What Author Learning Center resources do you recommend for someone that is just getting started?

10 Apr 2025

Question: What Author Learning Center resources do you recommend for someone that is just getting started?

Answer:

Writing a great book and getting it into the hands of readers can be a long, challenging journey. The writing process itself can be lonely and daunting, and with so many options for publishing, distribution, and marketing, it’s easy to feel confused and overwhelmed.

The Author Learning Center (ALC) understands these challenges and wants you to know you are not alone at any point in your journey! Our one-of-kind website is designed to educate, motivate, and support you as you follow your path to becoming a published author.

In honor of our 100th “Ask Sheila” Q&A blog post, we are sharing 100 valuable Author Learning Center resources to help you start reaching your goals! These resources are divided into the topics of Writing, Editing, Publishing, and Marketing, and include recorded webinars, articles, common questions and answers from the Ask Keith/Ask Sheila blog, and video interviews.

Writing

How to Write a Book in 2025: A 10-Step Guide
In this article, we break down the writing process into ten, manageable steps to make it less daunting and more achievable.
Book in a Year Program
This year-long, members-only program is designed to walk you through every step of writing, editing, publishing, and marketing a book—with as little confusion and overwhelm as possible. With hours of in-depth workshops, a private author community, and a proven structure with deadlines for every step, you’ll have everything you need to go from an aspiring writer to a published author.
Book Writing Terms You Should Know
In this article, we’ve curated a glossary of common terms with brief definitions and links to more information, to help you navigate your way on your writing journey.
Ask Sheila: I have a great idea for a book but don’t know how to begin writing. Where should I start?
In this blog post, Sheila shares four steps authors can take to get a better understanding of their target readers, amount of research and outlining needed, and how to set SMART goals.
7 Things Every Writer Needs to Become an Author
In this recorded webinar, Author Learning Center President Keith Ogorek shares seven key things he has learned from working with hundreds of writers and authors, so that you don’t end up with an unfinished manuscript instead a copy of your book.
Ask Sheila: What are some important things to consider before I start writing my book?
In this blog post, Sheila shares three key things you need to consider about your book and audience before you begin to write.
The Benefits of Outlining a Book Before You Begin Writing
In this collection of interviews, prolific authors such as R.L. Stine, along with other industry experts, weigh in on the benefits of and approaches to outlining a book.
What is “Save the Cat”, and how can I use it to outline my story?
In this blog post, Sheila explains the “Save the Cat” method of planning a story, and how a story’s structure directly affects the way the plot unfolds and how the characters, conflicts, and world are introduced to the reader.
A Deep Dive into the Value of Research for both Nonfiction and Fiction
In this recorded webinar, award-winning writer Jeanne Lyet Gassman reviews how to conduct research, how to apply your research to your story or narrative, when you need to research, and how you can expand its benefits for your writing career.
Word Count by Genre: How Long Should a Book Be?
