Think you have a great idea for a book? You don't – not until you have a great idea for a book proposal. In too many instances, the real difference between a successful author and a wannabe writer is neither writing talent nor content expertise – it's the ability to sell the book to a publisher.

The following are the essential components of a successful book proposal. Some elements, such as the table of contents and a sample chapter, are obvious. But others, especially those regarding the book's positioning and its marketing platform, are frequently overlooked--to the author's disadvantage. To sell your book, you have to show a publisher why your book will have sales appeal. Here's how:

Define Your Book

Begin with a page that literally states what your book is and why it's needed. The first step is to make your positioning statement. Go beyond a mere description of content or subject matter to articulate the audience appeal: yours is the "x" book for "y" kind of people.

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