Self-Publishing FAQs
Choose one of the following Categories to see answers to the questions most frequently asked by Authors.
Each Category provides concise answers as well as links to in-depth Information pages.
1) – Publishing choices, author rights and contracts
Make informed choices about how to publish, retain your rights, and buy only the services you need — with clear, fair terms that avoid vanity-style traps.
2) – Manuscript preparation and editorial options
Strengthen your manuscript with the right level of editing, proofreading and (for non-fiction) indexing — so the book reads cleanly and credibly.
3) – Book titles, cover design and Thema codes
Craft effective titles and subtitles, brief a designer well, align with genre expectations and use Thema codes to improve discoverability.
4) – ISBNs, barcodes and Copyright Libraries
Make your book order-ready and scannable with correct ISBNs and barcodes, and understand UK legal deposit so you stay compliant.
5) – Print options and production costs
Choose between POD, short-run and litho, set sensible quantities, price with confidence, and pack and post books without damage.
6) – Distribution and online sales
Get your book properly orderable via the trade, set realistic discounts and returns, and understand working with Waterstones & Gardners.
7) – Publicity, marketing and networking
Focus on what actually moves readers — reviews, recommendation sites, your Author webpage, social media and eBook platforms — plus guidance on fixed-price packages and realistic non-fiction marketing.