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Self-Publishing a Book

Hard 20 items · 2 hours
testuser's avatar
testuser Published 1 month ago
Lifestyle

A practical step-by-step checklist for authors preparing to self-publish. Ideal for indie authors, small-press publishers, and first-time self-publishers who need a clear sequence from manuscript polish to launch.

Progress
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  1. Finish manuscript draft — Complete the manuscript text and save a master copy.
  2. Complete structural edit and revise manuscript — Address plot, pacing, chapter flow, and large changes.
  3. Complete copyedit for grammar and clarity — Improve sentence-level clarity, consistency, and style.
  4. Proofread final manuscript — Do a final pass for typos, formatting, and quirks before formatting.
  5. Finalize book metadata (title, subtitle, series, author name) — Lock the official values to use across stores and marketing.
  6. Write book description and research keywords/categories — Craft a 1-2 paragraph blurb and pick 5–7 keywords and categories.
  7. Design book cover (decide DIY or hire a designer) — Decide budget and style, then create or commission the cover.
  8. Check cover specs (trim size, bleed, spine width) — Match distributor template for correct dimensions and resolution.
  9. Create or commission thumbnail and print-ready cover files — Export high-res print PDF and thumbnail JPG/PNG for stores.
  10. Format manuscript for ebook and print — Prepare separate files for reflowable ebooks and fixed-layout print.
  11. Format ebook (ePub/Kindle) — Create clean ePub or .mobi with linked TOC and responsive layout.
  12. Format paperback/print interior (PDF with margins and bleed) — Set proper margins, gutters, page numbers, and export print-ready PDF.
  13. Obtain ISBN or decide to use distributor's free ISBN/ASIN — Buy ISBNs if you want full publisher control or use KDP/Ingram identifiers.
  14. Set up publisher accounts on KDP and/or IngramSpark — Create and verify accounts, enter payment and tax details.
  15. Upload files and choose distribution options — Upload cover, interior files, metadata, select territories and channels.
  16. Order proof copy and review the physical book — Inspect print quality, trims, margins, and cover colors in hand.
  17. Set price, royalties, and distribution channels — Choose list price and royalty settings based on goals and markets.
  18. Prepare back matter (copyright page, author bio, buy links) — Include copyright, dedications, author contact, and reader links.
  19. Build launch team and distribute ARCs for early reviews — Recruit readers, influencers, and set deadlines for ARC feedback.
  20. Collect reviews and execute launch marketing (email, ads, socials) — Track reviews, activate promotions, and engage readers post-launch.
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