In this article, we explain the importance of word count recommendations by genre, and provide a breakdown of word counts for various genres and subgenres.
Finish that Book - Even When Life Gets in the Way
In this recorded webinar, bestselling author of over 70 books, Allie Pleiter, shares how to set goals and deadlines that reflect your personal writing style and speed, and how to implement her Chunky Method of time management.
10 Tips for Overcoming Writer’s Block
In this article, we share ten battle-tested methods for busting creative roadblocks experienced by many writers.
Systems for Success: How to Create Your Own Personal Writing System
In this recorded webinar, bestselling author, editor, and book coach Jennifer Crosswhite will show you how to create a plan that you can use every time you sit down to write, so you can make the best use of your writing time.
Embrace the Suck: A Guide to Surviving the First Draft
In this recorded webinar, award-winning author and writing coach C.R. Rowenson talks through the importance of the first draft, and reviews several tested methods to make the process easier.
Ask Sheila: What does it mean when writers are told, “show, don’t tell”, and how can this technique be used in storytelling?
In this blog post, Sheila explains what “show, don’t tell” means, and how writers can use this technique to fully immerse readers in their stories.
How to Improve Your Writing Skills in 6 Easy Steps
In this article, we share six ways authors can improve their craft, get a better understanding of the book market, and garner valuable feedback.
The 5 Elements of Plot
In this recorded webinar, award-winning writer Jeanne Lyet Gassman reviews the key elements of plot, and how to write a fiction story or true story that captures readers.
Point of View: The What, How and Why of Your Story’s Perspective
In this recorded webinar, editor Helga Schier explores the pros and cons of common narrative points of view and how to avoid common pitfalls and traps.
Creating a Vivid World that Readers Want to Live In
In this recorded webinar, bestselling author Russell Nohelty shows you the fundamental elements of setting and world-building, and how to integrate them into your story while keeping the action moving forward.
How to Write a Fiction Series
In this recorded webinar, bestselling author Allie Pleiter, who has written over 70 books including eight series for both traditional and independent publishing, shares the secrets of crafting a great series.
How to Write and Illustrate a Children’s Book
In this recorded webinar, bestselling children’s author Sheri Fink discusses how you can go from simply having an idea, to believing in that idea and taking the next step of starting your children’s book.
Crafting an Engaging Memoir
In this recorded webinar, award-winning author Jeanne Lyet Gassman reviews the basics of the memoir genre, how to structure your story, how to tackle incomplete memories, liability concerns, and more.
Adding Characters (and Stories) to Your Nonfiction Book
In this recorded webinar, book coach Cathy Fyock explores the critical role that stories and characters play in engaging readers and enhancing your nonfiction narrative.
Ask Sheila: What is fair use of quotations by famous people and using brand names in the content of a novel? I know song lyrics and poetry lines require copyright permissions.
In this blog post, Sheila explains copyright law, the differences between fair use and public domain, and when you can use brand names, celebrity names, or the names of historical figures in your book.
Writing Resources
In this list of helpful writing resources, we include links to writing groups, writing software, conferences and contests, and writing tools.

