Every writer dreams of seeing their book in the hands of eager readers, but the path to publishing is filled with choices.
Self-Publishing vs. Traditional Publishing: Which is Right for You?
You’ve poured your heart and soul into writing your book. Now comes the big question: How do you publish it?
Do you pursue traditional publishing, where a publishing house handles production, distribution, and marketing? Or do you take matters into your own hands through self-publishing, controlling every aspect of your book’s journey?
Both paths have their advantages and challenges, and choosing the right one depends on your goals, resources, and patience. Let’s break it down so you can make an informed decision.
What is Traditional Publishing?
Traditional publishing is the classic route where an author submits their manuscript to a publishing house, hoping for acceptance. If chosen, the publisher takes care of editing, printing, distribution, and marketing. In return, the author receives royalties, usually between 5-15% per book sale.
The Process of Traditional Publishing:
- Write a Winning Manuscript – Your book needs to be polished and compelling.
- Find a Literary Agent – Most large publishers only accept agented submissions. The agent helps sell your book to publishers in exchange for a commission (typically 15%).
- Submit to Publishers – Your agent sends proposals to publishers. Rejection is common, but persistence is key.
- Sign a Contract – If a publisher is interested, they offer a publishing deal with an advance payment.
- Editing & Production – The publisher refines the book, designs the cover, and prepares it for release.
- Marketing & Distribution – The publisher handles sales and promotion, getting your book into bookstores and online retailers.
Pros of Traditional Publishing
✅ Credibility & Prestige – Being published by a major house boosts your reputation and opens doors to more opportunities.
✅ No Upfront Costs – The publisher covers editing, design, printing, and marketing expenses.
✅ Wider Distribution – Your book gets into major bookstores, libraries, and literary spaces.
✅ Professional Editing & Design – Your book benefits from industry experts.
✅ Potential for an Advance – Publishers may offer advance payments before your book even sells.
Cons of Traditional Publishing
❌ High Rejection Rate – Publishers receive thousands of submissions, and most get rejected.
❌ Loss of Creative Control – The publisher decides the cover design, pricing, and final edits.
❌ Slow Process – It can take 1-2 years for your book to reach readers after acceptance.
❌ Low Royalties – Most authors earn 5-15% per book sale, much lower than self-publishing.
❌ Marketing May Still Fall on You – Unless you’re a big-name author, you may have to do your own marketing.
What is Self-Publishing?
Self-publishing allows you to publish your book independently, without a traditional publisher. You handle everything: editing, cover design, formatting, publishing, and marketing. Platforms like Amazon Kindle Direct Publishing (KDP), IngramSpark, and Draft2Digital make it easy for authors to launch their books.
The Process of Self-Publishing:
- Write & Edit Your Book – Consider hiring a professional editor to refine your manuscript.
- Format & Design the Cover – Use tools like Canva, Vellum, or Reedsy, or hire a designer.
- Choose a Publishing Platform – Options include Amazon KDP, IngramSpark, Apple Books, and Kobo.
- Set Your Price & Upload the Book – Decide on pricing and whether you want a print, eBook, or audiobook version.
- Market & Sell Your Book – You’re responsible for book promotion, advertising, and outreach.
Pros of Self-Publishing
✅ Full Creative Control – You decide everything: cover, pricing, distribution, and marketing.
✅ Higher Royalties – Earn up to 70% on eBooks (compared to 5-15% with traditional publishing).
✅ Faster Time to Market – Publish your book in weeks instead of years.
✅ Global Reach – Amazon and other platforms distribute worldwide.
✅ No Gatekeepers – No need for agent approvals or publisher acceptance.
Cons of Self-Publishing
❌ Upfront Costs – You pay for editing, cover design, and marketing.
❌ Marketing is on You – Without a publisher, you must promote your book.
❌ Limited Physical Bookstore Access – Many bookstores prefer traditionally published books.
❌ Learning Curve – You must understand book formatting, marketing, and publishing logistics.
Which Option is Right for You?
Choose Traditional Publishing if…
- You value prestige and credibility in the literary world.
- You don’t want to handle marketing and book production.
- You’re patient and willing to wait years for acceptance and publication.
- You’re okay with lower royalties in exchange for publisher support.
Choose Self-Publishing if…
- You want control over your book’s journey from start to finish.
- You’re willing to invest in editing, design, and marketing.
- You want higher royalties and faster publishing.
- You enjoy learning new skills like book marketing and advertising.
Hybrid Publishing: The Best of Both Worlds?
Some authors choose a hybrid approach—they self-publish their first book, build an audience, and later pitch to a traditional publisher.
Alternatively, some hybrid publishers help with publishing for a fee, offering professional services while giving you higher royalties than traditional deals.
Final Thoughts
Both traditional and self-publishing have their advantages and challenges. The right choice depends on your goals, resources, and willingness to market yourself.
The good news? There’s no wrong answer—only the path that best aligns with your vision.
Have you considered self-publishing or traditional publishing? What’s your biggest concern? Drop a comment below!