Many people often write stories and end up with them in their houses unpublished. This is because they have either written bad copy or they did not follow all the steps necessary for a book to get published.

 

• The first step in getting a book published is to read. It is not easy for one to be a good writer if they do not read. The books that one reads should range from the serious ones to the contemporary ones.

• One should then examine their values. This should cover the reasons that are making one write, the type of books they enjoy reading and so on.

• It is also advisable for one to learn something regarding publishing. One can do this by interning or doing volunteer reading in a publishing company. Also think of having a job in the publishing industry. However, be on the lookout as publishing has the ability of turning idealistic people into cynics. Book store experience is invaluable as well and one stands a better chance of understanding the system if they work in it.

• A little market research will also help. This involves looking at the way one’s topic is covered in the market as it will help them find their niche. It also helps one know their audience and what they want to read. Market research will involve one going bookstores and libraries as well.

• One can now write their book. Quite a number of people try to get their work published on a proposal and chapter basis. However, this is only possible if one is a known author or if they are renowned authority on their subject. One does not have to pay attention to details at this point though.

• The rough draft of any writing is usually not the best and one should rewrite their work as the next step.

• A little market research will also help one go along way into having their book published. A market research will help one identify a number of publishers who they can get to like their book. Double check their conclusions as well in their nearest book store. The Literary Marketplace (LMP) is also a helpful tool of research.

• Then write a query letter to find out if the publisher is interested in their kind of book. Having a good agent may help one as well.

• If one gets a positive response they should then submit their work along with a cover letter. The latter should give reasons as to why the agent or publisher is the best to deal with the manuscript.

After submitting, one should do a follow up after a period of two to three months. If one wants to be a professional writer they should learn to persevere as things might not turn out as planned in the first instance.