Editing
Ask Keith: How can I get a review of a couple chapters of my book so that I know I am on the right track?
In this blog post, Keith shares five suggestions for getting valuable feedback on your book manuscript, no matter where you are at in the writing process.
First Chapter Feedback Forums
These member-only forums allow you to post your first chapter in the appropriate genre category, and get valuable feedback from your peers. This can be a great way to find beta reader candidates and critique partners!
7 Things To Do Before Editing Your First Draft
In this article, we share seven steps to follow to ensure you’re editing effectively and working efficiently to make your book the best it can be.
Self-Editing: The Macro and Micro Things to Polish to Make Your Work Shine
In this recorded webinar, book coach, editor, and bestselling author Jennifer Crosswhite shows you macro and micro editing techniques to look at your work (both fiction and nonfiction) with perspective so you can improve it and move forward in your publishing and writing journey.
How to Self-Edit Your Book Manuscript: Grammar, Format, and Clarity
In this article, we explain how to self-edit your manuscript for common grammar, formatting, and overwriting mistakes.
How to Self-Edit Your Book Manuscript: 4 Easy Ways to Enhance Readability
In this article, we provide tips for line editing and structural editing, which will strengthen your writing and make it more appealing to readers.
The Art of Editing: The Journey from First Draft to Final Draft
In this recorded webinar, bestselling author Derek Taylor Kent teaches strategies for editing that will make it less daunting, and reviews the most common grammatical issues that make writing appear amateur instead of pro.
Ask Keith: As an author, what are some things you should pay close attention to as you revise your manuscript?
In this blog post, Keith shares four questions authors should ask themselves as they are revising their manuscript, no matter their chosen publishing path.
7 Mistakes Writers Should Avoid When Self-Editing
In this article, we highlight common mistakes writers make in their manuscripts, and steps they can take to recognize these mistakes and fix them or avoid them.
Top Ten Steps to a Successful Revision
In this recorded webinar, editor Helga Schier offers strategies to help you recognize and fix the most typical and frustrating storytelling mistakes including forced plot twists, cardboard characters, lackluster dialogue, and pacing.
The Finer Points of Punctuation
In this recorded webinar, copy editor Ashley Petry reviews some helpful tips for punctuation and clarifies some confusing punctuation rules.
8 Essential Rules for Punctuating Dialogue
In this article, we share eight essential rules for punctuating dialogue correctly, so that your text communicates clearly and appears polished and professional.
Citation Best Practices for Nonfiction
In this article, we share what a citation is, why, when, and how to use citations, and how to create a nonfiction book that is ethically and legally sound.
Enhancing Your Nonfiction Book with Editorial Boards
In this recorded webinar, author and book coach Cathy Fyock will guide you through what an editorial board is, the process of selecting members, how to effectively communicate with them, and how to distill the feedback received.
Ask Sheila: What are beta readers, and how can I find a few to read my manuscript and provide feedback?
In this blog post, Sheila explains the benefits of using beta readers to provide feedback, and advises on when and where to find qualified candidates.
6 Key Questions to Ask Your Beta Readers
In this article, we share six key questions to ask your beta readers that can help keep them focused on the critical areas of your book.
Determining the Best Editing for You and Your Book
In this article, the four main types of professional editing are reviewed along with how to determine the type you need, and when you should hire a professional.
Why Professional Editing is a Smart Investment for Your Book
In this collection of video interviews, authors and editors discuss the benefits of working with a professional editor and what to expect with that partnership.
Make it Sing: The Why, When, and How of Working with an Editor
In this recorded webinar, editor Helga Schier review the different types of professional editing, how to find a good editor, and what to expect when working with one.
The Cost of Hiring an Editor and Other Considerations
In this video interview, book advisor Beth Kallman Werner discusses the various ways that professional editors can charge for their services, and what to look for when hiring a professional editor.
Ask Keith: How can I get my book edited without shelling out a fortune?
In this blog post, Keith provides important considerations when hiring a professional editor, and shares tips for making the most of your editing budget.
8 Tips for Tackling Notes from Your Editor
In this article, we share eight tips for keeping your stress and ego in check while you revise and tackle your editor’s notes like a professional.
How to Handle and Process Feedback on Your Manuscript
In this article, we share tips for processing critiques and edits from editors, critique partners, and beta readers in a constructive way.
Ask Sheila: In addition to professional editing, what else can I do to set my book up for success before I publish?
In this blog post, Sheila shares eight strategies for packaging your content in a way that maximizes its potential in a competitive marketplace, increasing your chances of building a readership.
Editing Resources
In this list of helpful editing resources, we include links to editing software, tools, and relevant organizations.

