---
title: "Writing a book"
description: "Schaefer's process for finishing a book."
canonical: https://tomsharman.com/bookshelf/known/writing-a-book/
updated: 2026-11-03
---

# Writing a book

> Schaefer's process for finishing a book.

Mark Schaefer's framework, from KNOWN, pp. 125 to 142.

Framework 13 of 19 from [KNOWN](https://tomsharman.com/bookshelf/known/index.md) by Mark Schaefer. Category: Storytelling.

## The steps

1. **The main idea.** Find a singular idea from research, expertise, a personal story, a vision or a solution to a problem.
2. **The outline.** Make a folder per chapter and collect research through the year.
3. **The writing begins.** Block out large chunks of time, or record a speech first.
4. **Testing ideas.** Float radical ideas in blog posts and private groups.
5. **Rewriting and editing.** Rewrite and hire an editor.
6. **How to publish.** Self-publish for revenue, ownership and speed.

## Where it comes from

From chapter: CHAPTER 8 Taking Your Brand to the Next Level, pp. 125–142

## The animation

24 seconds, 4:5, no sound.

- MP4: https://tomsharman-downloads-006143767029.s3.eu-north-1.amazonaws.com/downloads/bookshelf/known/writing-a-book.mp4
- MP4, dark: https://tomsharman-downloads-006143767029.s3.eu-north-1.amazonaws.com/downloads/bookshelf/known/writing-a-book-dark.mp4
- Still: https://tomsharman-downloads-006143767029.s3.eu-north-1.amazonaws.com/downloads/bookshelf/known/writing-a-book.png
- Still, dark: https://tomsharman-downloads-006143767029.s3.eu-north-1.amazonaws.com/downloads/bookshelf/known/writing-a-book-dark.png