Every aspiring author must know how to get a book published as it is a very critical process in reaching one’s dream to have a best-selling book. At first, you may think that learning how to write a manuscript for a novel – whether it is a children’s book, a romance novel, or a fantasy trilogy – is the hardest part of it all, but later on, you will realize that it is actually getting the book published that might have you at wit’s end!

The first question that comes to mind when you think about publishing your book would be, “Do I need an agent?” To answer that question, it is completely up to you!

It’s because there are two ways to publish your book: the traditional way and the self-publishing way. If you choose the former, then you will definitely need an agent. However, if you choose the latter, you will be your own agent.

When you decide to publish a book traditionally, hiring a literary agent will make things more convenient for you. Without an agent, publishers are less likely to give you the time of day. You can approach publishers directly, but you must not expect them to consider your book manuscript right away.

If you don’t know how to find a publisher that will give your book a chance, literary agents will serve as your middlemen, who will help you with their abilities to persuade publishers to consider your manuscript for publishing. If a traditional publisher rejects or ignores your work, look for another one. Don’t give up!

Since you now have an idea about how to get a book published traditionally, it’s time to get you ready. Here are the first few steps:

1. Identify the genre that your work belongs in.
2. Scout for potential agents.
3. Look for publishers who cater to books with the same genre as yours.
4. Read the submission terms and conditions of publishers before submitting your manuscript and other requirements.

If by any chance you can’t find a literary agent or you simply want to spare yourself from possibly getting ignored by publishers, you can become a publisher yourself. Self-publish your book and take control!

Here are a few publishing tips that you need to know as a writer:

1. You need to invest in a good book cover. Hire a professional designer!
2. Make sure your book is complete and well-edited before you submit it for printing.
3. You must have a relevant, interesting, and attention-grabbing title.

Now that you know how to get a book published, it is time to polish the manuscript of your novel and start preparing it for submission!

References:

dummies.com/how-to/content/how-to-get-your-book-published.html
writersmarket.com/cms/open/how-to-get-a-book-published
janefriedman.com/2012/01/28/start-here-how-to-get-your-book-published/