- The first step in getting a novel published is to complete it. Long gone are the days when outlines submitted to publishers are accepted with healthy advances given to complete the work. Although an established author may work this way, for the most part, a completed work is necessary. Once the novel is finished, proofed for grammatical errors and a search of copyright is performed, an author then finds an agent to handle her novel. Many authors purchase the "Writer's Market" handbook to find out what perspective publishers are buying and the guidelines for submission.
- If an author is not already represented by an agent, he will send inquiry letters to both agents and perspective publishers as to the interest of his novel. Once they inquiry letters are sent, an author plays the waiting game. An agent acts as a liaison for the author, contacting perspective publishers to try to make a deal for her client.
- If there is interest in a novel, a publisher will make an offer to publish the novel. An agent will negotiate the deal for his client, negotiating the amount for an advance, the percentage points on the back end and any stipulations to promote the novel through appearances and book signings. From here, the novel's cover design art is chosen and the font, spacing and paper stock are chosen. Once this is proofed, galley copies are published for proofing purposes. Once the novel's proof is approved, the novel then goes to print, is given an ISBN number and sent to distributors.
