At some point, every writer gets here. You’ve written something, probably shown it to a few people and now you’re trying to figure out what comes next. Do you go the traditional route and try to get a publisher? Or do you take control and publish it yourself?
Both options sound good in different ways, and that’s where most writers get stuck, though it sounds like a simple decision. There are different opinions, and a lot of mixed information.
The truth is, there’s no single right answer. What works for one writer might not work for another. So instead of overcomplicating things, let’s break both options down in a simple way so you can decide what actually works for you.
Traditional Publishing
Traditional publishing isn’t just “submit and get published.” There’s a process behind it, and it helps to know what that actually looks like before you decide.
It usually starts with your manuscript. You either submit it directly to a publisher or, in many cases, to a literary agent first. If an agent picks it up, they then pitch it to publishers on your behalf. If a publisher is interested, your manuscript goes through a review process. This is where they decide if it fits what they’re looking for.
Once it’s accepted, the real work begins. Your book goes through editing, sometimes multiple rounds of it. After that comes things like cover design, formatting, and preparing it for print and distribution. Eventually, the book is released through bookstores, online platforms, and other channels.
It sounds like a long process, and that’s because it usually is.
The Good and The Not-So-Good
One of the biggest advantages of traditional publishing is the support you get. You’re not doing everything alone. There’s a team helping shape your book, from editors to designers. That kind of guidance can really improve the final result.
There’s also the reach. Publishers already have connections with bookstores and distributors, which means your book has a better chance of getting into more places. And in some cases, you may receive an advance before your book even starts selling.
On the other hand, getting in can be tough. Publishers receive a lot of submissions and only accept a small number. Even a good manuscript can be turned down if it doesn’t fit what they’re looking for at the time.
It also takes time. From submission to actual publication, the process can take months or even years.
Another thing to keep in mind is control. Once a publisher takes on your book, you may not have the final say on everything, especially things like the cover or certain edits. And while publishers do help with marketing, you’ll still need to promote your book yourself.
Self-Publishing
Self-publishing is more straightforward, but it also puts more responsibility on you. Instead of submitting your manuscript and waiting for approval, you take full control of the process from start to finish.
Once your book is ready, you upload it to a self-publishing platform. From there, you’ll usually go through a few steps like formatting your manuscript, uploading your cover, setting your price, and choosing where your book will be available. After that, your book can go live within a few days.
That speed is one of the biggest reasons many writers choose this route. You don’t have to wait around for months hoping someone says yes. You decide when your book is ready. But that also means you’re responsible for how good the final result is.
For a list of self-publishing sites you can consider if you decide to self-publish, check out my post on 10 best self-publishing sites.
The Good and The Not-So-Good
The biggest advantage of self-publishing is control. You decide how your book looks, what goes into it, when it’s released, and how it’s priced. Nothing gets changed unless you choose to change it. Having that level of control can be freeing, especially if you have a clear vision for your work.
It’s also much faster. Once everything is ready, you can publish almost immediately instead of waiting months or even years.
Another thing many writers like is the earning potential. Self-publishing platforms often offer higher royalties per sale, which means you keep more of what your book makes. And over time, you can build your own audience and grow your name as a writer without depending on a publisher.
But there are cons.
You’re in charge of everything. Editing, cover design, formatting, marketing. Some platforms give you tools to help with these, but they don’t replace the effort needed to make your book stand out.
There’s also the cost side of things. While uploading your book might be free, creating a quality book usually isn’t. Professional editing, a good cover, and proper promotion can cost a lot.
And then there’s visibility. Publishing your book doesn’t automatically mean people will find it. There are thousands of books being uploaded all the time, and without consistent promotion, it’s easy to get overlooked and not get sales.
It also takes time in a different way. You’re not waiting for approval, but you are spending time managing everything yourself, before and after publishing.
Traditional vs Self-Publishing (Quick Comparison)
| Traditional Publishing | Self-Publishing | |
|---|---|---|
| Control | Limited control over final product | Full control over everything |
| Speed | Slow (months to years) | Fast (can publish anytime) |
| Upfront Cost | No upfront cost | You may need to invest in editing, design, etc. |
| Earnings | Lower royalties, possible advance | Higher royalties per sale |
| Acceptance | Hard to get accepted | No approval needed |
| Support | Professional editing, design, distribution | You handle everything (or outsource it) |
| Marketing | Some support, but you still promote | Fully your responsibility |
| Distribution | Wider access to bookstores and libraries | Mostly online unless expanded distribution is used |
| Time Investment | Less hands-on after acceptance | More work on your end |
I hope these comparisons help you make your final decision as an author.
