You’re dragging along as a writer and you’re doing pretty well. You’re making a comfortable living from your skills – and working hard for every cent. But, wouldn’t it be nice to start earning some passive income? Wouldn’t it be great to create something with the skills that you already possess (writing) that will keep on generating income month after month?

Maybe you’re not at the point in your career where you’re able to just write up a full-length book. That’s okay because there are some low-or-no-cost digital products that you can make right now, and sell on Amazon, your blog, your website, or wherever else.

E-Books or E-Guides

When you think of an e-book, you probably immediately begin to picture self-published novellas on Kindle and that may not something you would like to get into. That’s good because that’s not what I’m talking about. I’m talking about creating a small e-book or a step-by-step guide that teaches readers how to do something in your industry or niche. For example, just a couple of weeks ago I was asked to write an e-book on how to successfully write a query letter that will lead to assignments. It’s being sold on a blog that caters to helping writers make more money with their skills.

Reports and White Papers

You may already be proficient in writing white papers and reports, especially if you freelance for businesses, so why not make some extra money with those skills in your own industry? Creating white papers or reports can take very little time and they can be used for many different things. Add them to your mailing list or use them as an extra to entice potential clients to buy more products from you.

Checklists or Worksheets

Worksheets and checklists are by far one of my favorite digital products. They allow you to share some of your tips and knowledge with your readers. They make perfect extras and many people love them. Like reports, they also help readers to remember you and you can even sell them as small e-books.

E-courses

Some people get scared by the term. However, it’s fairly simple. If you are an expert (or very knowledgeable) about something, you can create an e-course on that topic, and generate extra income!

Getting started is easy, too. All you have to do is possess a little technical knowledge, as there are many online services, including CourseCraft.net, that will walk you through the entire process. E-courses can help you expand your reach, build deep connections, and create a solid new income stream.

Slideshows

Most writers don’t even think to sell slideshows. The reason is probably because, unlike the other things listed, slideshows do not generate income directly. However, they are a great opportunity to get more eyes on you and your work. They can attract clients in the future so it’s definitely worth it to consider. Creating a slideshow is as easy as three steps:

1. Write up your slideshow in Word or OpenOffice.
2. Convert it to one PDF file.
3. Upload to Slideshare.com.

Although you may need some assistance in how to go about creating some of these digital products, you shouldn’t be intimidated. When it’s all set and done, the only major skill that you need to create these products are writing. If you don’t give up, and focus on promoting your new digital products, you’re sure to succeed.

Reginald Gates is a content writer who has been freelance writing full-time for quite a while. He has written for several publications and has been featured in The Review Journal. He enjoys making new friends and is active on Twitter at @reginald_gates.