How to Write a Professional Book Proposal

Prewriting Stage

1). Research your idea for the book. For example, if you're writing a book about the increasing Muslim population in Latin America and how this can change the landscape of the Western world, read sociology and political science journal articles that deal with this topic in an objective and respectful manner. Visit the public library and ask the librarian to help you find books about the Muslim presence in Latin America. Find ways to develop a different angle on this topic for your book in light of your research.
2). Talk with college professors who are experts in the subject you're writing about. If you plan to write a book about the challenges of interfaith marriages in America in light of the trend toward globalization, meet with some professors in the religious studies, sociology and history departments. During the meetings, ask them what research they would like to see from future authors on this topic.
3). Visit the websites of publishers you're interested in. Click on links such as "Submission Guidelines," "Writers' Guidelines" or "FAQs" to get detailed information on what types of books the publishers accept from writers and how to send book proposals to them. If possible, purchase some books from these publishers so you can get an idea of what types of material they specialize in.

1). Include a properly-formatted cover sheet. Place your name and book's title in the center of the page and in the upper-left corner, type "Book Proposal." And in the bottom right of the page, write your name, address and phone number.
2). Give an overview of your book. Discuss the book's topic, explain why it's relevant to readers and mention the ways in which this book fits with the mission of the publisher you're interested in. For example, if you're writing a book that profiles the lives of Christians who were persecuted for their faith in various parts of Africa, state that this book matches the publisher's current needs for more books that pertain to the sufferings of Christians in Third World countries.
3). Discuss your book's target audience. If your book is about how minorities can use more environmentally friendly ways to care for and style their hair without the use of harsh chemicals, mention that based on research you've done, there is a growing number of minorities who are seeking alternative methods of haircare and this book will help them accomplish that goal.
4). Include a table of contents and some sample chapters. This gives the editors a good idea of what your book will be about and whether your book's topic will be a good match for the mission of their company. The sample chapters will let the publisher evaluate your writing style, organizational skills and ability to write clearly, coherently and on topic.