Non-fiction is a form of prose writing that factually describes real events and people, sometimes offering additional commentary. This tag should be used for any questions relating to non-fiction, including non-fiction formatting and technique, non-fiction critiques, and the publishing of ...
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Minimum (realistic) word count of non-fiction book
What is a reasonable estimate for the minimum length, in word count, for a non-fiction book? I'd guesstimate that non-fiction books "generally" (yes, this is very rough) run perhaps 150-450 pages, ...
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Should I use different pen names for different audiences (non-fiction)?
I am working on three separate works for three different audiences. All are non-fiction. One is for children ages eight to twelve, another is for teens ages fourteen to twenty, and the third is for ...
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2answers
248 views
Is there a typical structure for non-fiction popular science books? If so, what is it?
Is there an accepted or suggested structure for writing non-fiction (specifically, popular science) books?
As an example of the type of book I mean, there's Dan Ariely's Predictably Irrational: a ...
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1answer
200 views
Essay writing contests
I can't seem to find any essay contests out there. Is there a list of essay contests somewhere? Does anyone have suggestions for contests?
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Verb tense for technical document titles
I'm writing a technical manual about creating database systems, and wondered what is the best verb tense for title names.
My ideas are:
Continuous (-ing) form: (e.g. "Creating a Cluster", "Creating ...
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Critique: Make excerpt more visual/flow better
I have this excerpt I'm not sure is fluid and visual enough:
Peter came out of the café rubbing his tummy. The chipmunk had a smile on the
face and seemed content.
Not too far behind him ...
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1answer
80 views
Advice on choice of epigram
I am writing a paper on Internet censorship in China and was considering starting it with a thought provoking epigram to draw the reader.
The title of the paper in question is:
China's Internet ...
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1answer
113 views
How short is “short monograph”?
I've seen several references to some "short monograph on subject X". But how short is that? Is there a standard length to use as a reference?
I realize that this depends on page size and font, so I ...
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1answer
77 views
Is it possible my book could be taken off-line for sale if there is a cease and desist letter?
I have written a true story on my experience with some individuals and major corporations. The book has factual proof throughout story. I am afraid that they may get angry and send cease and desist ...
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1answer
54 views
Critique of this short text about inequality and contempt
I understand it is possible to ask for critiques here and ask that you guide me to adapt this question if needed.
Now, I feel the need every now and then to get a thought down on paper. However, I am ...
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1answer
129 views
Where can I find exercises to help me develop fictional writing techniques useful in narrative nonfiction?
I usually write explanatory nonfiction, but now I am interested in something more narrative--think Erik Larson or Rebecca Skloot, for example. I write clearly, and understand basic ideas about ...
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1answer
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How does one involve people in writing non-fiction?
I haven't written anything serious in a while, but I would like to get back into writing non-fiction. In particular, I want to write about "big ideas" that interest me; however, I realize that ...
