Mistakes to Avoid When You “Make My Plan” for Writing a Book
Writing a book is a dream for many, but transforming that dream into a published reality requires more than just sheer passion and creativity. Planning is the backbone of any great book, and when you decide to “Make My Plan,” you’re already moving in the right direction. However, even the best of intentions can go awry if you fall into common planning pitfalls.
In this guide, we will explore the most frequent mistakes aspiring authors make while planning their books. We’ll also highlight how tools and services like Make My Plan and expert guidance through platforms such as Praneet Brar can accelerate your book-writing journey by helping you avoid these errors.
Why Planning Matters in Writing
Before diving into the mistakes, let’s understand why book planning is essential. Planning ensures that you:
- Maintain a consistent theme and plot
- Meet deadlines and stay motivated
- Avoid writer’s block and structural issues
- Stay aligned with your audience’s expectations
But a bad plan – or no plan at all – can derail your entire project. That’s why it’s important to know what to avoid when creating your book-writing blueprint.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When You Make My Plan
1. Skipping the Research Phase
A common mistake among first-time authors is jumping straight into writing without conducting adequate research. Whether you’re writing fiction, non-fiction, or memoir, research plays a crucial role in creating believable and authentic narratives.
Don’t assume everything you need to know is already in your head. Explore your genre, study your competitors, and understand your reader’s demographics and interests. Sites like Praneet Brar offer insights and resources to guide your initial research.
2. Not Defining Your Goals Clearly
Every successful book starts with clear, measurable goals. Ask yourself:
- Is this book meant for education, entertainment, or self-expression?
- What is the target word count?
- When do I want to finish each draft?
- What is the end goal — self-publishing, traditional publishing, or simply creative fulfillment?
Make My Plan offers goal-setting templates to help outline these aspects. This allows for precise scheduling, realistic expectations, and actionable steps.
3. Ignoring the Power of Outlining
Too many writers prefer to “wing it,” diving headfirst into writing with little or no outline. This often results in plot holes, uneven pacing, and a lack of coherence.
When using platforms like Make My Plan, you can leverage structured outlining tools designed specifically for authors. This enables you to break your story into manageable chapters, develop character arcs, and maintain narrative consistency.
4. Underestimating Time Management
Writing a book is a marathon, not a sprint. One common mistake is underestimating how long each stage of writing will take. This often leads to burnout and incomplete drafts.
Use time-blocking techniques and allocate time to each task—from initial research and first drafts to editing and revision. Here’s a basic time estimate table to consider:
| Task | Estimated Time |
|---|---|
| Research | 2-4 weeks |
| Outlining | 1-2 weeks |
| Writing First Draft | 8-12 weeks |
| Editing & Revisions | 4-8 weeks |
Use planners and scheduling tools available on Make My Plan to stay on track.
5. Failing to Identify Target Audience
Another major mistake is writing without a specific audience in mind. You need to understand who your readers are, what they value, and how your book can meet their needs or interests.
Use tools such as market segmentation charts or create reader personas. Services provided at Praneet Brar can help develop detailed audience profiling to tailor your content effectively.
6. Neglecting the Editing Plan
Some authors consider writing and editing as two sides of the same coin. But they’re different tasks and need separate planning. Editing without a plan can leave your manuscript disorganized and error-prone.
Set specific periods for self-editing and professional reviews. Services on Praneet Brar and partner resources can help you connect with experienced editors to refine your content and eliminate inconsistencies.
7. Not Planning for Publishing and Marketing
Even the most beautifully written book can flop without the right publishing and promotional plan. Many authors wait until the last minute to think about publishing formats (eBook, paperback, audiobook) or ignore marketing altogether.
Instead, use services like Make My Plan early in your journey to prepare for your book’s post-publication life. Build a marketing plan that incorporates:
- Email marketing
- Social media campaigns
- Influencer collaborations
- Book launch events
Also consider SEO-blogging and content marketing with the help of platforms like Praneet Brar to grow your author brand online.
How to Use Make My Plan Effectively
The platform Make My Plan exists to guide writers step-by-step in their planning journey. Here’s how to utilize it to the fullest:
- Create a Free Account: Begin by signing up for a free account to access the basic templates and tools.
- Choose a Template: Select the best-fit planning template — whether for fiction, non-fiction, or biography.
- Set Milestones: Establish goals and timeline checkpoints to stay accountable.
- Track Progress: Use progress bars, calendar reminders, and automated notifications to keep your writing on track.
Don’t hesitate to reach out through Praneet Brar’s contact page for personalized help if you’re stuck or need a customized plan adjustment.
Conclusion
Writing a book is a rewarding but challenging process. Avoiding the common mistakes listed above can make your journey smoother and more efficient. Whether you’re a first-time writer or planning your fifth manuscript, proper preparation is non-negotiable.
With platforms like Make My Plan and strategic consultation from Praneet Brar, you’re not alone in your journey. Use the right tools, plan smartly, and stay committed to producing the best version of your book.
Remember: the key to finishing your book isn’t just determination — it’s great planning.
Leave a Reply