To most authors, the pinnacle of literary success is having a standard book deal. But with the internet these days, you no longer need a publisher to sell your Book. Self-publishing sites have given authors full ownership of their work, faster printing, and greater returns on their earnings.
If you want to do it yourself, this is how you get your Book Published without a publishing company.
Step 1: Finish and Edit Your Manuscript
Your Book is your ticket to success. Get your content complete, perfect, and engaging first before you consider how your Book is being published.
Start editing yourself, but do not overedit. It is advisable that you outsource editing to a professional editor because even experienced writers tend to make mistakes in their work. A polished manuscript not only makes it simple to read your work but also makes you a better writer to others.
Key Tips:
- Edit your manuscript carefully.
- Use a professional proofreader for final proof.
Step 2: Choose Your Format – eBook, Print, or Both
One of the greatest things about self-publishing is having the ability to be flexible. You can potentially print your Book as an eBook, print book, or both.
- eBooks are inexpensive and ubiquitous at the same time. It is easy to publish electronically on platforms such as Amazon KDP and Smashwords.
- Print Books are for individuals who desire a hard copy. There are companies like IngramSpark and KDP Print that offer print-on-demand, which means there is no inventory that must be stored in stock.
If in doubt, begin with an eBook to test interest first, and then print afterwards.
Step 3: Format Your Book Professionally
There is a bit of formatting if you want your Book Published successfully. Both the eBook and print need some sort of adjustment in the format. The eBooks need to be compatible with devices such as Kindle and Nook, and the print books need to be careful about the margins, font, and page numbers.
You can do it yourself with a program such as Scrivener or Word, but having it professionally done ensures professionally looking output. Sites also have formatting functions integrated right into them to make it easier.
Main Tips:
- Double-check for the correct eBook and print format.
- Use professional services if you lack technical skills.
Step 4: Create a Compelling Cover
Your cover is your readers’ initial impression—and it can be your victory or your downfall. A professional, genre-specific cover places your Book on the shelf.
You can hire a designer from sites like Fiverr or 99designs. For self-publishing platforms, make sure their cover is professionally designed and the right size.
Core Tips:
- Invest in a professional cover that relates to the theme of your Book.
- Refrain from using temporary fixes unless you have design capabilities.
Step 5: Get an ISBN and Protect Your Rights
You will require an ISBN (International Standard Book Number) so that you can get your Book Published. It will title your Book for libraries and bookstores. Most websites, such as Amazon KDP, provide ISBNs free of cost, but you can buy your own from ISBN agencies as well.
Copyright is automatic in most countries, but you can further safeguard it legally when you register it, which is especially important if you want to distribute it worldwide.
Step 6: Select the Most Appropriate Self-Publishing Platform
There are websites that facilitate self-publishing:
- Amazon KDP – Best for eBooks and print-on-demand products.
- IngramSpark – Most appropriate for wide distribution, i.e., bookstores and libraries.
- Smashwords – Distributes your eBook to retailers like Apple Books and Kobo.
- Lulu offers print-on-demand with global distribution.
Research the rate of pay, payment procedure, and acceptance policy of each location before you go.
Step 7: Publish and Promote Your Book
Once you have everything ready—Book formatted, business-looking cover, ISBN—you can get your Book Published directly to the site you’ve chosen. Most sites have easy submission forms.
Publication is just half the battle. To sell your Book, you require a good marketing strategy:
- Create an author website and social media presence.
- Email newsletters and book blog promotion.
- Provide free chapters or temporary price cuts to attract readers.
Key Tips:
- Finish your pre-launch campaign.
- Respond consistently to readers to build a loyal readership.
Conclusion
You can have your Book Published without the assistance of a conventional publisher with a solid plan. Self-publishing puts you at the helm of your content, timelines, and royalties. From the finalization of your manuscript to your book marketing, every aspect counts.
Even though patience and time are what it takes, the returns of self-publishing are worth it. When you self-publish an eBook or a printed Book, and even both, you own the success.