Clarity Comes First

Clarity Comes First: 5 Questions to Ask Before You Write Your Non-Fiction Book

August 04, 20252 min read

So many people tell me the same thing: “I want to write a book, but I don’t know where to start.”

And I always respond with the same truth—you start with clarity.

Before you write a single chapter, you need to understand your message, your reader, and your mission. Without that foundation, you risk confusion, frustration, and unfinished drafts.

Here’s how to get clear and move forward with purpose.


Why Clarity Is the Cornerstone of Great Writing

Trying to write a book without clarity is like sailing without a compass. You might make progress—but you’ll likely drift off course or run out of steam.

Clarity helps you define:

  • Who you’re writing for

  • What transformation you want to create

  • Why this message matters now

And when you know those things? You write with more confidence, make stronger decisions, and stay motivated through the messy middle.


The 5 Questions You Must Answer First

In my free guide, 5 Things You Need to Know to Write Your Non-Fiction Book, I walk you through the five key questions every writer should ask before they start writing. These include:

  • Who is my reader and what do they need from me?

  • What’s the core message I want to share?

  • What transformation will my book create?

  • Why am I the person to tell this story?

  • What action do I want my reader to take?

These aren’t just brainstorming prompts—they’re the building blocks of a book that makes a lasting impact.

Download the free 5 Things Guide


Ready to Go Deeper?

If you're serious about setting a strong foundation for your book, I highly recommend my Clarity Workbook. It’s a downloadable PDF that guides you through defining your book’s purpose, ideal audience, and message.

Writers who use it report feeling more confident, focused, and excited to write.

🎯 Grab the Clarity Workbook for just $19

Start with clarity and you’ll write with power.

Hey! I’m Julie Pershing, Your Book Coach. I help coaches, speakers, and entrepreneurs turn their signature programs into books to build authority, establish expertise, and grow their audience.

Julie Pershing

Hey! I’m Julie Pershing, Your Book Coach. I help coaches, speakers, and entrepreneurs turn their signature programs into books to build authority, establish expertise, and grow their audience.

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