Kelly Schuknecht

Self-Publishing: 10 Things You Need to Know

If you are new to self-publishing, it can seem a little overwhelming at first, but there are plenty of great resources to help you decide if self-publishing is right for you and to answer all your questions on hot topics such as copyediting, copyrights, and book formatting. Below is a list of 10 must read articles for self-publishing authors. Each gives you helpful information to ensure you have a great self-publishing experience.

1. 4 Reasons to Fall in Love with Self-Publishing

Not only is self-publishing a huge trend among first time authors, but it is also becoming increasingly common for writers who previously used traditional publisher (and had great success) to switch to self-publishing. This article discusses the top four reasons why writers love self-publishing.

2. The Cost of Self-Publishing

The cost of self-publishing is a common question, and concern, for many writers. This article provides an honest look at the cost of publishing your book.

3. 5 Self-Publishing Mistakes You Can Avoid

Sometimes self-publishing gets a bad rep because of the amateur mistakes some authors make. This post will help you avoid those mistakes so you can be seen as a professional and your book can be taken seriously by readers and the publishing industry.

4. What is an ISBN?

This article explains what an ISBN is, if you need one, and how to get one.

5. Paperback vs. Hardcover: Which is Better?

This post discusses the pros and cons of paperback and hardcover books. It will help you decide which cover is best for your project.

6. Should You Create Your Own Cover?

A great book cover can significantly impact your book’s success. This article breaks down the pros and cons of creating your own book cover or hiring a graphic artist.

7. The Importance of a Compelling Back Cover Synopsis

The back cover of your book is also important. This article explains the importance of a compelling back cover synopsis and provides tips on creating one.

8. Copyediting 101

This article explains how copyediting is different from proofreading and why it is a good idea to consider hiring a professional copyeditor.

9. Top 7 Book Formatting Questions for Self Publishing Authors

One of the most popular topics I receive questions on is book formatting. This article tells you what you need to know.

10. Top 6 Self-Publishing Copyright Questions

Copyright is another hot topic among authors. This great article answers the most common questions, such as what is the fair use law and how do I know if something is copyright protected.

I’d love to know, what other questions do you have about self-publishing?

ABOUT KELLY SCHUKNECHT: Kelly Schuknecht is the Vice President of Outskirts Press. In addition to her contributions to the Outskirts Press blog at blog.outskirtspress.com, Kelly and a group of talented marketing experts offer book marketing services, support, and products to not only published Outskirts Press authors, but to all authors and professionals who are interested in marketing their books and/or careers. Learn more about Kelly on her blog at http://kellyschuknecht.com.

Kelly Speaks, Uncategorized, Writing

How to Find the Time to Finish Writing Your Book

One of the biggest complaints among writers is the lack of time to write. Almost every writer I know wishes they had more time to dedicate to their projects. As a writer myself, I understand how difficult it can be to juggle a job, a family, a home, a social life, AND a writing project, but I’ve also discovered some ways to find more time to write.

If you are ready to finally find time to finish your book, there is a simple solution — spend a little time on self-reflection. (Yes, I just told you to spend your time doing something other than writing.) You can’t figure out how to make more time for writing, until you know how you currently spend your time.

Here are a four simple steps to help finally find time to finish writing your book, and start publishing.

1) Be honest with yourself.

For one week, write down EXACTLY how you spend your time. Record each task and the amount of time you spend on it. This includes checking social media sites, commuting to work, watching TV, eating, etc. By doing this, you will get a clear picture how you are spending your time.

2) Make changes.

Now that you are aware of where all your time is going, you can find ways to make more time for writing. For instance, if you spend several hours at night watching TV, perhaps you could spend an hour of that time writing. If you notice you spend a lot more time on social media sites than you thought, you can free up some of your day by limiting the number of times you log on and how much time you spend online each time.

3) Figure out what works for you.

Another part of self reflection is figuring out what type of writer you and how your writing process works. For some people, morning writing sessions work best. Other people are night owls. Some people need to warm up before writing by reading an inspiring book or listening to music. Spend some time thinking about when and how you do your best work, and try to make your writing goals align with your personal style.

4) Get creative about the way you write.

Sometimes the easiest way to find time to write is by multitasking. In fact, some writers think ordinary activities like walking or cleaning improve their creativity. Thanks to today’s technology, multitasking has never been easier. You can combine exercising and writing by using a treadmill desk. (In fact, that is how I do all of my writing. I walk the entire time I’m working so I can cross writing and exercising off my to-do list.) Another option is voice writing software. You can talk your text while you do activities such as working outside, doing dishes, or driving to work. Just be sure to always carefully proofread your manuscript when using this type of software.

I’d love to know, what tips to you have for making more time to write?

Kelly Speaks

Merry Christmas, Everyone!

Merry Christmas, everyone. I hope each of you have a joyous holiday and have the opportunity to create wonderful memories with those you love. If you have a few moments, take some time to write down your thoughts, feelings, and memories from the day. Perhaps they will inspire a writing project later, and if not, at least you will always have something to help you remember this day.

Kelly Speaks, Uncategorized

Foreword Book Award Deadline Fast Approaching

ForeWord’s Book of the Year Awards 2013 is currently accepting entries for independently published books published in 2013. This includes self-published, university press, and POD books. All entries must be postmarked no later than January 15, 2014, but applicants are encouraged to submit their entries as soon as possible.

Eligibility

Any independently published titles in any format—including eBooks—published in 2013. New editions of previously issued books are eligible with newly issued ISBNs. Books that are postmarked after the deadline will not be eligible.

Why Enter

Book contests are a great way for self-published authors to build their credibility and promote their book. ForeWord’s Book of the Year Awards were established to bring increased attention from librarians and booksellers to the literary achievements of independent publishers and their authors. A jury of readers, librarians and booksellers select their top categories as well as choose the winning titles. Their decisions take into consideration editorial excellence, professional production, originality of the narrative, author credentials relative to the book, and the value the title adds to its genre.

With the holidays right around the corner, it is easy to get distracted and run out of time, so it is a good idea to submit your entry now so you don’t forget and miss the January deadline. For more information on how to enter, visit https://www.forewordreviews.com/services/book-awards/botya/.

Kelly Speaks, Uncategorized

NaNoWriMo is Over, Now What?

Congratulations to everyone who finished the NaNoWriMo challenge as well as those who worked on their manuscripts but didn’t finish. Even though NaNoWriMo is over, you can still finish your book or start the publishing process. Here are three things to do now that NaNoWriMo has ended.

1. Set a new goal.

Whether or not you finished the challenge, now is the perfect time to set a new goal for yourself. There are only a few of 2013 left, so why not use them to do something that will help make your writing dreams come true. Some possible goals include finishing your manuscript or editing your first draft.

2. Edit, edit, edit.

NaNoWriMo is all about writing a certain number of words in a month, so writers save revisions and edits for later. It is essential for you to go back and edit your manuscript for developmental issues such as plot and characters as well as grammar and style. I highly recommend writers have a professional editor review your manuscript before publication.

3. Publish!

Once your manuscript is complete and ready for publication, start researching publishing options. Whether you choose to self-publish or use a traditional publisher, research is important. Each publisher offers different services, and traditional publishers are very specific about the type of books they will publish.

I’d love to know, what are your plans now that NaNoWriMo is over?

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