If you’ve ever thought about publishing your book, you’ve likely asked yourself a version of this question: Where do I even start, and what are the steps to publishing a book? Between writing, editing, designing, and selling, the entire process can feel like a labyrinth. But here’s the good news: it’s not as complicated once you understand each step for what it really is.
At Book Publishing Services, we walk writers through this journey every day. Whether you’re publishing fiction, nonfiction, or a memoir, knowing the exact steps will help you make confident, informed decisions and bring your book to life in a way that aligns with your goals.
Step 1: Finish Your Manuscript
Before anything else, you need a completed manuscript. If you’re writing fiction, that usually means finishing your story from beginning to end. If it’s nonfiction, you might structure it around chapters, key lessons, or case studies. The point here is clarity: you can’t publish something that isn’t done.
Some writers rush this step, but the truth is that your book’s success depends on a strong foundation. So ask yourself: have you truly said everything you want to say? If yes, move forward. If not, take your time. You’ll thank yourself later.
Step 2: Self-Edit and Revise
Even seasoned authors don’t get it perfect on the first try. Once you have a finished manuscript, step back and begin self-editing. This means looking for issues in pacing, grammar, flow, and structure. Tools like Grammarly or ProWritingAid can help, but nothing replaces careful human review.
If you’re not confident in your own edits, this is a great time to involve beta readers or trusted peers. Their feedback will help shape your final product into something much stronger.
Step 3: Professional Editing
Now comes one of the most essential parts of the book publishing process: professional editing. Even the best manuscripts benefit from a second (or third) set of eyes. Depending on your budget and needs, this might include:
- Developmental editing (for structure and content feedback)
- Line Editing (for flow and sentence clarity)
- Copy Editing (for grammar and accuracy)
- Proofreading (for final polish)
At Book Publishing Services, we always stress the value of this step. Readers notice when a book is well-edited, and they really notice when it’s not.
Step 4: Book Cover Design and Formatting
Once your manuscript is cleaned up, it’s time to bring it to life visually. This includes:
- A professionally designed cover (front, spine, and back)
- Interior formatting for both print and digital versions
Why is this so important? Because readers absolutely judge a book by its cover. The design must reflect your genre, appeal to your target audience, and look great across online platforms. And formatting? That ensures your book is readable, accessible, and meets distributor requirements.
Step 5: Copyright and ISBN
Many authors ask: “Should I copyright my book before publishing?” The answer? Technically, your work is copyrighted the moment you write it. However, registering your copyright officially through the U.S. Copyright Office (or equivalent body in your country) gives you added legal protection, especially if disputes ever arise.
You’ll also need an ISBN (International Standard Book Number). This unique identifier allows retailers and libraries to catalog and sell your book. Whether you’re self-publishing or going through a traditional house, it’s a must-have.
Step 6: Choose Your Publishing Path
Now that your book is production-ready, ask yourself: “Do you need a publisher to publish a book?” The answer depends on your goals.
- Traditional Publishing: You’ll need a literary agent and a publishing deal. The process takes longer but offers wider distribution and prestige.
- Self-Publishing: You maintain creative control and higher royalties. Platforms like IngramSpark and Amazon KDP make it easy.
- Hybrid Publishing: A middle ground where you pay upfront but get professional guidance and services.
Each of these types of book publishing has pros and cons. What matters most is choosing what aligns with your vision and resources.
Step 7: Distribution and Upload
You’ve selected your publishing method, and now it’s time to go live. This means uploading your book to platforms like:
- Amazon Kindle Direct Publishing (KDP)
- IngramSpark
- Barnes & Noble Press
- Apple Books
- Kobo
Each platform will ask for metadata (title, description, keywords), pricing, and category info. This is where your earlier decisions really start to pay off.
Step 8: Marketing and Launch
This step often surprises first-time authors. Writing a great book is only half the battle. If you want readers to find it, you need a launch plan.
- Build an author website.
- Create social media buzz
- Send ARCs (Advance Reader Copies) to reviewers
- Consider paid ads or email campaigns
Book Publishing Services helps clients craft customized launch plans to increase visibility and sales. Whether you’re going DIY or getting expert support, don’t skip this part.
Step 9: Post-Launch Momentum
You published, congrats! But that doesn’t mean the work is done. Keep the momentum going with:
- Ongoing content marketing
- Book signings or podcast interviews
- Collecting reviews and testimonials
- Planning your next book
You might also wonder, “How long does book publishing take?” Depending on the path, it can range from a few months (self-publishing) to a couple of years (traditional). But the time investment pays off when done right.
Final Note
Publishing a book is a milestone, and like all milestones, it starts with a single step. Now that you know what are the steps to publishing a book, you can move forward with clarity and confidence.
At Book Publishing Services, we’ve helped hundreds of authors turn their manuscripts into books that resonate with readers and stand out in the market. If you’re ready to take that next step, we’re here to guide you.
Got questions? Reach out to Book Publishing Services today, and let’s bring your book to life.
Frequently Asked Question
What are the 7 steps of the publishing process?
The seven core steps of the publishing process typically include:
- Manuscript Completion – Finishing a polished draft.
- Editing – Developmental editing, line editing, and proofreading.
- Design and Formatting – Interior layout and cover design.
- ISBN and Metadata Creation – Registering your book and setting it up for discoverability.
- Printing or Digital Production – Preparing physical copies or eBooks.
- Distribution – Making the book available through retailers and online platforms.
- Marketing and Promotion – Creating awareness through campaigns, social media, reviews, and more.
- What Are the Stages of the Publishing Process?
The publishing process can be divided into three main stages:
- Pre-Publication – Involves writing, editing, designing, and planning the release.
- Publication – Focuses on the actual production and release of the book in physical or digital formats.
- Post-Publication – Encompasses marketing, sales tracking, reader engagement, and potential reprints or updates.
Whether you’re self-publishing or working with a traditional publisher, understanding these phases helps you stay organized and focused.
Do Publishers Read the Whole Book?
Yes, publishers eventually read the entire manuscript, but not right away. During the submission phase, they typically review a query letter, synopsis, and sample chapters first. If those are compelling, the full manuscript is requested. Once accepted, editors and publishing staff read the book in full, often several times, as part of the book publishing process to ensure quality before it reaches readers.
Can a 100 Page Book Be Published?
Absolutely. A 100-page book can be published, especially in genres like memoir, self-help, how-to, or business. What matters most is content quality, clarity, and audience relevance. Shorter books often appeal to readers looking for concise, actionable insights or quick reads, and they are fully viable in both print and digital publishing models.