how to write computer books

4-steps for faster chapters

This is a formula for quickly writing an engaging, practical tutorial. It works for programming, admin interfaces, applications or whatever tech topic you want.

It gives you a straightforward process to follow for any technical topic. Avoid writers block and make rapid progress.

Any tutorial has four components:

1. Instruction
2. Explanation
3. Discussion
4. Narrative

Each type of content requires different writing skills and focus. Make your life easier: focus on one kind of content at a time, in this order.

1. Write the instructions first
2. Add an explanation that sits underneath each set of instructions
3. Below each explanation, discuss the general concepts and commands that each example demonstrated
4. Bring all these separate chunks together so it flows like a story

Don’t get lost in later steps if you’re not happy with the earlier ones.