Phase 01: Think like a writer 1- Write with a purpose and find your " why" 2- Get rid of your excuses ( It's me !) Phase 02 : Set yourself up for success 1- Schedule your writing time 2 - Create your writing environment 3 - Equip yourself with the right tools Phase 03: Actually write your book 1- Come up with your book idea Ask yourself : * What do you get paid for? * What are your hobbies? * What are you passionate about? 2- Decide which book you'll write first Ask yourself: * Which one can I write the fastest? * Which one am I most likely to finish? * Which one is going to make me happy? 3- Fill out the book map 4- Turn your book map into an outline 5- Write one chapter at a time 6- Speak your book Phase 04: Avoid potholes along the way 1- Avoid writer's block 2- Don't edit while you write ( definitely me!) 3- Push past the " Messy Middle" Phase 05: Launch your book successfully 1- Hire a great editor to edit your book 2- Format your book properly 3- Come up with a title 4- Get a good cover 5- Build a launch team 6- Get reviews 7- Find a mentor who's done it before _______ : : Now, go and write your book Happy writing ^^)
Thank you Chandler for taking the time to help us learn how to write a book in 90 days. I've watched your video a couple of times and think I have it now and want to get my book written within the next 90 days, or at least I'm going to try. I appreciate all the videos to help me get this accomplished and will need your help again at the end to finish it off with a cover, how to format it for publication, and ideas for the cover. Thank you for being here to help us become successful authors as you've become. I appreciate you and your team of authors who are on call for help too!
@@ChandlerBoltOfficial Wow, thanks for asking! I purchased your Kindle book, "How to NOT Suck at Writing Your First Book," created my mind map, outline, and now have 4,670 words, so far, for my draft. I started writing a fiction book until I read your book and now I'm writing something that I "know a lot about." Once I complete that book, which I hope will be in 2 weeks or less, I may follow up with a supplement to it or continue my fiction book.
@@DD-nn7vk Woah! That's amazing. Have you checked out our book outline generator? Also, feel free to book a call with the team if you think we can help with your book: self-publishingschool.com/apply
Get rid of excuses and push past the messy middle! I've finished my storyboard and working on the rough draft. Thanks for all the resources and steps Chandler
I'm in the messy middle. I need to get my book project finished. I also need to set up a crowdfunding campaign to help me get over the finish line with this book. One of the ideas I have is that the book I'm writing need to be in English and also Spanish, I found your "Self Publishing School" while searching for how to get a book translated. Your "Write a book, serve humanity." resonated with me.
@@selfpublishingTV other than the fact that your channel is undoubtedly the gold standard when it comes to self-publishing related training? To be honest, I wouldn’t know where to start - there’s so much value in this video.
Great synopsis of the bookwriting process. You are right that editing as you write slows down the process. Getting the first draft in the computer is key.
@@ChandlerBoltOfficial I write to impact people. To show the world a message that they didn't know before. Even if only one person is touched, I've succeeded greatly. I used to experience writer's block all. the. time. When I watched this video, I sat down and thought about what my "why" was and I've had much greater success with writing now. Thank you so much, SPS! #chandlerbolt
I'm following your steps and my book is coming along! I am so excited about how quickly I' m getting it done! Thank you for providing a map! It's work- but I went to a cabin in the woods for a week to GET RID OF MY EXCUSES and GET IT DONE!! Done is WAY better than perfect!!! I'm telling all my friends about you, and sharing your ideas and RUclips channel in my writing groups! Thank you, Chandler!
Thank you for this video! I’m so glad I just found your channel! I started my book 6 months ago but keep getting side tracked. I hope one day it can be made into a Netflix film or even a movie. It’s non-fiction and it’s raw, reveling, romantic, edgy, and full of emotion stirring experiences. This is all set in a timeline that covers 3 generations. Important to note it will indicate it is “based on a true story”. It’s all in a word document and I hope to transfer it to some software and organize it. I’m very proud of it and eager to finish it.
Awesome video! Thanks for your presentation, dear Chandler. I've never published a book before, but have attempted to write some in a rough way. Hoping I'll be more focused and purposed now.
