About Self-Publishing

Self-publishing is a common route these days for publishing your book your way. The process has become much simpler in recent years, but it can still be overwhelming. What all is necessary? Do you hire a one-stop-shop to do everything? What’s an ISBN?

Don’t panic! Here’s everything you need to know about self-publishing.

Basic Checklist for Self-Publishing Your Book:

  1. Write your book.

  2. Read your book.

  3. Hire an editor(s), planning for good editors to be available 3-4 months from initial contact.

  4. Purchase an ISBN for each format of the book you want (hardcover, paperback, and eBook).

  5. Hire a cover designer.

  6. Hire a typesetter.

  7. Start the hype on social media and any other outlets you have.

  8. Hire a proofreader.

  9. Launch your book.

  10. Keep marketing!

Where do I publish my book?

Amazon KDP

The leader in self-publishing, Amazon KDP allows writers to upload books and eBooks to Amazon marketplace and Kindle.

Pros

  • Free to use

  • Books and eBooks allowed

  • Print-on-Demand (meaning, no need to hold onto bulk inventory)

  • Marketing help available ($)

  • Author keeps rights, sets the original price, and earns royalties

  • Easy to use

  • Free ISBNs available

Cons

  • Market saturation

  • Amazon can change the price of your book

  • If you use Kindle Select, you cannot publish your eBook on any other platform

  • If you use a free ISBN from Amazon, they own that ISBN; to publish elsewhere, you would need to purchase a new ISBN

  • Customer support can be hit or miss

  • Amazon prohibits family, friends, and business investors from reviewing the book (they consider it bias)

IngramSpark

The leader in self-publishing, Amazon KDP allows writers to upload books and eBooks to Amazon marketplace and Kindle.