How to self-publish a book

Decide how the book will be used

I begin by asking who the book is for and how you intend to share it. A family memoir and a guide intended for print and electronic distribution need different decisions about format and materials.

Tell me whether you need files only or printed copies as well. For printing, an approximate quantity, preferred binding and deadline are useful. If these are undecided, explain the purpose of the publication. I will help identify what needs to be agreed.

Self-publishing also involves decisions about sales and promotion. They are worth planning separately, as they are not part of typesetting. My production scope is defined in the quotation.

Complete the manuscript and organise images

I need a current, editable manuscript with a clear chapter structure. Editing, language proofreading and typesetting are different stages. Before starting, I establish the condition of the text and the work included in the commission.

Complete substantial text changes before layout where possible. Adding a chapter later can affect pagination, the contents and image positions. Corrections are part of an agreed process, but changes affecting the whole layout need to be discussed.

Send photographs separately, with filenames that match their captions. Identify the people, places and dates you want included. If an older photograph needs restoration, I can assess the work after seeing the file. Complete captions let me prepare the book without gaps.

Plan the interior and cover

I develop the page layout around the book's content, structure and illustrations. A practical guide with tables needs different treatment from poetry. Consistent typography helps the reader follow the text and find information.

Plan the cover alongside the interior. I need the agreed title, author name, cover text and visual materials. For print, the binding specifications and final extent also affect production. If another designer supplies the cover, let me know so that responsibilities are clear.

Discuss ISBN and publication formats

I can include ISBN assignment in the agreed scope. I discuss the planned editions and publishing details at quotation stage. Poland's National Library states that ISBN allocation is free and participation in the system is voluntary. See its ISBN allocation guidance. The number itself is free; the scope of my work in handling it is agreed in the quotation.

Tell me early if you want both print and electronic editions. This helps establish the materials and publication information needed for each version.

Review the proofs

Read the typeset book from beginning to end, including contents, names, captions, tables and internal references. Even a manuscript checked before typesetting needs a review in its final layout.

I recommend one consolidated set of corrections. If several people review the publication, appoint someone to resolve conflicting comments. I agree the revision scope in the quotation. The schedule must allow time for your review and final approval.

Prepare files and printed copies

Once you approve the book, I prepare the print files to the printer's requirements. This is generally included when I typeset the book. Printing and delivery are quoted separately.

I also prepare EPUB, MOBI and flipbook editions, with the format agreed for the intended use. I need source text or layout files, not a finished print PDF. An electronic edition alongside book typesetting carries an agreed additional fee.

I can arrange printing through trusted partners and delivery, including international delivery. I agree the delivery schedule separately from the typesetting completion date. Urgent work is assessed and priced individually.