---
title: Publishing Checklist
description: "This is a high-level overview of the publishing process. For more in-depth information, review the other articles in our [Knowledge Base](https://www.bluepenbooks.com/help/) or book a [one-on-one consultation](https://www.bluepenbooks.com/book-a-consultation/). ## Write and Edit 1. Complete your manuscript. 2. Fully self-edit, including revisions and…"
url: "https://www.bluepenbooks.com/help/publishing-checklist/"
updated: "2023-10-23"
category: Publishing
tags:
  - Independent
  - Traditional
---

# Publishing Checklist

This is a high-level overview of the publishing process. For more in-depth information, review the other articles in our [Knowledge Base](https://www.bluepenbooks.com/help/) or book a [one-on-one consultation](https://www.bluepenbooks.com/book-a-consultation/).

## Write and Edit

1. Complete your manuscript.
2. Fully self-edit, including revisions and prose-level editing.
3. Send your manuscript to beta readers, and consider revising based on their feedback.
4. Consider professional [developmental editing](https://www.bluepenbooks.com/services/developmental-editing/) or a [manuscript critique](https://www.bluepenbooks.com/services/manuscript-critique/).

## Choose a Publishing Route

Review the [types of publishing](https://www.bluepenbooks.com/2022/08/self-publishing-vs-traditional-publishing/). Decide whether to query literary agents, submit to small presses, or publish independently.

## Query Literary Agents or Submit to Small Presses

1. Consider professional [line editing](https://www.bluepenbooks.com/services/line-editing/).
2. Write a [query](https://www.bluepenbooks.com/help/how-to-write-a-query-letter/).
3. Write a [synopsis](https://www.bluepenbooks.com/help/write-a-synopsis/).
4. Research [literary agents](https://www.bluepenbooks.com/help/where-to-find-literary-agents/) and/or publishers.
5. Send queries (or full manuscripts, if requested).
6. Wait for responses and repeat.
7. Prepare questions to discuss with interested parties.

## Self-Publish

[See this post](https://www.bluepenbooks.com/2022/12/how-to-self-publish-a-book-step-by-step-guide/) for an in-depth walkthrough.

1. Seriously consider professional [line editing](https://www.bluepenbooks.com/services/line-editing/) and [proofreading](https://www.bluepenbooks.com/services/proofreading/).
2. Purchase [ISBNs](https://www.bluepenbooks.com/help/how-to-get-an-isbn/) from Bowker.
3. Write your back cover blurb.
4. Professional [cover design](https://www.bluepenbooks.com/services/cover-design/).
5. Professional [interior layout](https://www.bluepenbooks.com/services/interior-layout/).
6. Choose and upload to [self-publishing platforms](https://www.bluepenbooks.com/help/distribution-plan/).
7. Market your book.

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