BecomingGolden

written by Brownie Ebal and Nakiyimba Victoria.

On January 31, 2025, we had the privilege of attending an insightful online zoom class on writing, facilitated by Keziah Elaine Ayikoru. As an experienced author, editor, and writing coach, Keziah brought a wealth of knowledge to the session, guiding aspiring writers on how to craft compelling and impactful books.

She emphasized that writing a book goes beyond just putting words on paper—it requires purpose, structure, and strategy. Here are the ten essential tips she shared to help writers navigate the journey from idea to published work.

1. Start with a Strong Why
Before you put pen to paper (or fingers to keyboard), ask yourself: Why am I writing this book? Your writing should align with your overall purpose and life’s work. A book is a tool to help you
achieve your goals, whether personal, professional, or creative. Without a clear reason for writing, it is easy to lose direction and motivation.

2. Have a Strong Overall Theme
A unifying theme ties everything together and ensures coherence. As you write, constantly ask yourself: Does this fit within my theme? If not, rework it. Whether you are writing a memoir, self-help book, or novel, a clear theme makes your book more relatable and engaging. Readers should easily understand what your book is about and how it can benefit them.

3. Know Your Target Market
Whom are you writing for? Having a specific audience in mind shapes your writing style, content, and marketing strategy. Just like in business, defining your main target audience helps you connect with the right readers. If your book tries to speak to everyone, it might end up resonating with no one.

4. Understand Your Genre
Where does your book fit? Whether it is fiction, non-fiction, self-help, or poetry, knowing your genre helps you structure your writing appropriately. Study similar books in your category to learn best practices and ensure your book meets reader expectations. On word count, Keziah noted that different genres have different expectations, but 25,000 to 30,000 words is a solid
range for most books.

5. Tell Great Stories and Use Examples
Stories and examples make your writing more engaging, relatable, and memorable. Regardless of your book’s genre, weaving in narratives helps illustrate key points and connect with your readers on an emotional level. Keziah also cautioned against relying on AI to write the book but
encouraged using it to enhance, edit, and refine content.

6. Use a Comprehensive Outline
A well-structured outline serves as your roadmap, preventing writer’s block and keeping your ideas organized. The more detailed your outline, the easier it will be to write your book efficiently. Keziah also addressed a common question about book formats—whether to publish a physical book, eBook, or audiobook. She emphasized that the first priority should be writing a
strong book. A well-written book can later be adapted into any format.

7. Stick to a Writing Schedule

Time flies, and without a clear writing plan, it is easy to procrastinate. Establish a consistent writing routine to make steady progress. The faster you complete your first draft the sooner you can refine and improve it. While apps like Google Docs make it possible to write a book entirely
on a phone, using a computer is preferable for editing and submission.

8. Have an Accountability Partner or Group
Writing can be a lonely process, but having someone to keep you accountable helps you stay on track. Whether it is a writing coach, a peer group, or a mentor, accountability can push you to meet your deadlines and stay committed to your goal.

9. Prioritize Your Title and Book Cover
Your book’s title and cover are the first things potential readers notice. A compelling title gives insight into what the book is about, while an eye-catching cover makes it stand out. If you are not an established author, avoid vague or overly complex titles—keep it clear and impactful.

10. Work with Professionals
Even if you are on a budget, do not skip professional help. Editors, designers, and writing coaches can elevate the quality of your book. When choosing an editor or designer, check their track record, review books they have worked on, and have conversations to ensure they align with your vision. Marketing is another critical area, and its budget varies depending on strategy. Planning in advance helps determine costs and the best approach.

Bonus Tip: Give Your Project Sufficient Time
Rushing the process can lead to mistakes. Allow ample time for writing, editing, and designing your book. Also, respect the time professionals need to do their work properly.

In conclusion, writing a book is not just about putting words on a page—it is about clarity, consistency, and commitment. With a strong purpose, structured approach, and the right support, you can create a book that resonates, inspires, and makes an impact.

For more information, please check out @WordWeaverAfrica (Facebook, TikTok, and
Instagram) or reach out to Keziah at +256 759 725420 / +256 783 949565.