The first step in publishing a book is choosing and creating a good, solid manuscript. Whether you write fiction or nonfiction, you need to write something people will want to read. As you create the manuscript, think about your target audience and how they will perceive your work. Without a good story or interesting topic, your book will be hard to sell. Focus on the content and make sure it is readable and enjoyable.
When you have finished writing your manuscript, you will have a first draft. The best books undergo professional editing by a second set of eyes. It is important to edit your own book to polish up your manuscript, but a professional editor should review your manuscript and recommend revisions until it is ready for print.
Books with eye-catching covers get noticed. Think about the last time you were in a bookstore and which books caught your attention. The art of publishing requires paying special attention to the book's overall presentation, including the exterior cover and interior formatting. Ensure that the style of your book's cover matches the inner contents. The interior design and layout of the book should be readable and not strain the eyes of your readers.
Printing a book is only one of the key steps to get your written word out to the reading public. However, this basic rule involves calculating your printing costs and deciding how many copies you will print on first and possible second runs. With self-publishing becoming a predominant means of releasing a book, you must decide if you will use a print-on-demand company or traditional printing house.
Without marketing a book and spreading the word, it will be difficult to sell copies. Focus on your marketing strategy early in the publishing process, even as early as choosing your core audience. Consider traditional and nontraditional means, including book signings and social media networks.