Prepare a query letter for potential literary agents to review. A query letter is a one-page sales pitch in which you introduce yourself and summarize your book in a succinct, attention-grabbing manner. Include the status of the manuscript's completion and your contact information.
Find the names and addresses of literary agents who represent memoirs by reviewing publishing industry resources such as "Writer's Market" or "Publisher's Marketplace." Agents will also list their instructions for submitting a query letter; follow these instructions accurately.
Send your query letter to multiple literary agents simultaneously. Be prepared to submit a book proposal containing at least three sample chapters, summaries for the remaining chapters, your ideas for promotion and other pertinent information upon the agent's request. Some agents require an exclusivity period of 30 days to review your writing, so keep track of the date when you mail your material. Continue this process until you find an agent willing to represent your memoir to publishers.
Complete your entire memoir and hire a professional copy editor to correct mistakes. If you have never written before, take a creative writing class to gain an understanding of manuscript structure.
Choose a self-publishing company and review its publishing plans thoroughly to find the one best suited to you. These companies can be found online or through professional resources such as "Writer's Market." Some companies require an investment and others print-on-demand; meaning no cost is incurred until a customer orders a copy of your book. This includes electronic book versions of your memoir.
Submit your manuscript to the publisher following its guidelines. For example, if you choose to publish through Amazon's Create Space, you will need to create an online account and upload a pdf version of your manuscript online. You will also be asked to choose or create a cover for your book.