The Ultimate Guide to Self-Publishing

Self-publishing has become an increasingly popular option for authors in recent years. But is it the right choice for you and your book? This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know about self-publishing in 2023.

Recommended:

How to Self-Publish a Book

What is Self-Publishing?

Self-publishing simply means publishing your book independently, without the involvement of a traditional publishing house. The author takes on all the tasks and costs associated with publishing, including editing, design, printing, marketing, and distribution. With the right approach, self-publishing can be an affordable and accessible way to share your book with the world.

Why Self-Publish?

Here are some of the top reasons authors choose to self-publish:

► Full creative control. You decide everything from the cover design to the release date. You call all the shots.

► Higher royalty percentages. Self-published authors typically earn 60-80% royalties on print book sales and up to 70% on ebook sales. Traditional publishing royalties are around 8-15%.

► Faster time to market. You can get your book published in a matter of months, rather than the years it takes with traditional publishing.

► Global distribution. Today’s self-publishing platforms make it easy to distribute your print and digital books worldwide.

► Retain rights. You keep the rights to your intellectual property, rather than signing them over to a publisher.

► Build your brand. Self-publishing allows you to establish and promote your author brand.

Is Self-Publishing Worth It?

As with any major decision, it’s important to consider both the advantages and drawbacks before moving forward.

Pros:

✅ More control over the entire process, from editing to pricing

✅ Faster publishing timeline

✅ Higher royalty rates

✅ Global distribution potential

✅ Opportunity to build an author brand and platform

Cons:

❌ You bear all the upfront costs, like editing, cover design, and marketing

❌ No advance payment like with traditional publishing deals

❌ You handle all marketing yourself

❌ No distribution support from a publisher

❌ Little chance of getting your book into physical bookstores

Traditional Publishing

For many authors, pursuing a traditional publishing deal is ideal. But breaking in can be very difficult. Here are some of the most common obstacles:

Submission Process

Traditional publishers only accept submissions through literary agents. And agents reject over 90% of submissions they receive. It’s very hard for new authors to get representation.

Need for an Agent

Most publishers won’t even consider your manuscript unless you have an agent. But catching the attention of agents is hugely competitive.

Long Wait Times

The submission process with agents and publishers is very slow. It can take 6 months or longer before you get a “yes” or “no.”

Lack of Control

Once you sign a publishing contract, you lose creative control over important elements like the title, cover design, and release date.

Income Earnings

Self-Publishing vs. Traditional

One of the biggest considerations for any author is potential income. Here’s an overview of typical royalties from each publishing path:

Self-Publishing Royalties

– eBooks: 60-70%

– Print books: 60-80%

Trad Publishing Royalties

– Hardcover: 10-15%

– Paperback: 7-10%

– eBooks: 25%

While traditional publishing offers an advance upfront, successful self-published authors can earn much higher royalties long term.

Self-Publishing FAQs

If you’re considering self-publishing, chances are you still have some big questions. Here are answers to some of the most common ones:

How Do I Choose the Right Self-Publishing Platform?

The best self-publishing platforms make it simple to publish and distribute professional-quality books. Leading options include:

– Amazon KDP

– IngramSpark

– Lulu

– Smashwords

Look for platforms that offer paperback and ebook distribution, along with global reach. Make sure your books will be included in major retail channels.

How Do I Market a Self-Published Book?

– Leverage social media by building your author platform.

– Run discount promotions and advertise on Amazon and Facebook.

– Build your email list and send regular updates to subscribers.

– Pursue reviews on high-traffic sites like Amazon and Goodreads.

– Pitch your book to relevant bloggers for coverage.

– Identify your ideal readers and engage those communities.

Recommended:

Build and Boost Your Author Platform

How Do I Get Reviews for My Self-Published Book?

– Provide free review copies through services like NetGalley.

– Run a Goodreads giveaway.

– Personally request reviews from book bloggers in your genre.

– Encourage existing readers to leave honest reviews.

– Avoid buying fake reviews – focus on legitimate strategies.

Recommended:

Where to Get Free Book Reviews?

How Do I Protect My Self-Published Book’s Copyright? 

– Your work is automatically copyrighted when fixed in tangible form. But you can further establish legal protection by registering your copyright with the U.S. Copyright Office.

– Use copyright notices and legal disclaimers in your book.

– Enroll in Google’s Partner Program to defend against piracy.

– Monitor infringement and be prepared to send takedown notices if your work is copied illegally.

What’s the Best Way to Publish My Book?

There’s no one-size-fits-all approach to publishing. While self-publishing is faster and offers higher income potential, traditional publishing provides valuable distribution and marketing support.

The right path depends entirely on your specific book, audience, and career goals. Understanding all your options will help you make the best choice.

The Future of Publishing

Self-publishing has already reshaped the industry. This disruption will only continue as more authors take advantage of quick, affordable self-publishing options and leverage online marketing.

At the same time, traditional publishing houses provide vital curation, distribution at scale, and major branding power. The publishing models will likely coevolve, providing more choice for authors.

Hybrid approaches are also emerging, like boutique imprint partnerships for established self-published authors. The dividing lines will blur even further in coming years.

Next Steps: Get Your Manuscript Ready for Success

If self-publishing seems like the best fit for your book, it’s time to get your manuscript ready for publication and promotion.

But before you click that publish button, be sure your book is as polished and professional as possible. Don’t skip key steps that could undermine your book’s success.

Get an unbiased assessment from a professional editor. Many self-published books fall short with sloppy editing, formatting errors, and confusing branding.

That’s where Writerful Books manuscript assessment and evaluation services comes in. Our team of publishing insiders and editors will evaluate your complete manuscript and provide actionable feedback to maximize your book’s potential.

We’ll assess elements like:

– Editorial issues

– Market viability

– Comparable titles

– Cover and title recommendations

– Metadata and categorization

A pre-publication manuscript assessment or evaluation is one of the smartest investments you can make as a self-publishing author. Don’t miss this opportunity to perfect every detail before release.

Don’t leave your publication dreams to chance – get your manuscript assessed by an experienced book editor at Writerful Books!

Have you finished writing your manuscript, but are unsure what to do next or need professional advice on whether it is ready to be submitted to an agent or publisher? Or have you exhausted all feedback avenues such as family and friends or even beta readers and are ready for practical advice from an industry professional?

Our manuscript assessment and evaluation services provide unparalleled reliability and practical support to unpublished writers from Australia, Canada, Ireland, UK and the USA. Our team of editors are committed to helping you unlock the full potential of your book. Our trusted, professional manuscript assessments and appraisals will give you the insight you need to identify areas where further development is required and move your manuscript one step closer to publication.

Recommended:

Why Choose our Manuscript Assessment Service?

How a Manuscript Evaluation Can Land a Literary Agent!

Request a Quote!