3 Advice from Manning authors and others
Writing a technical book is a significant undertaking, and life doesn’t pause while you do it. Many authors face challenges such as balancing work, family, and personal commitments alongside their writing. This document brings together advice from experienced Manning authors and editors to help you navigate the writing process, find your voice, overcome writer’s block, and keep your chapters focused and engaging.
Advice from Manning authors
Many Manning authors have shared their insights on how to approach writing, manage time, and handle the inevitable challenges that arise.
Start writing early and don’t aim for perfection.
Barry Pollard, author of HTTP/2 in Action, advises:
> After planning, just start writing as soon as you can. Don’t worry about it being good, or even making sense—just get the words down. Ideas will start to flow and the chapter will take shape. It’s easy to procrastinate, but as soon as you start, it becomes a lot easier.
Embrace the iterative process.
TJ VanToll, author of jQuery UI in Action, says:
> Write, write, write. A first draft can be reviewed for high-level problems, structure, and continuity. There’s no point taking an hour to write a perfect introductory paragraph if it’s going to change later. You’ll have time to get things as perfect as you’d like during editing.
Manage your time effectively.