Reviewed by Carla Trueheart for Readers' Favorite

Efficient Book Writing: A Strategic Program for Improving Writing Productivity by Kasthurirangan Gopalakrishnan helps writers get organized, gather ideas, learn how to efficiently brainstorm, and how to set time aside for writing. Included in the book are many exercises to help streamline the writing process and get your thoughts down for further examination. Also included are methods to map ideas, such as mind mapping (the bubble or cluster method), which were especially interesting and should help writers visualize ideas. There are also many tips for writers, including an explanation of free writing, a free form type of writing which teaches writers how to get words down without editing or putting too much thought into the process. From the first draft to editing and revision, Efficient Book Writing holds the writer’s hand as they move forward with their project.

One of the many problems a writer may face, whether a seasoned writer or a beginning writer, is self-doubt. Efficient Book Writing addresses this issue and examines external reasons for this way of thinking. Author Kasthurirangan Gopalakrishnan teaches the writer about procrastination, negative self-talk, and basically that we all make mistakes. There is much advice on developing a writing routine that meets your schedule, avoiding distraction traps that many writers refer to as “writer’s block,” and choosing inspirational writing environments. A bad habit many writers have is turning to Facebook or online games when stuck, and Efficient Book Writing gives many tips on how to avoid that habit. The book also explains the Pomodoro Technique, which helps break large tasks into manageable time intervals. This was great advice, and I particularly enjoyed that writers can enjoy a “reward” as motivation for accomplishing writing goals. Overall, Efficient Book Writing is a fantastic writing source and should help many writers with the writing process.