Do you have a great concept for an eBook, maybe several, but just can't get started? 5-1 Top Tips: How to Start that eBook is the third chapter of an "eBook Top Tips" series - all with the goal of helping you improve and profit from your eBook activities. Read and implement these 5 simple tips and you will be one step closer to making a start on your eBook.

5. Don't be daft - outline before you draft!

A good practice in all writing endeavours is to create an outline first. One that identifies key ideas, themes and evidence you will use to support your ideas. A bulleted list may be all that is needed. Why: So you don't waste a lot of time and effort in writing a draft that in the end presents weak arguments or a flawed approach. Try: Sharing your outline with trusted supporters for their opinions and suggestions. They may be able to identify weaknesses or suggest different approaches. It will be easier to make amendments at this stage rather than in a near complete composition.

4. Don't forget the invite - co-contributors add value!

Invite co-contributors to be a part of the eBook.s content. Why: It may add credibility and limit bias to your ideas and concepts. Try: Seeking out someone is better qualifies or an expert in the specific area you are dealing with, and ask if they would like to incorporate a section of their own or a byline.

3. Who's gonna read that - pick your target market!

The content in your eBook must be tailored to a specific audience or market - it is not going to interest everybody. So, before you write, research your market and find out who is interested in your area of expertise! Why: Today's market is saturated with information overload. Most success stories typically appeal to a niche market and solve a specific problem or concern. Try: Research, Research, Research. What are your target market interested in? What problems do they have? How does your particular expertise or experience help resolve those issues? It is worth it in the long run as the result is a more credible and valuable eBook.

2. Make a strong introduction - entice the reader!

An introduction that is interesting, identifies the problem, issue or concern being addressed and outlines the purpose of the eBook is essential! Why: Clearly, the introduction is the first section of the eBook to be read, and will be used by the reader to determine whether or not to continue reading. Try: Writing a title that grabs the readers attention. A couple of paragraphs for the intro that will intrigue or entice the reader to readon. You might also use the introduction in your sales message.

1. Keep the hard sell low - content is the core of all eBooks!

Do not use your eBook to overtly promote your products, services, brand or business. Why: You will undo the eBook's credibility and your own, if the focus is on subliminal selling rather than informing or solving. Audiences are bombarded with sales messages daily, hourly - and quickly "switch off" if they sense it coming. They may be especially peaved if they paid for the eBook. Try: Being open and honest in the introduction and the sales message as to the purpose of the eBook - and deliver on that purpose. If your eBook is an obvious promotion and sales tool from the start (and not hidden within) then readers won't feel blindsided or disgruntled.