Self-publishing can feel daunting to first-time authors. No matter where an author is in their self-publishing journey, there are steps they can take to get their book ready for publishing in 2025.
1. Finish Your WIP
First things first, a self-publishing author needs to finish their work in progress (WIP) if they want to publish in 2025.
Self-publishing authors in the early stages of their WIP can use an outline to help them sort through their ideas. They can create a writing routine to help them get the words on the page and meet their daily word count goals.
Self-publishing authors who have finished a draft can get feedback from beta readers or critique groups to ensure their writing is clear and their ideas are well conveyed.
Self-publishing authors with final drafts can hire an editor to check for last-minute plot issues and fix punctuation and grammar.
Finishing a WIP is no small task, but it’s the first step in preparing for self-publishing.
2. Research Cover Art
Whether a self-publishing author plans to order custom book covers or premade book covers, they need to research trends in their genre.
The easiest way to do this is for authors to look up books being released in 2025 that are in the same genre as their own. They should then look at the elements of the covers.
Are the majority illustrations or photographs? Are there frequently seen color combinations? Do the covers feature people, places, things, or abstract images? What fonts are being used? Do paperback, hardback, audio, and digital book formats have the same covers, or do trends vary by medium?
Cover art trends change constantly, and self-publishing authors should understand the current trends so they can pick book covers that look timely and attract readers of their genre.
Understanding cover art trends allows self-publishing authors to choose a cover that will draw in modern readers and ensure the success of their book.
3. Create a Social Media Presence
If a self-publishing author isn’t online discussing their soon-to-be-released book, they should be.
Letting friends, family members, and potential fans know an author has an upcoming book is a great way to get early sales.
Different platforms work for different self-publishing authors, but everyone can find a place to connect with readers and get them hyped up for their new release.
Consistent content over time is the best way for self-publishing authors to get eyes on their social media posts. Self-publishing authors will want as many eyes on their book launch announcement as possible, and getting into a social media routine well before publication can help make that happen.
4. Research Self-Publishing Costs
Self-publishing authors will need to create a budget and raise funds before self-publishing a book.
This budget should include costs such as book printing and binding, digital printing services, custom book covers or premade book covers, interior book design, and marketing.
Having a financial plan is vital for new self-publishing authors.
5. Research the Best Self-Publishing Companies
Self-publishing authors must choose a company that offers the book publishing services they want at a price they can afford.
InstantPublisher cares about self-publishing authors and wants them to successfully self-publish their books in 2025. Visit our website today to learn about the book publishing process and all our book printing services.