How to Get a Job Writing Biology Textbooks
- 1). Develop a strong background in biological sciences. Course work in high school and college is critical to establishing a base of knowledge necessary to be a successful writer. Take as many laboratory and specialized classes as possible to become well-rounded on the subject. Specialize your course of study in graduate school to further improve your credentials.
- 2). Write an outline for your biology textbook. If you are not a professional educator, work with a teacher or professor to learn about course schedules and topics necessary for inclusion. The outline you prepare must be thorough or the proposal will not be taken seriously.
- 3). Prepare the first few chapters for your book to submit with your outline to a publisher. Research your subject matter thoroughly prior to writing. Gear your writing and format to the students who will study the material. Add photographs and other visual aids to enhance the written material and show the publisher your intent.
- 4). Identify publishers with which you would like to work on the project. If you are collaborating with a teacher or professor, ask him for contacts he may have with publishing houses or distributors. Otherwise, you can get names and addresses of textbook publishers online; some sites may even give guidance for how proposals should be submitted for consideration.
- 5). Market your proposal to the selected publishers. Enter into a written agreement to create the textbook when you are accepted. Produce your copy within the established deadlines and work with editors on any requested revisions or research.
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