Ever wanted to self-publish? Here are the seven steps to self-publishing.
-
Write Your Story: This goes without saying, but writing is a process in and of itself. One of the most helpful tools I have found recently is Write Your Best Novel: A Workbook to Guide You from Concept to Publication. It walks you through the pre-writing, writing, and post-writing process.
- Self-edit, edit, and edit some more: After your final draft, take a small break from your writing, then come back with an open mind. Read through it to check for inconsistencies, plot lines, character, and timeline issues. After one round, go back for a second, third, and even fourth edit to clean up grammar, spelling, and word choice.
- Send your book to an editor: Make note that not all editors work the same way. You pay for what you get. There is quite a range of prices from .01 to .05 cents per word or more.
Here is a list of the different types of edits:
- Developmental
- Line item
- Copyediting
- Proofreading
You can pick and choose which, if any, of the four types of edits you want done. That is completely up to you. There are many online platforms to help you find a freelance editor, such as Reedsy or Fiverr.
Here is a helpful article on self-editing software The 8 Best Free Book Editing Software for Self-Published Authors in 2025 I'd recommend.
4. Book Cover and/or Artwork and Formatting: This is a big step. Like editors, you can find a cover artist through platforms like the ones mentioned above, including help with formatting, or you can design your own through Canva or Ingram Spark.
Formatting programs, such as Atticus, can convert your doc to a formatted book.
5. Publish/printing platform: There are several platforms to use to print your book. The most popular ones are Amazon KDP, Ingram Sparks, and Lulu Direct.
6. If you wish to have help with steps 3-5: If steps 3-5 are overwhelming, you can use platforms such as Barnes and Noble and Lulu Direct. There, you can pay for them to edit, design your book cover, and help with formatting.
7. Market and Sell: Now that you've published your book, it's time to market it. Marketing could include direct distribution platforms and Shopify stores that cater to Indie and self-published authors, such as Night Nook Books.
Conclusion: Although it may seem daunting, self-publishing is possible. There are dozens of options and tools to utilize through the process. What has helped you through your process?
