How to Self-Publish and Market Your Book

What you'll learn

Prepare, design and market your own publication with our writing and publishing classes in Sydney. 

Are you an aspiring author with a dream of publishing your own book? The rise of independent publishing has made it easier than ever to share your stories with the world. In this one-day workshop, you’ll learn the essential steps and tools needed to successfully navigate the world of indie publishing. Whether you’re a fiction writer, non-fiction author, or have a unique project, this workshop will equip you with the knowledge to self-publish and market your book effectively.

What You’ll Learn

• Understanding the indie publishing landscape and how it compares to traditional publishing
• How to prepare your manuscript for self-publishing
• The platforms available for self-publishing, including Amazon Kindle Direct Publishing (KDP), IngramSpark, and more
• Essential tools and resources for formatting, cover design, and editing
• Setting up your book for print-on-demand (POD) and eBook distribution
• Building an effective marketing and sales strategy for indie authors

Learning Outcomes

By the end of this workshop, it is intended that you will be able to: 

• Identify the key differences between traditional and indie publishing 
• Prepare a manuscript that’s ready for publication 
• Navigate popular self-publishing platforms and tools 
• Format a manuscript for print and eBook versions 
• Develop a basic marketing strategy tailored for indie authors 
• Understand the financial aspects, including royalties and pricing strategies

Course Content

1. Introduction to Indie Publishing 

• Overview of the independent publishing industry
• Key differences from traditional publishing
• Summary of key platforms (Amazon, IngramSpark, Draft2Digital)

2. Manuscript Preparation 

• How to finalise your manuscript using beta readers, editors, proofreading

3. Writing a sales page or blurb

• Key elements of a successful blurb
• Understanding book metadata

4. Designing Your Book Cover

• DIY cover design tools and professional services

5. Inner book matter

• ISBNs, copyright page, acknowledgments and more

6. Book formatting

• Book formatting tools (Word, Atticus, Vellum)
• Formatting for ebook and print
• Walkthrough of book formatting

7. Book Pricing

• Book Pricing techniques
• Understanding royalties and distribution fees
• Budgeting for indie publishing

8. Distributing your book

• Step-by-step guide to uploading your manuscript to Amazon KDP

9. Marketing Your Indie Book

• Building a launch strategy
• Promotional tools to market your book

Who Should Attend

This workshop is ideal for aspiring authors, writers, and creatives who want to take control of the publishing process and bring their work to life without relying on traditional publishing houses.

Note: This course is not suitable for those writing children's picture books.

What to Bring

• A laptop or tablet for notes and activities