Writing a book is a dream for many, but turning that dream into a polished, publishable manuscript can be a challenge. As someone who’s worked with countless authors, I’ve seen a few common mistakes that often hold new writers back. The good news? These can all be avoided with the right support and guidance. Here are the top 5 mistakes new authors make—and how you can steer clear of them: 1. Skipping the Planning Stage Diving into writing without a clear structure or outline can lead to a scattered, confusing manuscript. 👉 Solution: Start with a solid outline. Know your main message, key chapters, and how you want the story (or content) to flow. 2. Trying to Edit While Writing Editing and writing are two different mindsets. Doing both at once slows progress and kills creativity. 👉 Solution: Write freely first. Edit later—or better yet, let a professional (like me!) handle the editing so your ideas shine. 3. Ignoring Professional Editing Typos, grammar issues, and weak structure can make even the best ideas look unpolished. 👉 Solution: Invest in editing. A great editor doesn’t just fix errors—they elevate your entire manuscript. 4. Underestimating Book Formatting and Amazon Requirements Many new authors hit roadblocks when it comes to uploading their book to Amazon KDP. 👉 Solution: Partner with someone who understands both the creative and technical side of publishing (yes, I can help with that too!). 5. Not Thinking About the Reader Writing only from your perspective can disconnect you from your audience. 👉 Solution: Always ask: “What value does this bring to my reader?” Writing with the reader in mind makes your book more impactful. ✨ Final Thoughts Becoming a published author is a journey, and you don’t have to walk it alone. Whether you need help writing, editing, formatting, or getting your book live on Amazon, I’m here to guide you every step of the way. Let’s turn your book idea into a masterpiece—together.