How to Write and Self-Publish a Book: A Step-by-Step Guide

Writing a book is a major accomplishment, but once you’ve finished crafting your manuscript, the next hurdle is to get it into the hands of readers. Thankfully, modern technology and self-publishing platforms have made it easier than ever to publish a book. Whether you’re planning to create an eBook, print edition, or both, the process is more accessible than ever. Below is a step-by-step guide on how to write a book and self-publish it through popular platforms like Amazon KDP and Barnes & Noble Press.



1) Write the Actual Book

The first step in any self-publishing journey is to actually write the book. This can be both the most exciting and daunting part of the process. Here are a few tips to help you get started:



  • Set Clear Goals: Begin by setting clear and realistic writing goals. Determine your target word count, the scope of your content, and the deadline for completing your manuscript.
  • Create an Outline: An outline is your roadmap. It helps you organize your thoughts, set the structure of the book, and ensures a coherent flow of ideas. Whether you’re writing fiction or nonfiction, an outline can save time and prevent writer’s block.
  • Write Consistently: One of the biggest challenges of writing a book is staying disciplined. Make writing a regular habit, whether it’s a few pages a day or several chapters a week. Don’t worry about perfection in the early drafts—just get your ideas on paper.
  • Edit as You Go: While some writers wait until the end to edit, others prefer to revise as they go along. The choice is personal, but the key is to keep moving forward with the writing, knowing that you’ll be able to improve it in the later stages.

2) Decide the Format for Publication

Once the book is written, you must decide the format in which you want to publish it. Most self-published authors choose either an eBook, a printed book, or both. Here’s a breakdown of each format:



  • eBooks: Publishing as an eBook is fast, cost-effective, and allows you to reach a global audience. Platforms like Amazon Kindle, Apple Books, and Google Play Books support eBook publishing. eBooks are portable, easy to distribute, and accessible on multiple devices.
  • Printed Books: If you want a physical copy of your book in the hands of readers, print publishing is the way to go. Print-on-demand services like Amazon’s KDP and Barnes & Noble Press allow you to print paperback or hardcover books without having to invest in large print runs upfront. Your book will only be printed when someone orders it.
  • Combination of Both: Many authors choose to publish both an eBook and a print version to maximize reach and appeal to different readers. With platforms like KDP and Barnes & Noble Press, you can easily publish both formats under the same account.

3) Hire Professionals for Proofreading, Cover Design, and Formatting

While writing your book is a huge accomplishment, professional polishing is essential to ensure that it is of the highest quality. You will also need a cover design and proper format to fit the book. I prefer to use Fiverr. In fact, I have a partnership with them. If you use my link (https://www.fiverr.com/pe/8adDRr) you will get free credit. Here’s how to go about hiring professionals:



  • Proofreading and Editing: Even if you’re a skilled writer, proofreading is crucial. You may miss errors that a fresh set of eyes would catch. Hire a professional proofreader or editor through platforms like Fiverr, or other freelancing websites. An editor will not only check for grammar mistakes but also ensure consistency, clarity, and structure in your writing.
  • Cover Design: Your book cover is the first thing a potential reader will see, and a professionally designed cover can make a huge difference in whether they decide to buy or not. You can hire a cover designer through Fiverr or other design platforms. Be sure to provide them with clear information about your book’s theme, genre, and mood so they can create a design that resonates with your target audience.
  • Formatting: Formatting is essential for both eBooks and printed books. A well-formatted book looks more professional and is easier to read. Formatting for eBooks includes proper font sizing, page breaks, and ensuring the content works on different screen sizes. For print, you need to ensure margins, page numbers, and headers are correct. Many freelancers specialize in book formatting, so hiring someone to format your manuscript properly can save you time and frustration.

4) Use KDP to Publish the Book on Amazon and Barnes & Noble Press

Now that your manuscript is polished, it’s time to get it out there. Using platforms like Amazon KDP (Kindle Direct Publishing) and Barnes & Noble Press will allow you to self-publish without the need for a traditional publisher. Here’s how to do it:



  • Amazon KDP:
    1. Create a KDP account if you don’t already have one. Once logged in, you can start a new project for your book.
    2. Upload your manuscript in the appropriate format (usually a .docx, .epub, or PDF file).
    3. Upload your book cover (you can use the cover design provided by the freelancer).
    4. Set the price and royalty options. KDP offers a 70% royalty option for books priced between $2.99 and $9.99.
    5. Choose your distribution options. Amazon allows you to publish in multiple regions and make your book available for Kindle and print.
    6. Hit publish! Once approved, your book will be available for purchase on Amazon within 24-48 hours.
  • Barnes & Noble Press:
    1. Create an account on the Barnes & Noble Press platform.
    2. Upload your manuscript and cover art.
    3. Choose your pricing, royalty options, and distribution preferences.
    4. Hit publish! Barnes & Noble Press will also distribute your book to major retailers like Apple Books and Kobo.

By publishing on both Amazon KDP and Barnes & Noble Press, you maximize your book’s visibility and give readers more options to purchase your work.



Self-publishing has never been easier, and with the right tools and strategies, you can turn your dream of becoming an author into a reality. From writing the book to publishing it through platforms like KDP and Barnes & Noble Press, each step requires planning, professionalism, and dedication. By hiring professionals for proofreading, cover design, and formatting, you ensure that your book looks and reads like a polished, high-quality product. With persistence and attention to detail, you can successfully self-publish your book and share your ideas with the world.