In self-publishing you are the publisher. You decide the content, the price and the rights, and you buy the services needed to turn a manuscript into a book.
The steps
- Finish the manuscript. Get it to the stage where you are willing to have others read it.
- Edit and proofread. See book editing and proofreading.
- Design the cover and interior. See cover design and formatting.
- Get an ISBN. Each format needs its own. See our ISBN guide.
- Choose how to print. Short run, bulk or print on demand.
- List the book. See marketplace listing.
- Promote it. See author marketing.
What you control
Price, edition, format, rights and marketing. You also carry the cost and the risk.
What to watch for
- Rights. Get any agreement in writing and read what rights you are giving away.
- Royalty calculation. Ask exactly how it is calculated and paid.
- Hidden extras. Ask for an itemised list of what is and is not included.
- Promises of sales. No publisher can guarantee sales.
Do it all yourself, or buy help?
You can hire individual services or take a package. See Zenjaura’s publishing packages and self-publishing services.