If it's a religious or spiritual book you want to write, you have seen there are several styles and tones to consider. The techniques you apply depend on the type of book, your audience, and whether you are writing more as an authority or from personal experiences and beliefs. The following exercises are designed to help you explore these alternative writing styles.

EXERCISE 1

Decide upon a specific subject involving religion or spirituality with which you are knowledgeable or can obtain information through a bit of research. Pick a topic that will address a contemporary and fairly general readership. Generate a page or two of notes on the subject. Some examples: should priests be allowed to marry; techniques for successful proselytizing; connecting with nature.

Write a page or so on the topic with the aim of informing the reader and as a writer with a great deal of knowledge in the subject-perhaps even an authority. Avoid any anecdotes or anything personal about you.

EXERCISE 2

You can pick a new subject or use the same subject from Exercise 1. but this time, play the role of a writer who is not a recognized expert and again focus on informing the reader. Feel free to disclose anything about yourself or the experience of others but keep in mind, the purpose is to inform.

EXERCISE 3

Follow Exercise 2, except while being informative, your goal is to persuade and/or inspire the reader.