Steps to Getting Published
A step-by-step guide
I'll assume you have the manuscript of your book typed into a word processor. If your manuscript is hand written or typed with a tripewriter typewriter - Oops, you really need to word process it and save it in docx format. Use a word processor such as Microsoft Word, Google Docs or Writer from Open/Libre Office. Each will allow you to use styles and save in docx format. Not got a computer? Try using one at your local library.
Outline of the steps you need to follow.
Click each step to get more details.
Traditional Publishing
- Find a literary agent.
- Wait for your agent to find a publisher.
- Work with the publisher's editor to finalise editing.
- Work with the publisher's cover designer.
- Approve draft book copies.
- Wait for publication date.
- Follow publisher guidance for book promotion.
On the face of it Traditional publishing seems simpler BUT agents and publishers are not easy to find and the timescale involved can be up to two years if you do find an agent and they find a publisher.
Self-Publishing
- Decide to produce paper books and ebooks.
- Decide on the physical size of your paper book.
- Produce a master copy of your paper book in docx format.
- Produce a master copy of your paper book in PDF format.
- Produce a book description.
- Produce a cover image for your paper book
- Select a print-on-demand service and submit your paper book PDF document.
- Decide on a book price
- Inspect the proof copy of your paper book and either make corrections or approve it for publication.
- Produce a master copy of your ebook in docx format.
- Produce a master copy of your ebook in Epub format.
- Produce a cover image for your ebook using the front cover of your paper book cover.
- Decide if you want to make your ebook exclusive to Amazon or if you want to publish wide.
- Decide on an ebook price.
- Create an account at Amazon KDP
- Publish your ebook at Amazon KDP and other retailers if you are publishing wide.
- Start work on promoting your ebook