Publishing
6 Tips on How to Fulfill Your Publishing Resolution
In this recorded webinar, Author Learning Center President Keith Ogorek shares tips on how to go from writing your manuscript to holding a copy of your published book.
The Four Paths to Publishing
In this recorded webinar, Author Learning Center President Keith Ogorek reviews the four primary publishing paths and explains the benefits and challenges of each option.
Considerations When Choosing the Best Publishing Path for a Book
In this video interview, Pete Nikolai, Director of Publishing Services at HarperCollins Christian Publishing, discusses assessing your goals and skills to determine the publishing option that best complements you and your book.
Self-Publishing Service Providers: Understanding Your Options
In this article, the three main paths for self-publishing are reviewed, along with the leading service providers for each.
How to Recognize a Publishing Scam and Avoid It
In this recorded webinar, Author Learning Center President Keith Ogorek gives you sure-fire ways to immediately recognize a scammer, and explains how the publishing industry and Hollywood companies actually work.
Introduction to Traditional Publishing
In this recorded webinar, literary agent Amy Levenson provides an overview of the ins and outs of the traditional publishing world, who the major publishers are, how they operate, and what it means to be a traditionally published author.
Ask Sheila: What is the best way to find an agent to represent me and pitch my book to traditional publishers?
In this blog post, Sheila reviews how to find a qualified, experienced literary agent to represent your work thorough research, an exceptional manuscript or book proposal, an effective query letter, and careful attention to submission guidelines.
Query Like a Pro - Proven Strategies to Land an Agent or Publisher
In this recorded webinar, bestselling author Derek Taylor Kent shares unique and proven strategies for querying and submissions that typically lead to interest from multiple agents/publishers.
Tips for Successfully Submitting Your Manuscript: What Agents and Editors are Looking for and Why
In this recorded webinar, editor Helga Schier briefly explains what goes on behind the scenes of a publishing house, and discusses how an awareness of submissions procedures can help you write a better manuscript and query letter.
Ask Sheila: If I’ve signed my book rights over to a publisher, how can I get those rights back?
In this blog post, Sheila shares the reasons an author may want their book rights reverted, explains the importance of understanding how contract terms can impact the process, and reviews what options are available.
Ask Keith: If you self-publish a manuscript, can that manuscript later be sold to a publisher and be re-published?
In this blog post, Keith explains the criteria that literary agents and traditional publishers are looking for when considering a book that has already been self-published.
Why Do I Need a Pen Name?
In this recorded webinar, author and publisher L.E. Perez explains the benefits of using a pen name in lieu of your real name when publishing a book, and important things to consider when using a pen name.
Why Every Nonfiction Author Should Prepare a Proposal
In this recorded webinar, author and book coach Cathy Fyock explains the elements of a book proposal, why you need one, and how to use it to pitch your book to decision-makers such as agents, publishers, and booksellers.
Ask Sheila: Where can I find a professional book cover designer?
In this blog post, Sheila shares four ways authors can find a quality cover designer that will create a great design that looks attractive, clearly conveys the book’s title, genre, and tone, and entices the potential reader to learn more.
How to Design a Book Cover that Grabs Readers
In this collection of video interviews, authors, designers, and publishers share tips and best practices for designing an effective book cover that will instantly grab the attention of readers.
Ask Sheila: How can I make my book title stand out and grab reader attention, while also describing what my book is about?
In this blog post, Sheila explains the key elements of an attention-grabbing, discoverable book title, and shares nonfiction versus fiction tips and examples.
Interior Parts of a Book: Front Matter, Text, and Back Matter
In this article, we explain the three main sections of a book’s interior, and the individual elements in each section.
Ask Sheila: How do I write a great author bio for my book cover and website?
In this blog post, Sheila shares the key elements of a compelling author biography or About the Author, and provides tips for both nonfiction and fiction authors.
Ask Sheila: How do I write a great back cover blurb and book description?
In this blog post, Sheila explains how to introduce your book in the most intriguing way possible, using a tagline or hook, catchy summary, and a testimonial or quote from an advance review.
Writing and Publishing Short Memoir and Personal Essays
In this recorded webinar, award-winning author Jeanne Lyet Gassman explores resources for publishing your short work as well as submission, tracking, and publication strategies.
Ask Keith: I have two nearly completed manuscripts and I’m only interested getting them out as eBooks. How can I set about accomplishing this?
In this blog post, Keith provides five steps for starting your digital publishing journey, including choosing a platform, manuscript formatting, and cover design tips.
Audiobooks 201: Creating, Publishing and Marketing Audiobooks
In this recorded webinar, bestselling author and audiobook producer Derek Taylor Kent guides you through the steps of how he has produced and published more than a dozen audiobooks, along with best practices for having them produced for you.
Ask Sheila: How can I find the right professionals to help ensure my published book meets all industry standards?
In this blog post, Sheila explains reader and book buyer expectations when it comes content, structure, and quality. She provides resources for working with experienced book designers, formatters, and illustrators who understand industry standards and requirements.
Ask Sheila: If I want to make changes to a book that is already published, can I update the book or republish it?
In this blog post, Sheila provides steps to evaluate the pros and cons of republishing a book, and to ensure you are following industry guidelines when you are considering updating or republishing.
Publishing & Distribution Resources
In this list of helpful publishing resources, we include links to agent and publisher directories, printing and distribution platforms, and library organizations.

