Who writes for TAB Books?

Our authors are typically educators, engineers, and technicians, but experienced amateurs and enthusiasts may have the requisite skills, too.

The main requirements are a deep understanding of the subject matter coupled with the ability to write clearly and well. In addition, TAB writers often need to take digital photographs and provide charts and schematics to accompany the text.

If you think you have what it takes, and you have have the desire to write a book, here’s what we look for in a proposal:

Title/Subtitle: If you are pitching a book to be published in one of our established series, you should first familiarize yourself with other books in the series. If the book you are proposing does not fit a series, suggest a title that accurately and compellingly describes the subject of your book.
 
Sales Handle: This is sometimes called the “elevator pitch.” In one or two sentences, you need to be able to explain what it is that makes your book unique and marketable

About the Book: In two or three paragraphs, describe the book in greater detail and explain how it solves a problem for the potential customer

Features: In four or five bullet points, describe the most important features of the book, especially any that set it apart from other books

Audience: Zero in on the specific market the book targets. Who is your ideal reader? 

Benefits to the Customer: In four or five bullet points, list the main benefits the reader will take away from this book. What will the reader be able to do after reading the book that he or she couldn’t do before?
 
About the Author: Give a one- or two-paragraph description of yourself with strong emphasis on your qualifications to write the book. Mention previous published books or magazines or journals for which you have written articles. Be sure to include your hometown and state.

Provide a detailed table of contents and a writing sample (preferrably a sample chapter).

Address proposals to the TAB editor: roger_stewart@mcgraw-hill.com