Research trends in the sci-fi publishing market before writing a novel. Every writer can head to a local bookstore and review the latest releases in the science fiction section to determine plots and characters that are popular at the moment.
Track down an editor who can review early drafts and provide creative input along with grammar checks. A sci-fi writer should find an editor familiar with the genre in order to reduce the amount of work spent on large-scale revisions (see Resources below).
Work with a literary agent who has experience negotiating contracts and distribution with publishing companies. An agent is necessary to ensure that a writer gets published without sacrificing future earnings and creative vision (see Resources below).
Research scientific, philosophical and political principles before submitting book drafts to science fiction publishers. These publishers look for novels and short stories that are grounded in scientific theories as well as larger philosophical ideas that appeal to smart readers.
Ponder the non-science fiction virtues of your book if you plan on submitting a novel to a general publishing house. These publishers are accustomed to selling fiction, poetry and short stories that are realistic. A writer who can explain successfully why his sci-fi book is applicable to general novel readers gains the wide distribution ability of publishing houses.
Determine if your sci-fi story requires a single book or a series of novels to complete. Most publishers will look for single novels from new authors to reduce the risk of investing in unsuccessful sci-fi series.
Use short vignettes on your website to show the popularity of a novel to publishers and literary agents. The average writer can generate interest from online readers while providing tangible numbers to publishers by uploading stand-alone chapters and epilogues.