Thanks for the great info. I love your direct and friendly style. You talk fast, so I don't have to use playback faster feature. LOL. And being from South Carolina, I really appreciate that! (I'm from Georgia)
You are very inspiring. As we know, taking your book from idea to reality is, or can be, intimidating. Your positive inspiration that it can be done is by far the most motivating part of your video. “Better done than perfect”
I really liked your video. It is upbeat, which helped me to think how to get started! And, I loved that you talk fast paced so I didn't get bored. Making the outline was my favorite since that is what I need to do.
Thanks for your comment! Happy to read that! We’re having a 3-day event in two weeks with many bestselling authors. Tickets at $47 and prices go up tomorrow. If you’re interested in learning more from him: AuthorAdvantageLive.com Discount link here: selfpublishing.com/vseghetto-AAL
Which of the 21 steps is your favorite? Comment below and let us know! Any steps we missed? Also, if you want to learn more in-depth about how to write a great book (and publish it), check it out here: selfpublishing.com/first-class
I love the mind mapping. It was SO helpful and brilliant to be able to create that and then my outline from that. It has been so easy writing from the outline.
MashAllah, may Allah bless you, I am so happy for RUclips suggested me your videos. InshaAllah, very soon I will start writing my first novel, your explanations are inspiring. I like all your steps . Thank you so much.
This is the second time I listen to your talks. Chandler, you have a pleasant appearance and this has attracted me to you and feel very much at home with you. You're great. I have to learn a lot of things from you.
Thank you for sharing your knowledge. I struggle with depression, PTSD and physical issues due to a 24 year marriage to an abusive narcissist, now ex-husband, but I have faith that with the guidance you share I will be published by the end of 2021! Thank you for all you do and for letting your light shine! You're awesome! 💜
Very helpful. Getting started. No more excuses...I must make the time. I'm inspired to focus with these steps. Time to do ...8 years of talking abt it. Thanks!
Thank you for posting this super informative clip. I was thrilled to have some of this already accomplished and I'm excited to begin my journey. Happy New Year!
i printed the entire pdf book. dedication. i missed my on-call appointment with you guys. the system is a big blegh for my head. i cant do it. im insomniac adhd/asd. but im doing heavy af research and notetaking/making and highlighting etc other books and this pdf. its awesomly thick, i just hope the wisdom within is the equivalent volume. thank you for this FREE pdf, even if most of it is inapplicable, ill know theres info in there that i cant get anywhere else. why? because it's self-publishing 101 from people my OWN age! woot woot
Great synopsis of the process and Chandler's style is quick and get through the content... just the right pacing to keep interest, but yet take some basic notes to help stay focused.
Dear Chandler Bolt! you really told all the golden tips of book writing gained from your experiential learning.I am an educationist and also use to write articles and blogs but learned many new things as I am a beginner book writer .I am from Pakistan and wanted to write a story book for ECE level based on the poems written by one of our national poet and philosopher Dr.Muhammad Allama Iqbal. I love and enjoy working for young children and it has been a challenge for me to create a story book for children without an illustrator due to shortage of funds.But i did not stopped and use the pictures available on google and that's why the "MESSY MIDDLE" part of the video attracted me most as i did not give up having all challenges and shortage of knowledge on book writing.The phase -III part of the book guided me in many ways to work more effectively as per my experience and expertise and also got to know how to outline and making the draft of the book. Phase -4 and 5 of this video supported me as a sincere friend's advise who is surely YOU and at the end two incentives are like take away gifts from you.I hope i will get the free book and training too. All the best wishes. Huma Mir
Excellent Suggestions. I'll follow up with more of your great info. At age 88 I have so many things I've experienced to share. Many are written down already.
After you pointed out the "Don't edit while you write," I now realize why it takes me so long. That's a major thing for me that gets in my way and I totally understand what your saying. Another thing I have trouble with is that "middle mess" you describe and which currently still stuck on. I,m 18 and I've been writing paper books with staples ever since I can remember. It seems so hard at times because you just want to get it perfect, you want people to read it and be affected by it. After trying for the last 3 1/2 years to accomplish this I have scheduled training. I believe you can help me.
Hi Chandler, I am glad I found you. I think your guidance will prove to be exactly what I need to get a book published to build my law firm's business.
