What an indie author needs to know before self-publishing their book: A timeline
The internet has made publishing accessible for everyone, and it gives indie authors complete creative control over their books. With that freedom comes responsibility; not only do you have to do the writing, you need to do the marketing, and much more! The whole self-publishing process can be daunting. First-time indie authors often underestimate how much time, planning, and professional support are needed between finishing a draft and holding a polished book in their hands.
So, here’s a helpful stage-by-stage timeline of what to expect before you self-publish, what you need to do as the author, and how a professional editor can guide you through the process.
✍️ Stage 1: Writing
What you do as the Author:
Some authors start by drafting an outline, others just put pen to paper and write (or type)! Do what suits you.
Draft your manuscript without over-editing along the way. Focus on getting the story or content down before worrying about perfection.
When you have a completed manuscript, it’s time to do some self-editing. It’s wise to leave your draft for a few weeks before you start this stage; you’ll spot more changes and errors if you return to it with fresh eyes. Reread it from cover to cover to highlight any inconsistencies and issues, then amend your manuscript accordingly.
Write as many drafts as necessary to perfect your story. You’ll know when it’s ready, as you’ll be excited to share it. Share your work with trusted critique partners or beta-readers for honest feedback.
How an Editor helps:
An editor won’t generally be hands-on at this stage. However, you can consult an editor early for manuscript evaluations or advice on structure, genre expectations, or writing discipline.
Developmental editors can also help you shape your outline or resolve big-picture challenges before you get too far.
📝 Stage 2: Editing
What you do as the Author:
Revise your draft based on your beta-reader feedback to further tighten your manuscript.
Decide what level of professional editing your manuscript needs (developmental, line editing, copyediting, proofreading).
Be prepared for multiple rounds of revision. When you receive feedback from your editor, you can incorporate this into your final manuscript. Then hold the copy for a few weeks before returning to it for a final read through.
Write your author bio, usually published as part of your book; this needs to tell your readers a little more about you. Also, write any dedications, acknowledgements, back cover blurb, and your copyright page. Then obtain ISBNs (if not provided by your platform).
How an Editor helps:
A developmental editor or content editor addresses structure, pacing, plot holes, clarity of thought, and continuity of ideas to ensure your ideas flow logically and the narrative is engaging.
A line editor improves flow, style, and readability. They go through your manuscript sentence by sentence, looking at the language and style. They focus on improving the precision of your writing.
A copyeditor polishes spelling, grammar, punctuation, and consistency. Think of stray commas, improper use of numbers, and a myriad of other issues that could diminish the value of your book.
A proofreader ensures final accuracy before printing. They look through the final formatted version of your book and check for last-minute errors and layout issues (incorrect page numbers, poor formatting, etc.).
Professional editing ensures your book is polished. They’ll be able to spot things you can’t see in your own work, and highlight any parts of your story that don’t quite fit.
📖 Stage 3: Typesetting and Publishing
What you do as the Author:
Decide on your publishing format (print, eBook, or both).
Hire a professional designer/typesetter for cover design and interior layout; have ideas of fonts and design, or leave it up to your typesetter to propose designs. Remember, the right typography will improve readability, so choose something appropriate.
At the end of the typesetting process, you will be provided with two files: a cover file and an interior file. You’ll want to proofread everything again. Here’s a tip: Read it out loud, as this triggers a different part of your brain. Send any final changes back to your designer.
Your final files can then be sent to your printer or uploaded to your platforms.
How an Editor helps:
Your editor may provide typesetting services, which can be helpful with consistency, as they are already familiar with your book’s content. They can guide you in choosing fonts, margins, and formatting to ensure a professional finish.
The cover of your book is crucial; use a professional cover designer if needed. You need designs for the front, back and spine. Sample designs for your book cover and interior should be provided for your selection and approval.
Once your design is finalised, your complete book will be formatted. You’ll want to read it through again and send any final amendments to your typesetter. Repeat this stage as necessary.
With the final layout designed, you’ll know the page number count. Your cover designer will need this (and the paper weight) to create the correct size for the spine. Do a final cover check: your front cover should be eye-catching, appropriate to your genre and include the title, subtitle and your name. The back cover is a key marketing tool, so the copy needs to be a great description that will make a potential reader think, ‘I’ve got to read this!’ It should also have a short bio and a headshot.
You and your editor can do a final proofread after formatting to catch layout or typographical errors.
🖨️ Stage 4: Printing
What you do as the Author:
Choose your printer or self-publishing platform (Amazon KDP, IngramSpark, Draft2Digital, or others).
Order proof copies to review. Check physical copies for formatting issues, colour accuracy, and print quality.
Ramp up excitement for your book launch, set a launch date and allow pre-orders.
How an Editor Helps:
A proofreader can compare your printed proof to the original manuscript to catch missed errors.
Editors often act as a second set of eyes to ensure your book looks professional inside and out.
📢 Stage 5: Marketing
What you do as the Author:
Build your author platform and promote your book and yourself (author website, email list, social media accounts). These are invaluable tools for any self-publishing author. A website to promote your book can inform readers where and when they can buy your book; it doesn’t have to be fancy.
Develop a marketing plan, including budget, promotion channels, and a launch date for your book. This can include cover reveals, blog tours, and ARC (Advanced Review Copy) distribution.
Start gathering pre-orders and/or early reviews.
Promote your book on social media; excite your followers about your forthcoming book release with fun social media content. Video marketing is invaluable, so use visual platforms like Instagram and YouTube.
How an Editor helps:
Editors can help ensure your book blurb, author bio, and marketing copy are clear, polished, and persuasive.
They may also connect you with trusted publishing professionals (cover designers, marketers, formatters).
🚀 Stage 6: Launch your Book
What you do as the Author:
Host a launch event (virtual or in-person). Many self-publishing authors organise an online launch, such as an Instagram Live, which is great for interactive launches. If you have the budget, consider hosting an in-person book launch.
Whether your launch is a low-key Insta story or an in-person party, the important thing is that you did it! Your self-published book is now part of the literary canon.
Your book launch may feel like the end of the road, but until the royalties are rolling in, there’s a lot of work left to do. Maintain your marketing momentum across your social media platforms after your launch.
You can also ramp up your marketing efforts with guest blogs, podcasts, and book readings/signings at local bookshops. Join author circles online and promote their work, too.
How an Editor helps:
Editors often provide post-launch support, such as advice on maintaining book quality across editions.
They can help you refine content for newsletters, press releases, or interviews to ensure your messaging is consistent and professional.
🎬 Final thoughts: Plan and work smart
Self-publishing is a marathon, not a sprint. Each stage takes time, and skipping steps can harm your book’s reception. As the author, you set the creative direction, but having a professional editor at your side ensures your book meets the high standards your readers expect. With the right plan, the right professionals, and the right patience, your book can move smoothly from draft to launch and make a strong impact in the marketplace.
Oh, and a couple more things: Find an encouraging community. Writing a book can be a lonely process, so connecting with others in the same boat who can lift you when needed, and you can reciprocate. This group can also keep you accountable, whether that’s writing a certain number of words each day or completing a chapter each week. And finally, remember, there are no rules when it comes to drafting your novel. It’s yours, so write it in the order you need to. If there is a compelling section to the story that you really need to get down on paper, just write it. The important thing is that you get it done.
I hope this helps xx
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