** Consult with a literary agent **
The first thing you will want to do before self publishing your novel is to talk to a literary agent or publishing consultant. Even if it is just a one time consultation, the literary agent or publishing consultant will help you determine the realistic marketability of your novel. (S)he will also be able to give you an overview or the time frame involved to publish the book as well as advice onto best methods of distribution. Although this consultation is not 100% necessary, it is well worth paying a one time consultation in advance rather than to waste months of time with unrealistic expectations.
** Look into print on demand self publishing services online **
The next step is to search online for print (POD) on demand publishers. There are many out there. The advantage of print on demand self publishing is that you only pay for copies of books as they are ordered. You do not have to pay for a large printing of your novel up front.
Look up several of these print on demand services and look through their websites to get a background into types of services they offer and general pricing structure.
** Choose a print on demand service based on your research **
You need to choose a print on demand service to use. (Note: You do not have to finalize your decision at this point, but you should have in mind which service you plan on using to make sure to be as efficient as possible with upcoming steps.)
Some of the factors you will want to consider when choosing include:
- Cost to publish the book
- Book publishing options
- Bulk discounts
- Types of pre-publishing services they offer
- Ease of use
- Type of customer service (do you have a phone number to call them or just an email address)
- Type of distribution they offer
- Time to print out each book
** Complete your manuscript **
Although this sounds obvious, it is important to mention that you cannot self publish your novel until you have fully completed it. Many authors start looking into publishing options well before their novel is complete. While it is important to think ahead, it is also important to discipline yourself to finish your manuscript. Without this, you cannot proceed.
As you complete your manuscript, remember the pricing structures of the print on demand service you chose. Pricing is usually based on number of pages to be printed. You might consider condensing your novel a bit to save on self printing expenses.
** Edit your manuscript **
Even if you are going to be self publishing, it is important to create a professional novel. Get a professional to review and edit your manuscript. Make sure they are experienced in the type of novel you have written. Some print on demand services offer this service for an additional fee, so you might consider just having the editing done by their service.
** Format your novel **
You will also need a professional to format your novel for proper print format. This service is also sometimes available through the print on demand service.
** Create an attractive cover to your novel **
Next, have a professional cover designer design a cover for your novel. The cover is what sells your novel, so make sure it catches the viewer's attention. Some POD services also offer this service, but you might prefer working with a cover designer who you can talk to face to face.
** Get an ISBN number **
You will need an ISBN number. Find out if the POD service gives one to you. Also make sure you have full control over the ISBN number and that it is not just rented to you by the publisher.
** Create an initial printing of your novel **
You are finally ready to self publish the first draft of your novel. Follow the POD's website instructions carefully. It will take a few days or weeks for your first copy to be ready.
** Review the initial printing and revise **
Review the initial printing of your book carefully. Give to friends and family to review. Make any modifications necessary.
** Edit the self-published novel and reprint **
Edit the novel and reprint it. Review this second draft carefully. If everything looks good, you are ready to go. If not, print another draft and repeat this step again. Keep revising the novel until everything is perfect.
** Promote your novel **
Once you have completed all your revisions, you are ready to promote your novel. You can promote your novel by creating a website, advertising in local papers, creating news releases about your novel, etc.
** Sell and distribute your self-published novel **
At this point, orders should be coming in for your novel. You will have to handle sales and distribution of your book. Some POD's provide this service for you.