Free resources for non-fiction writers

I’ve collected together some recommendations on articles and books that are useful to non-fiction writers, particularly those self-publishing. I’ve also created some free guides and resources to help you along on your publishing journey!

Click a button to jump straight to that section or scroll to browse through all the guides, articles, cheat sheets and more.

If there’s some information you’d love to see here, get in touch and let me know.

Articles about writing, editing and self-publishing for non-fiction authors

• Writers, if you are ever unsure about how a professional editor should and can help you make your text the best possible it can be then read this CIEP article ‘Imagine… an editor” by David Crystal.
• Particularly useful for non-fiction writers, this article – ‘Cognitive Load Theory’ from Psychologist World – explains cognitive load theory and how it relates to learning. If you’re writing any non-fiction text, understanding the concept of cognitive load is a must so you can reduce the strain for your reader.
• At Pick Up Your Pen – a website offering coaching for writers – find 14 techniques, tips and tricks to help you sit down and write, even if you’re not in the mood.

Articles from JFPeditorial.com about non-fiction writing and editing, self-publishing and more

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  Specialist editors: what are the benefits compared with a generalist editor?
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  How to choose an editor for your nonfiction book
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  Editor: Do I really need one for my nonfiction book?
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  Traditional v self-publishing: what’s the difference?
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  eBook formats and ePublishing platforms – things you need to know
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  Breaking down the self-publishing process

Books about writing, editing and self-publishing for non-fiction authors

• How to Write Non-Fiction by Joanna Penn helps you turn your knowledge into words. She helps readers combat imposter syndrome and shows the best techniques for getting started. It covers the business models of non-fiction writing, how to tackle the research phase, tips for the writing and editing stages, and information about publishing, production and book marketing.
• This Book Means Business by Alison Jones is specifically useful for all those non-fiction writers who are penning a book as a means of developing their business. As covered in my article ‘Writing a book as a business marketing tool’, this is an increasingly popular tactic for savvy business owners looking to dominate their niche or specialism.
• Writing Successful Self-Help & How-to Books by Jean Marie Stine isn’t just for writers in the self-help genre. The content covered here is useful for any non-fiction writers sharing their expertise through tutorials or instruction-style text. The author gives step-by-step advice, and the introduction is a lesson itself on how to write a great opener!

Cheat sheet and checklists for non-fiction writers and indie authors

Guides and templates