 6: Marketing & Promotion, Writing

Should You Create Your Own Author Imprint? Other Questions Answered by Orna Ross and Michael La Ronn in our Member Q&A Podcast

Should authors create their own imprint? Our #AskALLi Member Q&A is hosted by Michael La Ronn and ALLi Director, Orna Ross, and this month they'll be answering this question and more.

December 18, 2020
Howard Lovy
Business & Planning, Opinion, Podcast, Process 1. Editorial, Process 2. Design & Formatting, Process 3 & 4: Production & Distribution, Process 5 & 6: Marketing & Promotion