Creating an e-guide can be a rewarding experience, allowing you to share your expertise and generate income. If you’re wondering How To Create An E-guide that stands out, this comprehensive guide breaks down the process into manageable steps, from idea generation to sales.
The beauty of creating an e-guide lies in its low startup costs. While it requires a time investment for writing, editing, and formatting, the monetary investment is minimal. This guide will provide the knowledge you need to create your first informational e-book.
Here’s a detailed 13-step guide to help you on your journey:
1. Brainstorm a Winning Idea: The cornerstone of any successful e-guide is a compelling idea that solves a problem. Consider the recurring questions from your blog readers or inquiries you frequently receive. Identifying a need is crucial.
Before diving in, research whether a similar e-guide already exists. If it does, determine how yours will offer a unique perspective or added value. What will make readers choose your e-guide over the competition?
2. Commit to Writing: Once you have your idea, dedicate time to writing. Don’t fixate on a specific length; focus on thoroughly covering the topic until you’ve exhausted your knowledge. The original e-guide was around 14,000 words, resulting in a 62-page document in 14-point font.
Utilize tools like Scrivener, Microsoft Word, or Google Docs to facilitate the writing process. Scrivener, in particular, is helpful for organizing and rearranging thoughts.
Choosing the right title is also part of writing. Consider calling it a guide or manual instead of an e-book.
Always include links! They help direct your readers to more information and add value to the content.
3. Migrate to Google Docs: Google Docs is essential for creating PDFs with clickable links, a feature not always available in other PDF converters. Transfer your content to Google Docs, but hold off on converting it just yet.
4. Select Engaging Fonts: Google Docs offers limited font options. Choose a larger, screen-friendly font for optimal readability. Consider using 14-point Georgia for the main text and 18-point Tahoma for chapter titles. Prioritize fonts that are both easy to read and visually appealing.
If formatting isn’t your strength, consider hiring a professional to handle this aspect.
5. Design a Captivating Front Page: A visually appealing cover is crucial, but it doesn’t need to be overly elaborate, especially for your first e-guide. Ensure the title and image are prominent and easily recognizable, even at smaller sizes. Potential buyers often see the cover as a small image, so make sure it grabs attention.
Alt text: E-guide cover design featuring a clear title and relevant imagery to attract potential readers.
6. Create a Comprehensive Table of Contents: A well-structured table of contents enhances navigation. Postpone adding page numbers until the formatting is finalized.
7. PDF Conversion for Spacing Refinement: Converting to PDF reveals spacing inconsistencies that may not be apparent in Google Docs. This step requires meticulous adjustments, as even minor changes can affect the entire document. Expect to convert to PDF multiple times during this phase.
8. Page Numbering: Google Docs lacks direct page numbering. Add page numbers during the PDF conversion process via “print settings.” Don’t actually print; simply save the PDF with page numbers and update your Table of Contents accordingly.
9. Final PDF Conversion: With all formatting and page numbers in place, perform a final PDF conversion. While PDF is a widely accessible format, consider offering alternative formats like EPUB to cater to e-reader users.
10. Determine Your Pricing Strategy: Informational e-guides often command higher prices than traditional books. Consider the value you’re providing and research comparable guides. The original author initially considered $29, then lowered it to $24 based on Twitter feedback. Experiment to find the optimal price point.
11. Set Up a PayPal Account: A PayPal account is essential for receiving payments. Ensure your account is properly configured to handle the expected volume of transactions.
Alt text: PayPal interface showing options for sending and receiving money, essential for e-guide sales.
12. Leverage E-junkie for E-commerce: For a nominal $5 per month, E-junkie handles all e-commerce aspects, including secure delivery of your e-guide upon purchase. This minimal investment is a significant advantage.
E-junkie offers various selling options; uploading your guide to the site allows for automated delivery via email download links.
13. Design a Compelling Landing Page: A dedicated landing page on your blog is where you’ll showcase and sell your e-guide. Keep it concise and focused, making it easy for readers to purchase. Include clear calls to action and highlight the key benefits of your guide.
Alt text: An e-guide landing page with clear pricing, concise description, and a prominent call to action.
Creating an e-guide requires dedication and attention to detail, but the rewards can be substantial. By following these steps, you can create a valuable resource that benefits your audience and establishes you as an expert in your field. Now that you know how to create an e-guide, what are you waiting for?
