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How to Publish a Book Online in 30 Days

Publishing a book used to be something only professional publishers could handle. With the advent of publishing software, however, anyone who wants to publish a book can do so. By publishing your book online, you can reach a wide number of people and avoid the hassle of dealing with a book agent. It might be a challenge doing all the work yourself. But by setting a timeline of 30 days, you can publish your book very quickly.

Things You'll Need

  • Writing software
  • Calendar
  • Computer with Internet connection
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Instructions

    • 1

      Set a specific deadline that you expect to publish the book. Break down the timeline week by week. On a calendar, list the main goal for each week to help keep you focused and organized. On the first day of this 30-day timeline, you should begin writing your book if you haven't already done so. It is important that your book is ready as early as possible so you can start publishing and selling your book.

    • 2

      Finish writing the book during Week 2. When you are done, use writing software to edit your book for errors, style and readability. You might also ask someone else to read your book to make sure all errors have been resolved. Apply the appropriate revisions to your digital manuscript. Save the file.

    • 3

      Convert the document into the format you want for the book. You can export it to PDF by going to "File" and "Save As," then clicking PDF. The PDF file name can be the same as the book title.

    • 4

      Locate the PDF file by using the search tool on your computer. When you have located the file, right-click on it and select "Send to." Select the option "compressed file" or "Winzip." By converting your book into this format, you will lessen the download time and make it easier for readers to download your book.

    • 5

      Write the sales materials for the book on the weekend between Week 2 and Week 3. Packaging your book in a way that is appealing and compelling will help build awareness for your book. Include a synopsis, character sketches and perhaps a couple of graphics to make your book more inviting.

    • 6

      Make a list of where you will be selling the book, as well as in what format you will distribute it. You can publish your book through an online service such as Amazon, but keep in mind that these outlets might take around 65% of your sales. You might want to create a blog to build a community of readers.

    • 7

      Create a website dedicated to the book between Week 3 and Week 4. Add the sales materials you created to this website. The website will be an outlet to publicize your book and a place where readers can buy it. You can create a website for free at Intuit.com.

      Buying a dedicated domain name also helps, so readers can easily refer your website to others and help you increase your readership. You can also install a shopping cart on your website so readers can download the book as soon as they pay for it. At the very least you should provide clear instructions on where and how readers can buy your book.

    • 8

      Publish your book at the end of week 4. Make sure to tap into several outlets, including social media, to publicize your book and direct potential readers to your website. If you also want to publish printed copies of your book, you should consider services such as Blurb.com and Lulu.com.

Book Publishing

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