Before you hit “submit,” it’s important to understand the three main ways to publish a book:
Traditional Publishing
You submit your manuscript to a publishing house—often through a literary agent. If accepted, they handle editing, design, marketing, and distribution. In return, they pay royalties (and sometimes an advance). It’s competitive, but offers wide reach and professional support Publish my book.
Self-Publishing
You take control of the entire process—writing, editing, cover design, formatting, marketing, and distribution. Platforms like Amazon KDP, IngramSpark, and Draft2Digital allow you to publish eBooks and print-on-demand books easily. You keep full rights and higher royalties but carry all responsibility.
Hybrid Publishing
This model blends elements of traditional and self-publishing. You pay for services like editing and design, but get guidance, support, and wider distribution in return. Be cautious—some hybrid publishers are more reputable than others.
2. Prepare Your Manuscript
No matter which route you take, your book needs to be polished:
Revise and proofread multiple times
Consider professional editing (developmental, copyediting, and proofreading)
Ask for beta reader feedback before final edits
This step is essential. A poorly edited book—no matter how great the story—is hard to sell.
3. Design and Format Professionally
Covers matter. So does interior formatting.
Hire a professional cover designer
Format your book for eBook (EPUB, MOBI) and print (PDF) using tools like Vellum, Reedsy, or Atticus
Make sure your book is readable on all devices and in print
Even the best content can be overlooked if the design isn’t professional.
4. Choose the Right Platform
Some popular publishing platforms include:
Amazon Kindle Direct Publishing (KDP) – for eBook and print
IngramSpark – for wider print distribution
Barnes & Noble Press, Apple Books, Kobo Writing Life – other major retailers
Many authors publish on multiple platforms to maximize reach.
5. Publish and Promote
Hitting “publish” isn’t the end—it’s the beginning of your book’s life.
Create a launch plan: build an email list, plan social media posts, schedule promotions
Reach out to book bloggers, podcasts, and reviewers
Consider paid ads (Amazon, Facebook, BookBub)
Get your book into readers’ hands through giveaways or ARCs (Advance Reader Copies)
Final Thoughts
The dream to “publish my book” is entirely within your reach. Whether you want the backing of a traditional publisher or the independence of self-publishing, the most important step is this: keep moving forward.
Publishing is no longer a gatekept industry. With the right tools, preparation, and determination, your story can find its audience.
