Traditional vs. Self-Publishing
Before you continue, please keep in mind that content on this site provides a broad outline of the publishing process for the purpose of publishing as an independent author.
Let’s say you’ve just finished a story that you’re incredibly proud of, or it’s almost finished and ready for the next steps (first things first, congrats!).
Now, if your manuscript is acquired (or bought) by an editor at a trade publisher—with or without an agent—the publishing house will handle all the editing, copyediting, design, production, and packing and distribution. Some publishers will cover the marketing, advertising, and publicity aspects as well for certain more high-profile authors and titles. This is also considered the traditional approach to publishing a book when done through a large or commercial publishing house. In other words, there’s already a dedicated team in place that takes your manuscript from a Word doc to store shelves, so you as an author aren’t financially responsible for compensating each person in the process. However, in exchange, the publisher will own the rights to your work and have creative control, and after the initial advance is paid, you’ll be compensated in low royalties based on book sales.
It’s important to understand that one of the main differences between traditional and self-publishing is the personal, upfront costs for authors. Independent authors will be responsible for all the costs involved with publishing and selling a book. But as you review this content, please keep in mind that while some aspects and responsibilities may vary by the publishing house, the processes explained throughout are the standard used in the traditional path as well.
Do What’s Best for You
Publishing on your own can be a huge mental and financial undertaking, so the aim of this site is to help prepare emerging authors for the steps necessary to self-publish a well edited, designed, and printed book. And of course, there are many self-service options online, independent publishers, and hybrid publishers available if hiring individual professionals will create a financial burden. As a creator, you should always do what’s best for you!
Additionally, writing a book is a huge accomplishment, and choosing which direction to take next can be a tough decision. Here’s a great infographic by BookBaby that provides a very quick overview of the pros and cons of both publishing routes. For a much more in-depth comparison, we recommend watching Writing Paths: Pros and Cons of Traditional Publishing and Self-Publishing by The Word. The authors featured in this chat share their personal experiences on topics including costs, marketing, distribution, research and more.
And if you’ve decided you’re more interested in traditional publishing (through acquisition), your first step is to find a great agent! The Equity Directory is a great resource for finding the right one to help pitch your story and find the best publishing fit. And Penguin Random House UK has created a great guide that breaks down “Getting An Agent,” “What is a Literary Agent?” and “How To Pitch Your Book to An Agent.”
We also encourage you to read on throughout the website and learn more about the publishing process so you’re better equipped with some general knowledge once you find an agent.
Key Takeaways
Traditional Publishing
Major Pros . . .
The publishing house handles all the costs involved in making a book.
You’ll have a dedicated team that consists of an editor, copy editors(s), designer(s), a managing editor, and production manager (and in some cases, the team also includes a marketing manager and publicist).
The publisher manages the printing, packaging, storage, and distribution of your book.
Typically, authors are paid a cash advance up front before the book is even published.
Traditional publishers tend to already have the influence and prestige associated with their name and business, which helps with exposure in the market and placement in bookstores and libraries—giving your book a leg up.
Major Cons . . .
Since your manuscript is being purchased, you're also selling a considerable amount of rights to your work.
Your publisher will have a great deal of creative control, specifically around the design, production and marketing of your book.
Once the book is published, as an author, you’ll be paid in royalties (7%–30% depending on your contract), but the publishing house will get a cut of profits from your book’s sales as well.
Based on the size of the house and their specific procedures, from acquisition to production, the process can take anywhere from 1–2 years.
The prerequisites needed to get a book deal can be tedious and exhausting. It can take quite some time to find a reputable agent to represent you. Then after several more months of waiting for publishers to review thousands of submissions, your manuscript might get acquired (most likely after many rejection letters).
Self-Publishing
Major Pros . . .
You’ll have full ownership of your written work.
Whether you’re hiring professionals or taking the self-service route, you’ll have much more creative control over the entire process.
Your royalties will be higher (50–100%) since a third party publisher won’t be owed a portion of the book’s profits.
There will be significantly less gatekeeping.
When working with individual professionals, your book can be finished and published within just a few weeks or months if there’s effective communication throughout the entire process.
Major Cons . . .
As an author, you’ll be responsible for all the costs of publishing your book.
Some level of project management is necessary when hiring and working with individual professionals or using a self-service route to help with each step of the process.
Storage and distribution may become a burden if you decide to print in bulk without having the space necessary to store the books.
You’re responsible for effectively marketing and advertising your book to increase visibility and sales.
Along with the many hats you’re already wearing, you’ll take on the role of bookseller as well to get your book into stores and libraries.
Publishers often provide a good level of guidance and support throughout the entire process, which might be a little harder to come by with self-publishing.