Post History

Source: https://writers.stackexchange.com/a/17860
License name: CC BY-SA 3.0
License URL: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0/

In a very general sense, the publishing process for new writers works something like this. This is not comprehensive: there _are_ alternate routes, and there are always exceptions!

### 1. Author writes a novel.

A writer will writer their first novel; this is self-explanatory.

### 2. Author edits the novel.

This can include self-editing, using beta readers, hiring a freelance editor - some of these or all of these.

### 3. Author finds an agent.

It's generally easier for a writer to sell a book when they have an agent - someone who will improve the book, hone it to fit the current market, and know how to find a home for it. Agents take a cut of book sales; they are not paid by the author. It is possible to [sell a manuscript directly to a publisher](http://www.writersdigest.com/writing-articles/by-writing-goal/business-legal-matters/how-to-sell-your-manuscript-without-an-agent), bit it's a lot harder.

One finds an agent by writing a [query letter](https://writers.stackexchange.com/questions/1173/how-do-you-write-a-fiction-or-non-fiction-query-letter-to-an-editor), that sells you as a writer and the book itself.

### 4. Agent edits the book.

Agents work closely with publishers, and they have a good idea what will sell and what will do well. So they edit their writers' manuscripts to fit their vision. They usually have editors in-house (or a stable of freelancers they trust) who will do this work, working with the author.

### 5. Book is sold to a publisher.

An agent brokers a deal with a publisher. This is their goal and their reason to exist.

### 6. Publisher makes the manuscript ready for publication.

Getting a final manuscript in shape can involve proofreading, typesetting, and even further editing over what the agent and the author did.

### 7. Publisher markets the book.

Social media, print/radio/trade ads, getting cover blurbs, reviews in major publications, placement with major bookselling chains - marketing muscle is the best reason to go with a traditional publisher.

### 8. Publisher prints and distributes the book.

Making physical/electronic copies, getting them warehouses and sent to the correct places.

Original score: 8