Steps to write a book:

I.  Distill the 'Big Idea' -- a single sentence. ('Elevator Pitch').

II. Create a one page outline of the plot:

IV. Grow the plot, and decide its' general type
(Adventure/Change/Mistake/Lure/Race\...)

I.  Decide on a schedule. \[300 words a day\]

II. Set deadlines. Treat them as ultimate. \[Opener by Monday\]

III. Set time for 'Diffused Mode'.

IV. Write an 'Opener'.
    (Dramatic/Philosophical/Suprising/Poetic/Humouros) \[famous
    openers\]

V.   Write, then critique -- whatever the chunk size. Not both.

VI. Brave the 'Marathon of the Middle'.

VII. Resounding ending. Slowly.

Important principles:

-   Think 'Reader First' at all times. When in doubt, you're the reader.

-   Find your 'Voice'. (What's the coolest thing that ever happened to
    you? Who did you tell it to, and how?)

-   Constantly throw in conflict, and tension.

-   Be a fierce editor.