How to Self Publish Step-by-Step

If you know you've written the next bestseller but you just can't find a publisher for it, it might be time to self publish your book. When you self publish, you directly produce the book, market, and sell it all yourself. Self publishing a book can be a lot of hard work, but it can also be incredibly rewarding. Learn how to self publish a book in just a few easy steps.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

1. Write the best book you can. This step may sound obvious, but good writing is the number one necessity to self publish a successful book. Choose a topic that you have a unique perspective on, or write a story that really resonates with you. Do not try to self publish your first draft. Revise several times and give your manuscript to others to proofread and critique. Work hard on your manuscript before you attempt to self publish. When the manuscript is finally ready, after months of hard work, you are ready to start the process of self publishing a book, step by step.

2. Look at titles with similar themes or topics. How are you covering the information that is different from how it has already been done. Look for an original angle. When you self publish a book you want to make sure that you are bringing something new to the table.

3. Consider submitting your manuscript to agents. Having an agent will mean that you will go with a traditional method of publishing through a large publishing house, but it will also mean more exposure for your book. When you self publish you deal with everything yourself, but having an agent will mean having someone on your side to help you out with the publishing process. If you decide to try to get an agent you will want to send out a query letter that fits the agent's submission guidelines, which can be found in Publisher's Marketplace or on the agent's website.

4. Reseach print on demand companies. Find the vanity press that fits your needs for your self publishing desires. Compare rates and ask for samples of finished work. Choose the most flexible option that charges the lowest up front rates and offers the most professional looking finished product.

5. Place your book. List the book that you self publish with online retailers like amazon.com. Go into bookstores and ask if they will put the book you self publish on shelves. Talk to local stores to see if they ever feature local authors in their stores.

6. Promote your book. Hold book readings and book signings. Go online and find the niche market that the book you self publish best fits into. Connect with your target audience by creating a website. Consider blogging on the same subject you self publish on in order to create a loyal audience.