Marketing
Ask Keith: I have a self-published book that needs a marketing plan. What’s the number one, foolproof, best first step?
In this blog post, Keith explains the importance of knowing which readers are most likely to notice, purchase, enjoy, and pass along the news of your book, and how to reach them.
The 3 Phases of Effective Book Marketing
In this recorded webinar, Author Learning Center President Keith Ogorek presents the three phases of an effective book marketing campaign which include, 1) During the writing stage, 2) Before the book is released, and 3) After the book is released.
Ask Sheila: What is essential for a book launch?
In this blog post, Sheila shares six steps to help focus your book launch efforts, build a solid foundation long-term, and create a successful launch plan.
The POEM Method of Book Marketing
In this recorded webinar, Author Learning Center President Keith Ogorek provides a simple way to build a marketing plan that will take some of the mystery out of the process. POEM stands for
Publicity, Online, Events, and Multi-media.
Ask Sheila: I keep hearing I need an “author platform” to improve my book’s chances of success. What is an author platform, and how do I start building one?
In this blog post, Sheila explains what an author platform is, the tools, resources, and strategies authors can use to create one, and how an effective author platform can make the difference between a successful book and one that struggles to gain traction.
The Book Marketing Habit: A 15-Minute Method to Decrease Author Overwhelm and Increase Book Sales
In this recorded webinar, book marketing expert Stephanie Feger reviews the basics of effective book marketing, and uncovers practical strategies that authors can implement in small doses to make the most of limited time.
Ask Sheila: I’m not sure how to market and sell my book. What are some things I can do to generate interest and increase sales?
In this blog post, Sheila shares 101 actionable book marketing ideas that authors can start implementing today. There are practical ideas for all genres, all budgets, and all skillsets.
Sustainable Success: Crafting an Actionable Year-Round Book Marketing Strategy
In this recorded webinar, book marketing expert Keri-Rae Barnum of New Shelves Books will teach you how to create a practical and sustainable marketing strategy that seamlessly fits into your busy life, empowering you to break down your marketing goals into actionable tasks.
Websites for Authors: A Necessary Evil
In this recorded webinar, author and publisher L.E. Perez explains why a website is a necessary evil, the key elements to include, and how you go from concept to completion.
Ask Sheila: How can I get more traffic to my author website where people can see my book?
In this blog post, Sheila shares three essential steps authors must take in order to make their website more discoverable and drive traffic to their books.
Master Your Story: Building an Unforgettable Author Brand
In this recorded webinar, book marketing expert A.G. Billig provides actionable steps to develop a brand that not only enhances your visibility, but also deepens your connection with your audience.
Ask Sheila: How can I create an effective social media presence while keeping it manageable and easy to maintain long-term?
In this blog post, Sheila provides seven steps authors can take to make the process of building a social media presence more enjoyable, more manageable, and more effective.
The Value of Newsletters and Email Marketing for Authors
In this recorded webinar, author and publisher L.E. Perez reviews the basics of starting and growing an email list that will engage readers long-term, including choosing a provider, building an email list, and content strategies.
Creating a Dynamic Author Media Kit for the New Year
In this recorded webinar, literary publicist Lindsey Gobel discusses the key components of an author media kit, how to create them, and how to use a media kit to garner publicity from media outlets.
Ask Sheila: What are the benefits of having a sell sheet for a book, and what should be included?
In this blog post, Sheila explains the benefits of a sell sheet, outlines the elements that should be included, and provides some design tips.
Reviews for Authors: Insider Tips for How to Get Reader Reviews
In this recorded webinar, book marketing expert Keri-Rae Barnum of New Shelves Books shares insider tips on where to find new reviewers for your book, and how to ask for reviews and actually get results.
Ask Sheila: How can I find out about upcoming book events such as festivals and conventions where I can sell my book?
In this blog post, Sheila shares four ways authors can find in-person events such as festivals, fairs, signings, and conventions, where they can meet readers and sell books.
The Speaker Author: Sell More Books and Book More Speeches
In this recorded webinar, author and book coach Cathy Fyock discusses how to sell books before, during, and after your speech, and how to write a book that will create more speaking opportunities.
Skyrocket Your Book Sales: Winning Advertising Strategies for Bestsellers
In this recorded webinar, book marketing expert A.G. Billig shares three effective advertising avenues that can help you gain visibility, attract readers, and sell more books.
Podcasting for Authors: Maximize Reach with a Micro Approach
In this recorded webinar, book marketing expert Stephanie Feger reviews how to host podcasts, find guest appearance opportunities, and maximize a podcast’s visibility, reach, and engagement.
Amazon Algorithms 101
In this recorded webinar, book marketing expert Keri-Rae Barnum of New Shelves Books shares four ways authors can optimize their presence on Amazon, making their books more visible to readers.
Keywords Decoded for Authors
In this recorded webinar, book marketing expert Keri-Rae Barnum of New Shelves Books provides a step-by-step breakdown of what kind of keywords you will need to successfully market your book, where to find them, and how to use them.
Ask Sheila: What are some budget-friendly ways to promote a book that is already published?
In this blog post, Sheila shares eight budget-friendly book marketing initiatives authors can execute to create awareness for their work and sell more books.
How to Successfully Repurpose Your Book’s Content
In this recorded webinar, bestselling author Russell Nohelty shares numerous ways authors can repurpose their nonfiction or fiction content, and take their career and earnings to the next level.
Marketing Resources
In this list of helpful marketing resources, we include links to book event directories, book review and media outlets, design tools, and advertising platforms.

This list is just a snapshot of the thousands of helpful resources and tools available on the Author Learning Center website. We encourage you to explore the website using the drop-down menu or search bar on the home page, and attend any upcoming live webinar events relevant to your book and stage in your journey.

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