Monday’s planning tip for authors

Authors searching for the right title for their nonfiction book should begin by making a list of the changes that readers will enjoy by reading their book. In contrast to fiction books, which are read for pleasure, nonfiction books are purchased for help solving problems or achieving goals. Thus, the titles of the best selling books in each category tend to emphasize the change they can bring their readers.

As the example to the left shows, the change and–when appropriate–the speed with which the desired change can be achieved, should be as obvious as possible. The promise of change should also be stated as conversationally  as possible.

There is little urgency in The Martha’s Vineyard Diet Detox. But, few readers can miss the promise of 21 Pounds in 21 days. Like all great titles, the change is obvious and easy to understand. Reders can relate to the goal of 21 pounds in 21 days.

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Takeaway. Start your search for the perfect book title by making a list of the specific ways that readers will benefit from your book. Identify the problems your book can help them solve, or the goals it can help them achieve. The longer the list, the easier it will be to identify the most popular goal. Then, state the primary benefit as simply and memorably as possible.

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