For Your Information
Questions about publishing a book? You're in the right place. Our Publishing Tips for Independent Authors library answers common questions about editing, publishing, book formatting, ISBNs, pricing, royalties, eBooks, audiobooks, printing, book marketing, and more. Whether you're publishing your first book or your fiftieth, these practical guides will help you make informed decisions throughout your publishing journey.
Before investing in professional book editing, make sure your manuscript is edit ready. You can achieve this by proofreading your manuscript multiple times before hiring an editor. It's likely you'll discover grammar mistakes, typos, punctuation errors, and inconsistencies you didn't notice the first, second or even third time you read it. Every correction you make beforehand allows your editor to focus on improving clarity, flow and overall quality instead of fixing avoidable errors. A well-prepared manuscript can reduce editing costs, shorten turnaround time and help produce a more polished, publication-ready book. When you're ready, explore our professional editing services and publish with confidence.
Can self-published authors make money? Yes, but success starts with realistic expectations and a smart publishing strategy. Most independent authors do not become overnight bestsellers, but many recover their publishing costs and build long-term income through book sales, eBooks, audiobooks, library distribution, and wholesale channels. The greatest reward often comes from reaching readers while creating an additional stream of income. Written Words Publishing helps authors publish professionally and maximize every opportunity to earn royalties.
Should you self-publish your book yourself or partner with a hybrid publishing company? The answer depends on your time, experience and goals. Many authors successfully publish independently while others prefer expert assistance with editing, book formatting, ISBN registration, metadata, cover design, and worldwide book distribution. Whether you want to publish on your own or work with professionals, Written Words Publishing provides the resources and publishing services to help you succeed.
How much should you charge for your book? There is no one-size-fits-all answer. Book pricing depends on factors such as printing costs, page count, genre, target audience and your overall book marketing strategy. Research similar titles, understand your competition and choose a price that reflects your book's value while remaining attractive to readers. When you publish with Written Words Publishing, you remain in control of your retail price. You can update your book's price whenever you choose to support promotions, increase royalties or respond to market demand.
How do authors know how many books they've sold? Transparency matters. Written Words Publishing provides detailed royalty reports that allow you to track your book sales with confidence. Each report includes the reporting period, units sold, book format, retail price, wholesale discounts, royalties earned, and other important sales data. Whether your books are sold through online retailers, bookstores or worldwide distribution channels, you'll have the information you need to monitor your publishing success.
Do authors keep the rights to their books? Absolutely. When you publish with Written Words Publishing, you retain 100% ownership of your intellectual property and maintain full creative control over your work. Your copyright belongs to you, not your publisher. We simply help you prepare, publish and distribute your book professionally. When we register your copyright, the certificate is issued directly to you by the U.S. Copyright Office, ensuring your ownership is officially documented.
What should I realistically expect after publishing my book? No reputable publisher, marketer, or publicist can guarantee book sales, bestseller status, media coverage, or commercial success. Be cautious of anyone who claims otherwise or asks you to pay for guaranteed results. Success in publishing depends on many factors, including the quality of the book, market demand, reader engagement, timing, and consistent promotion. Our goal is to equip our authors with the tools, resources, and support needed to maximize their opportunities while maintaining honest and realistic expectations.
Have boxes of books collecting dust in your garage, basement or office? You don't have to let your investment sit on a shelf. Whether your books were self-published or printed through another publisher, Written Words Publishing can help make them available for purchase through our online bookstore. This service gives authors another opportunity to reach readers without ordering a new print run or starting the publishing process over again. Turn unsold inventory into new sales and put your books back in front of readers. Contact us for more information.
Does an eBook need an ISBN? It depends on how you plan to publish and distribute it. If you're selling your eBook exclusively through Amazon Kindle Direct Publishing (KDP) or only on your own website, an ISBN is generally not required. However, if you plan to distribute your eBook through multiple online retailers, wholesale distributors or library systems, an ISBN is recommended and often required. Choosing the right publishing strategy from the beginning can save time and make your book available to more readers worldwide.
Quick Guide
- Selling only on your website? ISBN usually not required.
- Selling only through Amazon KDP? ISBN not required.
- Selling through Apple Books, Kobo, Barnes & Noble, Google Play or other retailers? ISBN recommended or required.
- Distributing through Ingram or library networks? ISBN required.
What eBook format should you choose? Most eBooks are published in EPUB and PDF formats because they are compatible with the widest range of devices. EPUB files automatically adjust to different screen sizes, making them ideal for smartphones, tablets and dedicated eReaders. PDF files preserve your original layout and are commonly used for workbooks, manuals and illustrated books. Written Words Publishing delivers eBooks in formats that provide readers with a high-quality reading experience across today's most popular devices and reading apps.
Popular eBook Readers
- Apple Books
- Kindle
- Adobe Acrobat Reader (PDF)
- Calibre
- EPUBReader
- ReadEra
- Google Play Books
- Kobo Books
How can authors promote their books without spending thousands on advertising? Podcast interviews are one of the most effective ways to build credibility, reach new readers and grow your author platform. Every interview introduces you and your book to an audience that already enjoys discovering new authors. Whether you're launching your first book or promoting your latest release, podcast appearances can increase book sales, website traffic and social media engagement. Contact Written Words Publishing for our list of podcasts that regularly feature independent authors.
Should authors attend book fairs, festivals and literary events? Absolutely. Literary events provide valuable opportunities to meet readers, network with other authors, connect with publishers and booksellers, build your email list, and sell signed books. Whether you're attending a local book festival, writers conference or community author event, face-to-face connections often lead to long-term readers and valuable business relationships. Explore our calendar of upcoming literary events and discover opportunities near you.
Are book contests worth entering? The right literary awards and writing contests can increase your credibility, strengthen your author brand and provide valuable recognition for your work. Award-winning books often receive additional media attention and can help attract new readers. Before paying an entry fee, research each contest carefully to ensure it has a strong reputation, qualified judges and meaningful benefits. Browse our recommended list of reputable contests for independent authors to find opportunities that fit your book and publishing goals.
What should every first-time author know before publishing a book? Successful authors understand that writing the book is only the beginning. Editing, cover design, book formatting, metadata, ISBNs, pricing, marketing, and distribution all play a role in your book's success. Our educational videos cover the publishing process, common mistakes to avoid and practical tips to help independent authors make informed decisions. Whether you're writing your first book or your tenth, these resources can help you publish with confidence.
Thinking about publishing a book?
Written by Jenny Shawn
Many writers dream of getting tons of books in the market only to realize that they cannot complete the book in time, and, second, there are too many surprises even if they do complete the manuscript. For first-time authors, the process can look more complicated. Many lose heart and do not complete their manuscripts, regretting it later. Writing a book is really hard, and making sure it gets published requires a lot of patience. Here is what I learned as I completed my book writing journey... Click here to read more.
Does every author need a website? If you're serious about selling books and building your author brand, the answer is yes. An author website gives readers one place to learn about you, discover your books, join your email list and purchase directly from you. Unlike social media, your website is a digital asset you own and control. It also improves your online visibility through search engines and gives your book a professional presence. If you're ready to create a website that reflects your work, we proudly recommend Cybervision Web, a trusted website design company owned by Thomas W. Pohl, one of our published authors.