Writing

Step one: Start small. Fictional short stories are very popular and there is a market for them, particularly in women's magazines. Research the market thoroughly to see what sells, to whom and which themes seem popular. Good romantic fiction sells particularly well, but there is also a market for science fiction, horror and detective stories.

Send your story to the editor and keep the original on file. Remember, you will not be successful every time, but you will build up useful contacts.

Step two: Build up. There are thousands of magazines on the newsstands, dedicated to a huge array of subjects.

Find out which publications best suit your interests and talents, from photography to windsurfing and come up with an idea for a short article. Research your subject thoroughly and approach the editor with a précis of your idea.

If you get a commission, stick to the brief and make sure you file your copy on time. If you do a good job, follow up with another idea.

Step three: Specialise. You don't have to produce an 80,000-word novel to make money. Sometimes it is good just to find a niche. You could, for example, specialise in writing greeting card verses. Research a list of card producers in the Writers and Artists Yearbook, www.writersandartists.co.uk and then do your homework by researching the market carefully to see what sells. There is a huge variety of themes for different occasions and a good sense of humour is a definite advantage.

Step four: Use your skills. Capitalise on a subject in which you already have an in-depth knowledge by devising and writing a correspondence course. Many people are keen to improve their own knowledge and will pay someone to help them. Speak to the trade body relevant to your skill for advice on marketing your course. Alternatively, compile a collection of questions and answers in a quiz book dedicated to your selected subject. If it is a consumer friendly subject such as sport, consider approaching gift shops as a potential market.

Step five: Start an e-zine. There are lots of opportunities for you to start your own electronic magazine on the web and if you can specialise in a subject without much competition you could be on to a winner. Make sure you regularly update the content and, as you gain a following, you can make money through subscription-only content and third party advertising.

Step six: The world is your oyster. Use your skills to produce a travel guide, perhaps on where to find the most important places of historical interest locally. Make sure you research your subject thoroughly and give your potential readers some important new facts.

After printing your guide, market it to bookshops in the area of interest and tourist information centres.

* Teena Lyons is the former consumer editor of the Sunday Mirror. Teena's views represent her own opinions and are for general information only. Always seek independent financial advice.