As a Life Coach myself, I'm all about finding a purpose and finding my "why". These are two super important elements to achieve anything for if there is motivation and the reason is strong, nothing is impossible, including writing a book. Great vid, Chandler. TY :)
I watched the video, I took a lot of notes..I. watched the entire video from beginning to the end, I can assure you that I'll be in touch thank you.. Very Helpful
Your enthusiastic presentation was so inspiring this morning as last evening I found myself beginning the process and to have watched this video to have more inspiration not knowing about your school actually got me sitting in front of the laptop glued to the screen thank you
Phase 01:
Think like a writer
1- Write with a purpose and find your " why"
2- Get rid of your excuses ( It's me !)
Phase 02 :
Set yourself up for success
1- Schedule your writing time
2 - Create your writing environment
3 - Equip yourself with the right tools
Phase 03:
Actually write your book
1- Come up with your book idea
Ask yourself :
* What do you get paid for?
* What are your hobbies?
* What are you passionate about?
2- Decide which book you'll write first
Ask yourself:
* Which one can I write the fastest?
* Which one am I most likely to finish?
* Which one is going to make me happy?
3- Fill out the book map
4- Turn your book map into an outline
5- Write one chapter at a time
6- Speak your book
Phase 04:
Avoid potholes along the way
1- Avoid writer's block
2- Don't edit while you write ( definitely me!)
3- Push past the " Messy Middle"
Phase 05:
Launch your book successfully
1- Hire a great editor to edit your book
2- Format your book properly
3- Come up with a title
4- Get a good cover
5- Build a launch team
6- Get reviews
7- Find a mentor who's done it before
_______
:
:
Now, go and write your book
Happy writing ^^)
Thank you ☺️
Thanks so much!!
Thanks
We know most of this stuff, but it is encouraging to hear a reminder nice and clear like this - and pick up a couple tips we had forgotten!
If you liked this video, check out my new TEDx talk on the same topic: ruclips.net/video/sHfrvpgDsaw/видео.html
No more excuses. Just got to do it and stay with it. I got my “why”. Thank you!
What is your why?
This video is well done! It breaks up the "not knowing what-to-do-next" pieces. Thank you!
I like the point about the intrinsic and extrinsic why's for writing the books, and the advice to get the excuses out of the way and get started.
Yes! No excuse can go up against you just STARTING!
Thanks, Chandler/SPS! That's what I like about you and your approach-- so encouraging! :~))
@@elainedanforth9485 Have you checked out this video?
ruclips.net/video/kieAfi3hLEY/видео.html
Thank you Chandler for taking the time to help us learn how to write a book in 90 days. I've watched your video a couple of times and think I have it now and want to get my book written within the next 90 days, or at least I'm going to try. I appreciate all the videos to help me get this accomplished and will need your help again at the end to finish it off with a cover, how to format it for publication, and ideas for the cover. Thank you for being here to help us become successful authors as you've become. I appreciate you and your team of authors who are on call for help too!
I love your shirt! I love how clear and precise you spoke and how easy you made your system sound/work. I look forward to learning more from you.
Thanks! Where are you at in the process?
@@ChandlerBoltOfficial Wow, thanks for asking! I purchased your Kindle book, "How to NOT Suck at Writing Your First Book," created my mind map, outline, and now have 4,670 words, so far, for my draft. I started writing a fiction book until I read your book and now I'm writing something that I "know a lot about." Once I complete that book, which I hope will be in 2 weeks or less, I may follow up with a supplement to it or continue my fiction book.
@@DD-nn7vk Woah! That's amazing. Have you checked out our book outline generator?
Also, feel free to book a call with the team if you think we can help with your book: self-publishingschool.com/apply
Get rid of excuses and push past the messy middle! I've finished my storyboard and working on the rough draft. Thanks for all the resources and steps Chandler
Awesome! Let us know if we can support: self-publishingschool.com/apply
I love writing one chapter at a time and setting a time limit doing so. It helps create a focus.
So true!
I have done self publishing school - and i did it! Wrote and self published my best selling book in 90 days!
GOOD WORK Kylie!! Thanks for stopping by to share :)
Hey Kylie! Long time no see. Hope you're well
The roadmap you’ve provided with so many resources is so great! Very well done!
You make writing seem super simple and easy! And circulating the book too. Thank you!
After watching your webinar, I woke up with my why and purpose. Thanks for the inspiration. I’ve been following you almost from your beginning.
great to hear! Have you checked out this video?
ruclips.net/video/kieAfi3hLEY/видео.html
Hello and thank you for the info awesome video but where is the Mind map pdf you've mentioned that would be in the description?
