Glossary · Writing & editing
What is a book proposal?
Definition
Book proposal: A book proposal pitches a nonfiction book to agents or publishers, usually before it is written, with an outline, market case and sample chapters.
Most nonfiction is sold to traditional publishers on the strength of a proposal rather than a finished manuscript. A book proposal is a business case: it explains what the book is, who will buy it, why now, why this author, and how it will be sold — then shows that the author can deliver.
Typical sections include an overview of the book's idea and promise; the target audience; competitive or comparable titles and how this book differs; the author's platform and credentials (audience, expertise, media reach); a marketing and promotion plan; a chapter-by-chapter outline with short summaries; and one or more sample chapters. Agents and publishers have their own preferences, so follow their guidelines.
Fiction is usually sold differently — with a query letter, synopsis and the full manuscript — though authors with a track record may sell a novel on a partial manuscript and synopsis.
Self-publishers do not need a formal proposal, but working through one is valuable. Defining the reader, studying competing titles and planning chapters before you write makes the book sharper and easier to market. The same research feeds your keywords, categories and description when you publish.