If you’ve written a manuscript or if you’re in the process of writing one, there are many things you have already learned. In addition, there are even more things you may need to know. If you’re a first time author, there are details that may not have even occurred to you that will definitely make or break the success of your hard work.

In the history of writing, people who write have never had the benefit of the opportunities that are now available to help them see their dream come true.

In the past, it didn’t matter how passionate a writer was about the story they had to tell, the question of whether their book would become published was a matter that was mostly beyond their control.

In truth, less than 1% of authors who hope to be accepted through traditional publishing methods will actually reach the contract stage with their manuscript. At the end of only one day, thousands of potential authors have been rejected and may be left wondering if there is any hope of ever seeing their words in print.

If traditional publishing has been your dream, don’t be discouraged by the facts. Let’s take a moment to define the principal ways books can now be published.

Traditional Publishing – The business of producing books to sell to the public. A book publisher buys the rights to an author’s manuscript. The publisher then has control the writer’s work and makes all of the final decisions about the content and how it will be presented. Often, the writer is expected to share costs of promoting the book and may receive very little financial return, if any.

Subsidy Publishing – A partnership between a publisher and an author. Both parties provide an investment in moving a manuscript through the stages of development all the way to becoming a book in print. The profits are shared.

Self-publishing – To publish a book using the author’s own resources and finances without the help of an established publisher. The author has complete control over every aspect of the process and retains 100% of the rights and profits.

Assisted self-publishing – To publish a book using the author’s own resources and finances and the services of an experienced professional. Some authors may pick and choose which parts of the publishing process they will pay to have help with. Others may agree to contract the services of a company or an individual who will basically do everything for them, yet the author will retain 100% of their own rights and profits.

If you’re writing a book and need help with the publishing process, please let I Am Published! know how we can help you. We offer a wide range of services and several affordable packages depending on your needs.