How to write and publish a scientific paper - Barbara Gastel, Robert A. Day 2022

How to write a book chapter
How to write a book chapter or a book
Doing other writing for publication

I’m writing a book. I’ve got the page numbers done.

—Steven Wright

How to write a book chapter

Congratulations! You have been invited to write a chapter in a multiauthored book. Here is one more sign that you have attained visibility in your field. Enjoy the compliment, and accept the invitation if you have the time to prepare the chapter well and submit it promptly. If you cannot write the chapter, recommend a peer if possible.

If you agree to write a chapter, be sure that the editor provides thorough instructions. Follow the instructions carefully; only if chapters are of the proper scope, length, and format, and only if they are submitted on time, can the book be published without undue difficulty and delay. If events arise that may slow submission of your chapter, tell the editor immediately so plans can be revised if needed.

In many cases, writing a book chapter is much like writing a review paper. If you are writing a chapter that summarizes knowledge on a topic, follow relevant advice from Chapter 23, “How to Write a Review Paper.” In particular, plan the chapter carefully. Time invested in organizing the chapter can save much time in writing later.

After submitting the chapter, you may receive queries from the copy editor (for example, requests for clarification of points). You also may receive an edited manuscript, and then page proofs to review. So as not to disrupt the production schedule, take care to respond by the deadlines you are given. If you will be unreachable for a substantial time while a chapter is in press, tell the editor so alternative plans can be made.