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Publishing Map

The Definitive Publishing Map

How a book gets from your head to a reader's hands. Every path, every stage, what it costs, and how long it takes.

Updated 24 August 2026

Select Traditional trade: £0 / $0 (they pay); 2–4 years after signing, plus querying Traditional trade Select Independent / small press: £0 / $0 (they pay); 1–2 years Independent / small press Select Self-publishing: ~$0 to $8,000+ (you pay); 3–8 months Self-publishing Select Hybrid: Thousands to tens of thousands; 6–12 months (~9 typical) Hybrid Select Specialised / institutional: Usually £0 / $0; 1–2 years+ Specialised / institutional

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Common publishing questions

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Five routes, one decision Choose a publishing path Twelve stages, five phases The publishing process Cost and time, before quotes Publishing cost calculator Before you sign or pay Check a publishing offer Publish before the finished book Serialise a book

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