You’ve written your story, but how do you publish it? What type of editing do you start with? When do you need a cover? How do you plan the book launch and marketing? This self-publishing timeline guides you step by step to get your story into your readers’ hands.

Whether you’re working on your first novel or your fifth nonfiction title, you’ll know exactly what to do and when to self-publish.

Each step reveals some important tasks for the author and professionals, along with realistic timeframes. These times will vary depending on the manuscript length, your availability and the schedules of any professionals you work with.

Ready to get published? Here’s how.