The Book Publishing Process Explained, Start to Finish

The book publishing process has seven steps from start to finish: write and revise, edit, choose a publishing route, prepare the book, publish, launch and market, then manage sales and rights. The same steps apply to every route, though who does the work and how long it takes will vary.

The Seven Steps in Order

Write and Revise. Finish a complete draft, then revise for structure, pacing, and clarity until the book holds together.

Edit. Apply a structural edit, a line edit, and a proofread, each as a separate pass with its own focus.

Choose a Route. Decide between traditional publishing, self-publishing, or hybrid, based on your goal for the book.

Prepare the Book. Format the interior, design the cover, and arrange an ISBN and copyright for each format.

Publish. Submit to a publisher, or upload to retail platforms for an independent release.

Launch and |Market. Plan the launch, reach your readers, and gather early reviews to build momentum.

Manage sales and Rights. Track royalties, handle subsidiary rights, and plan future editions.

Where the Steps Differ by Route

The sequence stays the same across routes, but responsibility shifts. In traditional publishing, the house handles editing, preparation, publication, and much of the launch. In self-publishing, the author arranges each step directly or through a services partner. Hybrid publishing shares the work between author and publisher.

Understanding who does what at each stage helps you plan your time, budget, and expectations before you begin.

The Foundation That Carries Every Step

Two early steps decide the quality of everything that follows: writing and editing. A strong, well-edited manuscript makes preparation smoother, earns a publisher's interest, and gives an independent book a genuine chance in the market. Time invested here pays back at every later stage.

If you are new to all of this, start with the fundamentals. Our complete guide to how to publish a book covers each step for beginners.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the 7 steps of publishing a book?

Writing and revision, editing, choosing a route, preparing the book, publishing, launch and marketing, and managing sales and rights.

Does the process differ for self-publishing?

The steps are the same, but the author takes on more of the work, arranging editing, preparation, and marketing directly or through a partner.

Want a Guide Through Every Step?

The Novella Publishers team supports authors from first draft to finished book across all seven stages. Get expert support.

For the full overview and all the routes, read the book publishing process explained.