You’ve just started writing your first self-help book and now you’re wondering – Uh, how many pages is typical in a self-help book?
Understanding the self-help page count range can be crucial for aspiring authors looking to craft their own impactful work.
I’ve got you covered! In this post, we’ll dive into the factors that influence the length of a self-help book, and offer guidance on how to determine the right page count for your own writing goals.
Is 40,000 Words Enough for a Self-Help Book?
Absolutely! When it comes to self-help books, the relationship between word count and page count can be quite dynamic. How many pages is typical in a self-help book? While there’s no one-size-fits-all answer, a 40,000-word count translates to a standard book length of approximately 160 pages., (Self-help books typically range anywhere from 100 to 300 pages.)
Book math: 1 page = 250 words. (Approximately.)
Here’s another interesting factoid: self-help readers often prefer shorter books! My first self-help book was only 20,000 words, but even more than a decade later, it remains my best-selling nonfiction book.
It’s important to remember that the actual number of pages in your finished book will vary based on factors such as font size, formatting, and layout. What’s most important is that you solve your reader’s problem. Can you do that in 100 pages? Great! Will you need 40,000 or 60,000 or 100,000 words to solve your reader’s problem? Do whatever it takes. Your page count isn’t super important – but solving your reader’s pain points is.
How do you structure a self-help book?
When it comes to crafting the structure of a self-help book, it’s all about laying a solid foundation. That means starting with a compelling introduction to hook your readers and guide them through the journey ahead. Then, break down your content into clear and organized chapters, each focusing on a specific topic or concept.
To help you get started, don’t forget to grab my free self-help book outline template, designed to streamline your writing process and keep your ideas on track!
How do you structure chapters in a self-help book?
I go into this in much greater detail in Write a Self-help Book in 14 Days: The proven, step-by-step plan to easily write your nonfiction book—from the bestselling author coach – but it generally depends on the chapter.
Your introduction chapter should be fairly short and identify the reader’s problem as well as why you’re qualified to solve it.
Your chapters that explain your plan to solve the reader’s issue (what I call the Action Plan) should:
- Cover one step of your plan at a time
- Build on previous steps
- Contain lots of subheads to help pull the reader through the book
- Include stories and case studies
- End with either key take-aways or a homework assignment.
What is the standard size of a self-help book?
When it comes to self-help books, size does matter – but not in the way you might think! Typically, self-help books come in a variety of sizes, ranging from pocket-sized paperbacks to larger hardcovers. The standard trim size for most self-help books falls within the 5.5 x 8.5 to 6 x 9-inch range, but don’t let that limit your creativity!
Ultimately, the size of your self-help book should align with your content and audience expectations, so feel free to think outside the box (or the bookshelf!) when making your selection.
Pro tip: If you’re planning on self-publishing your self-help book, be sure that whatever trim size you chose is accepted by both Amazon KDP and Ingram Spark — otherwise you’ll need multiple sizes of your book cover which is not only more expensive and time consuming — it’s a pain in the neck.
Both 6 x 9″ and 5.5 x 8.5″ are standard sizes in the U.S., so no worries there.
How long does it take to write a 40,000 word book?
So, you’ve got 40,000 words swirling around in your head, eager to be put onto paper – but how long will it take to make that happen?
Well, the answer depends on a variety of factors, including your writing speed, schedule, and level of motivation.
Read this next: How long does it take to write a selfhelp book?
Some authors can crank out a 40,000-word book in a matter of a couple of weeks, while others might take several months to reach the finish line. The key is to set realistic goals and deadlines, and then stick to them like glue (or maybe more like sticky notes!).
With dedication and creativity, you’ll have that self-help book written faster than you can say “bestseller!”
Want to write faster? Be sure to download my writing a selfhelp book template.
Is there a course for writing a selfhelp book?
Of course there is! I’m here to make sure you get your business-growing, income-scaling, expertise-building self-help book done in record time!
You can learn more about it right here: Is there a course for writing a selfhelp book?
You can write your self-help book!
Well, there you have it – the ins and outs of figuring out the page count for your self-help book.
Remember, it’s not just about hitting a specific number of pages; it’s about delivering valuable content that resonates with your readers. Whether your book ends up being 100 pages or 400 pages, what matters most is the impact it has on those who read it. So, as you embark on your writing journey, keep these insights in mind, set your goals, and let your creativity flow.
Ready to dive in headfirst? Don’t forget to check out my Bestseller Academy Write a Self-Help Book in 30 Days course – it’s the ultimate guide to turning your self-help book dreams into reality, FAST!
You’ve got this! 🎉
