The Book Proposal Template for Indie Writers
Great books start with a great book proposal. If you’ve ever wondered why so many authors seeking a publishing deal agonize over creating the perfect proposal, it’s because traditional publishers won’t give them the time of day without one.
But what if you have no interest in going traditional? No need for a proposal then, right?
Think again.
Book proposals are an excellent and under-utilized guiding light for self-publishing writers. What makes them so powerful? They get you thinking about your target audience before you write—what’s in it for your readers? How are you going to find them? How are you going to make them want your book?
You don’t need to have all the answers, nor do you need to worry over the questions. But the earlier you begin to consider your book’s building blocks and your marketing strategy, the better off you’ll be down the road.
Book Proposal ➡️ Stronger Writing ➡️ Higher Chance of Success
To help you put together a great book proposal, we’ve created an easy-to-follow template for writers of fiction, non-fiction, and children’s books. Whether you’re in the idea phase or you’re almost finished your first draft, your proposal will be a helpful signpost throughout the writing and revision processes, and well into publishing.
Simply enter your information below to be sent three versions of the template: a digital PDF you can complete on your computer; a printable version you can fill in by hand; and a filled-in “best practice” version you can use for inspiration.
Remember: You needn’t submit this proposal to publishers. This document is yours and yours alone. It exists to keep you focused on what’s most important: creating a great book that you’ll be proud to sign come publication.