Self-Publishing Book Launch Timeline

If you haven’t already noticed, I love a good timeline. And launching a new book is no exception.

In the writing community, there is a lot of debate on plotting versus pantsing (i.e. flying by the seat of your pants) when writing a manuscript, and I am firmly planted on the plotting side of the debate. The same applies to timelines and checklists relating to editing and launching your book.

Below is a sample timeline for launching your next book!

Also check out the Self-Publishing Checklist here.

Step 1 – Outline your manuscript.
Step 2 – Begin writing! And set a timeline for estimated completion.
Step 3 – Book your editors, cover designer, and formatter based on your estimated completion date.
Step 4 – Optional: Post Title and Blurb Reveal
– Three to Four months prior to Release Date
Step 5 – Post your cover reveal teaser
– Three months prior to Release Date
Step 6 – Post your cover reveal
– Day after teaser
Step 7 – Open ARC Sign-Ups
– Two to Three months prior to Release, depending on your current team
Step 8 – Work with your editors and formatter to create a timeline for these services. Depending on turnaround times, you may need to start this process earlier than you think!
Step 9 – Set up Pre-Ordering
– At least Four to Six weeks prior to Release Date
Step 10 – Send ARCs out
– Two to Three weeks prior to Release Date
Step 11 – Release Day!

During the three months prior to launching a new book, try to post at least once per day on social media. Marketing is extremely important to a launch of any product. You could write the best book in the world, but if no one knows about it, it won’t be scene.

What do you do differently when you launch?