{"id":99,"date":"2023-08-01T11:11:51","date_gmt":"2023-08-01T18:11:51","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/booksprout.co\/fivestar\/?p=99"},"modified":"2023-12-13T11:15:09","modified_gmt":"2023-12-13T19:15:09","slug":"youve-written-a-book-now-what-ensuring-quality-before-hitting-publish","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/booksprout.co\/fivestar\/the-package\/youve-written-a-book-now-what-ensuring-quality-before-hitting-publish\/","title":{"rendered":"You\u2019ve Written a Book, Now What? Ensuring Quality Before Hitting \u2018Publish\u2019"},"content":{"rendered":"\n

Congratulations! You\u2019ve crossed the finish line of writing your manuscript, the first significant milestone in your journey as a self-published author. But where do you go from here? The journey from a completed manuscript to a polished, published book can seem challenging, but don\u2019t worry\u2014we\u2019ve got you covered. The steps in this article will help ensure your book doesn\u2019t just reach the readers but captivates their interest with a high-quality product. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

First Step: Engaging an Alpha Reader<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Before you send your manuscript off to an editor, consider engaging an alpha reader. Alpha readers<\/strong>\u2014those trusted advisors who are willing to read your raw manuscript\u2014are invaluable<\/strong>. They provide feedback and constructive criticism, pointing out plot holes or inconsistencies in your characters, thus helping you strengthen your storyline as it develops.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Pro Tip #1:<\/strong> Wondering how to find a good Alpha Reader? You can start by doing a quick search within Facebook groups with the term “Alpha Readers.” Many groups will come up with that query and all you have to do is read the description, join the group or groups that are most relevant for you, and post an inquiry. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

It’s worthwhile to do the same kind of search on Goodreads<\/a>, although Facebook groups have a greater selection. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

A few other ways to find Alpha readers are by meeting up with readers in your local community. Join a local book club or author group and as you build relationships with the community members, you can feel free to ask if one of them would be willing to help you. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Second Step: Seeking Help from a Developmental Editor<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Once you\u2019ve incorporated your alpha reader\u2019s feedback and feel good about your draft, consider involving a developmental editor, especially if you’re a first-time author or trying out a new genre. These experts evaluate your book\u2019s content, plot development, characterization, and structure, taking your manuscript from good to great. This stage can be a bit nerve-wracking, but it\u2019s an essential part of refining your work <\/strong>and making it the best it can be.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Pro Tip #2:<\/strong> If you know you need a developmental editor but you don’t know where to find one, these are the resources we recommend. These platforms place an emphasis on ensuring quality and trustworthiness. For all of these resources, we recommend that you read the reviews about the professional to ensure you’re a good fit: <\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Reedsy<\/a><\/h4>\n\n\n\n