Welcome to our new series on self-publishing! In this first article, we will cover the basics of what self-publishing is and some common terms you should know. Self-publishing refers to creating and distributing content to the public. It can include anything that can be put inside a book, such as novels, manuals, cookbooks, and more. Self-publishing allows authors to maintain complete control over their content, from design to pricing. While authors have complete control, there are resources available to help produce the best version of your project.
Print-on-demand is a technology that allows books to be printed as soon as they are ordered, reducing the cost of storage. Copy-editing includes proofreading for grammar, punctuation, spelling, and formatting. Formatting refers to the arrangement and design of content. Distribution involves putting your book out into the world, and it can be sold through various retailers. ISBN is a unique identifying number assigned to books by publishers that denote the publisher, edition, and binding. Proof copy refers to a copy of the final product that should be ordered before mass production.
The first step in self-publishing is finding your passion and your audience. You can then create content that appeals to that audience. Researching your genre and market is essential to identify what is already available and what is missing. Editing is crucial to perfect the manuscript. Formatting and design should be done to make the book look professional. Pricing and distribution involve setting the price and deciding where to sell the book. Finally, publishing is when the book is released.
Self-publishing can be a fulfilling experience that allows authors to retain complete control of their work while reaching a broader audience. While it involves several steps, there are resources and tools available to make the process smoother. With this knowledge, you can take the first step towards self-publishing and turn your passion into a published book.