Thanks a lot, Chandler! In your webinar I had a lot of excuses - now I am committed!! Awaiting your call but I am starting with my book tonight!!
I'm in the messy middle. I need to get my book project finished. I also need to set up a crowdfunding campaign to help me get over the finish line with this book. One of the ideas I have is that the book I'm writing need to be in English and also Spanish, I found your "Self Publishing School" while searching for how to get a book translated. Your "Write a book, serve humanity." resonated with me.
Incisive. Relevant. Concise. Brilliant video. Amazing value delivered. Thank you.
Thanks! Biggest takeaway?
@@selfpublishingTV other than the fact that your channel is undoubtedly the gold standard when it comes to self-publishing related training? To be honest, I wouldn’t know where to start - there’s so much value in this video.
ONE & DONE. Very clear & concise. I don't need to look at any other videos to finish my book. thanks chandler.
Great synopsis of the bookwriting process. You are right that editing as you write slows down the process. Getting the first draft in the computer is key.
The first, "find your why" - super helpful!
Thank you! What is your why?
@@ChandlerBoltOfficial I write to impact people. To show the world a message that they didn't know before. Even if only one person is touched, I've succeeded greatly. I used to experience writer's block all. the. time. When I watched this video, I sat down and thought about what my "why" was and I've had much greater success with writing now. Thank you so much, SPS! #chandlerbolt
@@isabellalambeth6552 that's so great to hear!! Thanks for sharing. Let us know how else we can help
I'm following your steps and my book is coming along! I am so excited about how quickly I'
m getting it done! Thank you for providing a map! It's work- but I went to a cabin in the woods for a week to GET RID OF MY EXCUSES and GET IT DONE!! Done is WAY better than perfect!!! I'm telling all my friends about you, and sharing your ideas and RUclips channel in my writing groups! Thank you, Chandler!
Amazing!! Way to take ownership and get it done - that is ALL you!! :)
Thanks for sharing the channel with others, Rebecca!
Great outline - Love the simplicity of the process.
My first book took 8 years to write. (pantsed the whole thing) my last novel 280,000 words took 8 months. (plotting) :)
WOW! What a difference! you must know a thing or two about outlining ;)
Thank you for this breakdown it definitely makes the goal of finishing a book a lot more achievable!
Ready and waiting for my call on Wednesday at noon!!!
yes!! Can't wait to chat with you and learn about your book and its goals!
Taking baby steps and glad I am
Have you checked out this video?
ruclips.net/video/kieAfi3hLEY/видео.html
Thank you for this video! I’m so glad I just found your channel! I started my book 6 months ago but keep getting side tracked. I hope one day it can be made into a Netflix film or even a movie. It’s non-fiction and it’s raw, reveling, romantic, edgy, and full of emotion stirring experiences. This is all set in a timeline that covers 3 generations. Important to note it will indicate it is “based on a true story”. It’s all in a word document and I hope to transfer it to some software and organize it. I’m very proud of it and eager to finish it.
Thanks for what you do!
Awesome video! Thanks for your presentation, dear Chandler. I've never published a book before, but have attempted to write some in a rough way. Hoping I'll be more focused and purposed now.
Great to hear!
@@selfpublishingTV With pleasure.
the purpose like you said , the " why " is the most important...your mind has to be clear !
Thanks for the great info. I love your direct and friendly style. You talk fast, so I don't have to use playback faster feature. LOL. And being from South Carolina, I really appreciate that! (I'm from Georgia)
You are very inspiring. As we know, taking your book from idea to reality is, or can be, intimidating. Your positive inspiration that it can be done is by far the most motivating part of your video. “Better done than perfect”
I really liked your video. It is upbeat, which helped me to think how to get started! And, I loved
that you talk fast paced so I didn't get bored. Making the outline was my favorite since that
is what I need to do.
Thank you!
I’m trying out your mind mapping exercise. This is new to me, but is fun.
Have you checked out this video?
ruclips.net/video/kieAfi3hLEY/видео.html
Nicely done Chandler! I'm in. Now it's time to block time and simply follow your steps. Thank you! D
Let us know how we can help! Have you talked with the team?
Great teaching! Thank you!
This was such a helpful book Chandler, thank you so much! I'm so excited to start my book now!
