How do I get my first book published?

What needs to happen before I submit or publish anything?

A finished, revised and edited manuscript is the starting point regardless of route. Agents, publishers and readers are all judging the same thing: whether the writing delivers on what it sets out to do.

What does the traditional route involve?

Traditional publishing typically means a publisher acquires the right to publish your book and funds its production, in exchange for a share of rights and royalties defined in a contract. Advantages can include publisher-funded production, professional infrastructure and trade relationships; trade-offs can include competitive acquisition, longer timelines and reduced author control. Outcomes vary by genre, manuscript and market, so none of this is guaranteed.

Do I need a literary agent?

Many traditional publishers, particularly larger ones, accept submissions only through literary agents, who represent authors and negotiate contracts on their behalf. Requirements vary by publisher and by country, so check current submission guidelines directly.

Can I submit directly to publishers?

Some smaller or independent publishers accept unagented, direct submissions. Always check a publisher’s current submission guidelines, as requirements and open windows change.

What does the DIY self-publishing route involve?

The author manages or personally sources every part of the process: editing, cover design, formatting, ISBNs, uploading and marketing. This offers full control and speed, but requires either substantial time or a budget to hire freelancers for each step.

What does professional assisted self-publishing involve?

This route sits between the two: the author pays a publishing service for structured editorial, design and publishing support, while keeping copyright, royalties, accounts and creative control. It is not traditional acquisition and it is not the same as managing every step alone. See what is assisted self-publishing? for a fuller explanation.

How does editing fit into a first-time author’s route?

Editing needs matter whichever route you choose. Traditional publishers typically provide their own editorial process after acquisition; self-publishing and assisted routes require the author to arrange it, personally or through a paid service.

Who handles the cover?

Traditional publishers usually design the cover themselves, with limited author input. In self-publishing and assisted routes, the author commissions or approves the design directly.

How does distribution differ by route?

Traditional publishers generally have established distribution relationships with bookshops. Self-published and assisted authors typically rely on platforms such as Amazon KDP and IngramSpark, which make a book available to order but do not guarantee bookshop stocking.

What about ISBNs for a first book?

Traditional publishers usually register the ISBN under their own imprint. Self-publishing and assisted authors typically need to arrange their own, and owning it in your own name keeps more options open long term.

Who markets a first-time author’s book?

Traditional publishers vary widely in how much marketing support they provide, and first-time authors are often expected to contribute significant effort themselves. Self-publishing and assisted routes place marketing responsibility more clearly with the author.

How long does each route typically take?

Traditional publishing timelines, from submission to bookshop, are typically measured in years once acquisition happens, and acquisition itself can take a long time to secure. Self-publishing and assisted routes are usually faster because the author or a paid team controls the schedule directly.

What does each route cost the author?

Traditional publishing does not typically require the author to pay for production. Self-publishing costs depend on how much you do yourself versus hire out. Assisted self-publishing involves a paid service fee in exchange for structured support; understand exactly what is and is not included before committing.

What happens to rights and royalties?

Traditional contracts typically involve the author licensing rights to the publisher in exchange for royalties defined in the contract. Self-publishing and assisted routes generally leave copyright and royalty income with the author throughout. See rights and royalties, explained for more detail.

How do I choose based on my priorities?

This article does not recommend one route over another; it depends entirely on what you are trying to achieve. See should I self-publish or find a publisher? for a deeper look at that decision.

Common mistakes

• Submitting an unfinished or unedited manuscript. This applies to agents, publishers and any paid publishing service alike.
• Assuming self-publishing is free. Quality editing, design and distribution all cost either time or money.
• Confusing assisted self-publishing with traditional acquisition. They involve different funding, selection and rights arrangements.
• Choosing a route based on prestige alone. The right route depends on your priorities around control, speed, cost and rights.

Frequently asked questions