Thanks for your comment! Happy to read that!
We’re having a 3-day event in two weeks with many bestselling authors. Tickets at $47 and prices go up tomorrow.
If you’re interested in learning more from him: AuthorAdvantageLive.com
Discount link here: selfpublishing.com/vseghetto-AAL
Man there is so much that I didn’t consider thanks for the helpful tips man
Glad you found it helpful! Favorite tip?
i liked the mind mapping and dumpng all your ideas down and get them out!
awesome! Have you checked out this video?
ruclips.net/video/kieAfi3hLEY/видео.html
Which of the 21 steps is your favorite? Comment below and let us know! Any steps we missed?
Also, if you want to learn more in-depth about how to write a great book (and publish it), check it out here: selfpublishing.com/first-class
Thank you So much
My favorite part is where you tell us NOT to edit while you write!!
I love the mind mapping. It was SO helpful and brilliant to be able to create that and then my outline from that. It has been so easy writing from the outline.
@@SusanWilkins-NHA thanks!
MashAllah, may Allah bless you, I am so happy for RUclips suggested me your videos. InshaAllah, very soon I will start writing my first novel, your explanations are inspiring. I like all your steps . Thank you so much.
brilliant! i really needed this! i start now! thank you so much!
Great post! Really helpful
A source of motivation. Thank you I hit the subscribe button
I learned that "Done is better than perfect." I need to keep that in mind! Thanks for all the info!
I struggle with that too!! The first word is always the worst 😬
Biggest takeaway: Done is better than perfect!
I agree! This is something I implement in the company as well!
Thank you for your information!
This really does break it down and simplify it, so helpful
The video gives a clear explanation of how to author a book. The best I've seen or heard.
Great overview of all the steps needed! My favorite: Push past the "messy middle!"
thanks for sharing!
Have you checked out this video?
ruclips.net/video/kieAfi3hLEY/видео.html
This is the second time I listen to your talks. Chandler, you have a pleasant appearance and this has attracted me to you and feel very much at home with you. You're great. I have to learn a lot of things from you.
Thank you Chandler. I’m finally feeling confident enough to write. I’m scheduling my writing time today and going to follow the steps you outlined
how'd it go?
Excellent!!! Thanks much Chandler!
Thank you for sharing your knowledge. I struggle with depression, PTSD and physical issues due to a 24 year marriage to an abusive narcissist, now ex-husband, but I have faith that with the guidance you share I will be published by the end of 2021! Thank you for all you do and for letting your light shine! You're awesome! 💜
Awesome tips! thanks for sharing.
Great presentation, Chandler. Clear and Concise!
Very helpful. Getting started. No more excuses...I must make the time. I'm inspired to focus with these steps. Time to do ...8 years of talking abt it. Thanks!
Let us know how we can help!
self-publishingschool.com/apply
Chandler -I love your book and am working through it! Finishing my first draft! Love this video to compliment it!
Thank you for posting this super informative clip. I was thrilled to have some of this already accomplished and I'm excited to begin my journey. Happy New Year!
Great to hear! Book a call with the team and let’s see how we can help: selfpublishing.com/apply
This was sooooo helpful and has me really excited got get started! Thank you for offering your knowledge. I am truly appreciative!
Great to hear! Check out the Book Outline Template generator. Should be helpful
@@selfpublishingTV where is it???
The process works! Thanks, Chandler
I’ve just done your webinar it was brilliant thank you.
This was amazing, I first heard you speak @ Build Your Platform! Great stuff.
Well put together video with clear and concise steps to achieving the goal. Thank you!
i printed the entire pdf book. dedication. i missed my on-call appointment with you guys. the system is a big blegh for my head. i cant do it. im insomniac adhd/asd. but im doing heavy af research and notetaking/making and highlighting etc other books and this pdf. its awesomly thick, i just hope the wisdom within is the equivalent volume. thank you for this FREE pdf, even if most of it is inapplicable, ill know theres info in there that i cant get anywhere else. why? because it's self-publishing 101 from people my OWN age! woot woot
Great synopsis of the process and Chandler's style is quick and get through the content... just the right pacing to keep interest, but yet take some basic notes to help stay focused.
Thank you Chandler, I love your passion, knowledge and giving energy...
🙌
I’ll definitely start tapping into my experiences with overcoming trauma. Great tips.
Dear Chandler Bolt! you really told all the golden tips of book writing gained from your experiential learning.I am an educationist and also use to write articles and blogs but learned many new things as I am a beginner book writer .I am from Pakistan and wanted to write a story book for ECE level based on the poems written by one of our national poet and philosopher Dr.Muhammad Allama Iqbal. I love and enjoy working for young children and it has been a challenge for me to create a story book for children without an illustrator due to shortage of funds.But i did not stopped and use the pictures available on google and that's why the "MESSY MIDDLE" part of the video attracted me most as i did not give up having all challenges and shortage of knowledge on book writing.The phase -III part of the book guided me in many ways to work more effectively as per my experience and expertise and also got to know how to outline and making the draft of the book. Phase -4 and 5 of this video supported me as a sincere friend's advise who is surely YOU and at the end two incentives are like take away gifts from you.I hope i will get the free book and training too.
All the best wishes.
Huma Mir
Awesome! Gonna need to watch and absorb this a few times, but time to get to it!
Great content Chandler, I have found your work very helpful!
That was extremely helpful and easy yo follow. Didn't feel like a boring school lecture. Thank you so much!
Glad it was helpful and entertaining :)
How great is this, I already had the audiobook in my library!
Of Published? Amazing!
i've been wanting to finish writing a book. This video is truly helpful. Thanks so much for the very clear insights.
Awesome! Book a call with the team and let’s see how we can help: selfpublishing.com/apply
This video is golden! I have clear steps to move forward. I'm in the messy middle right now and just sticking it out.
I will do this in a few days. Setting the schedule ASAP. Thanks for this.
Very thorough and helpful instruction on self publishing. I love the part about how to get the book done fast.
Thanks, Chandler! I can do this. You are very real and I like you. Thats a big check off on my list!
Thanks a lot for useful information. very helpful i'll try to do ,
These guide is awesome. Thank you for sharing!
Excellent Suggestions. I'll follow up with more of your great info. At age 88 I have so many things I've experienced to share. Many are written down already.
Your webinar too is pretty effective, I see the "who has done it friend" in you Chandler
After you pointed out the "Don't edit while you write," I now realize why it takes me so long. That's a major thing for me that gets in my way and I totally understand what your saying. Another thing I have trouble with is that "middle mess" you describe and which currently still stuck on. I,m 18 and I've been writing paper books with staples ever since I can remember. It seems so hard at times because you just want to get it perfect, you want people to read it and be affected by it. After trying for the last 3 1/2 years to accomplish this I have scheduled training. I believe you can help me.
Purple cow? What a sneaky idea. LOVE IT!
Writing can always improve, cheers for this
Hi Chandler, I am glad I found you. I think your guidance will prove to be exactly what I need to get a book published to build my law firm's business.
Amazing! Book a call with the team and let’s see how we can help you: self-publishingschool.com/apply
As a Life Coach myself, I'm all about finding a purpose and finding my "why". These are two super important elements to achieve anything for if there is motivation and the reason is strong, nothing is impossible, including writing a book. Great vid, Chandler. TY :)
Thanks!
I watched the video, I took a lot of notes..I. watched the entire video from beginning to the end, I can assure you that I'll be in touch thank you.. Very Helpful
Writing a book doesn't have to be complicated. Thanks to Chandler and the SPS team for all your guidance!
Very nice clear message!!
Chandler continually brings solid expert knowledge on authoring and launching a book.
I immensely appreciate this pretty much helpful video. ☀️
This video was well done! An applaudable presentation - full of energy with content that was detailed but easy to grasp.
Thank you!
very nice tips. thanks for sharing.
You’re welcome! What kind of book are you writing?
This was great. Format and launch team
Great information. Thank you.
Excellent, concise!
Useful tips.
Ummm this video is amazing! Thank you. I never thought about having a launch team! SO smart!
Great to hear!
Super helpful. I'm just starting my SPS book writing process and this was great. Thank you!
Have you checked out this video?
ruclips.net/video/kieAfi3hLEY/видео.html
Your enthusiastic presentation was so inspiring this morning as last evening I found myself beginning the process and to have watched this video to have more inspiration not knowing about your school actually got me sitting in front of the laptop glued to the screen thank you
🙌
Very easy to follow steps. Great instruction. Thanks!
very helpful step by step process