Publishing a book through a professional publishing firm can be fairly expensive. But thanks to digitisation, authors can now publish their own books.
Self-publishing allows authors to have more control over their publishing process than ever, but the path from writing to reaching readers requires a range of tools. In this article, you will find out important tools every author must be conversant with for self-publishing purposes.
Here’s a list of the top 8 tools every self-published author should consider, covering writing, editing, design, marketing and audience engagement.
1. Google Docs
This is a highly versatile, free and collaborative writing tool that has become a favourite among self-published authors, writers and content creators. Its cloud-based nature allows users to create, edit and store documents online and be able to access from any device connected to the Internet.
Key Features:
• Real-Time Collaboration and Sharing: One of the most powerful features of Google Docs is its real-time collaboration. Authors can share documents with others, such as beta readers or co-authors, allowing multiple people to view, comment and edit simultaneously. This capability is invaluable for collaborative projects, as it speeds up the revision process and allows for immediate feedback.
With permission settings, you can control who can view, comment or edit the document.
• Cloud Storage and Accessibility: Since Google Docs is cloud-based, documents are automatically saved to Google Drive, reducing the risk of losing work due to device issues. Additionally, files are accessible from any device with an internet connection, making it easy for authors to work on their manuscripts on the go, whether from a computer, tablet or smartphone.
• Version History and Track Changes: Google Docs maintains a detailed version history, which is incredibly useful for tracking progress or reverting to previous versions. This feature gives authors the freedom to experiment with changes, knowing they can easily go back to an earlier draft if needed. Additionally, the “Suggesting” mode acts as a “track-changes” feature, making it easier to review and accept or reject edits made by others.
• Compatibility and Easy Export Options: Google Docs supports exporting documents in multiple formats, including Microsoft Word, PDF, and plain text. This makes it simple for authors to format their manuscripts as needed for different publishing platforms, editors, or other collaborators. Additionally, Google Docs can import Microsoft Word files, so authors who start in Word can easily switch to Google Docs for collaboration or backup purposes.
• Add-Ons and Extensions for Enhanced Functionality: Google Docs offers a variety of add-ons that enhance its functionality, allowing authors to customise their writing environment. Add-ons such as Grammarly for grammar checking, Thesaurus for word suggestions, and Table of Contents for navigation make Google Docs a flexible tool that can be tailored to fit an author’s specific needs.
Google Docs is a robust, accessible and cost-effective tool for self-published authors. With its real-time collaboration, cloud storage, version control, compatibility with multiple formats, and support for useful add-ons, Google Docs streamlines the writing and editing process.
It might not replace advanced formatting software, but for drafting, revising and collaborating, it is an invaluable part of an author’s toolkit.
This particular tool is my best.
2. Scrivener
This is a comprehensive writing software. It is a powerful tool designed specifically for writers working on long-form content, from novels to non-fiction books. It enables authors to structure their manuscripts, organise research, and manage notes within one application, making it ideal for authors juggling complex plots, themes or research.
This tool comes with beautiful features, including customisable templates, drag-and-drop organisation to rearrange sections or chapters, a split-screen mode for comparing different parts of your manuscript side-by-side, export options for saving files in formats compatible with Kindle, PDF, Word, and more.
Scrivener is available on Windows, macOS, and iOS, so authors can access and work on their manuscripts from multiple devices.
3. Grammarly
Grammarly is an advanced editing tool. Editing is essential for self-published authors, and Grammarly provides a huge grammar-checking service that extends beyond basic corrections. It offers real-time suggestions to improve grammar, spelling, readability and tone, making it invaluable for producing polished, professional writing.
Key Features:
• Real-Time Grammar and Spell Check: This allows for instant feedback on grammar, spelling and punctuation.
• Readability and Clarity Suggestions: It provides tip to make sentences clearer and more effective.
• Tone Adjustment: It suggests sentences that help refine your writing for your audience.
• Plagiarism Checker: This is very important for authors as plagiarism is a criminal offense. Hence, Grammarly ensures originality by cross-checking your work with millions of web pages.
Grammarly can be used via a browser extension, web app or desktop app, making it flexible to use at any stage of writing. The free version covers the basics, while the premium version provides more comprehensive suggestions, making it a solid choice for self-editing.
4. Vellum
This is for professional book formatting. Vellum is a high-quality formatting tool for creating professional ebooks and print-ready files. Its user-friendly interface and drag-and-drop function makes it easy to design layouts that meet industry standards without needing a graphic design background.
5. Canva
This is every self-publisher’s life saver, especially for book cover design and marketing graphics.
It is useful for creating a striking book cover for attracting readers. Canva is a fantastic tool for DIY cover design and marketing materials. With a library of templates and design elements, Canva makes it easy for authors to create professional-quality graphics without a background in design.
As a graphic designer, I would say Canva “has almost spoiled the market for us”. You know what that means.
Key Features:
• Templates for Book Covers and Social Media Graphics: You can find ready-to-use templates for creating book covers, social media posts, and more.
• Customisable Design Elements: You can choose from thousands of images, icons, fonts and backgrounds.
• Drag-and-Drop Interface: It is user-friendly for easy customisation.
Canva is available as a free web app, with the option to upgrade for access to a wider range of premium images, templates, and design tools.
As a designer, I would advise self-publishers to use the premium version for access to premium elements. With this and a basic knowledge in graphic design, you will save yourself some cash hiring a graphic designer.
6. KDP (Kindle Direct Publishing)
This is very important for publishing and distribution.
Every author should be conversant with Amazon’s Kindle Direct Publishing (KDP) platform. This allows self-published authors to reach a global audience with both ebooks and print editions. It provides direct access to Amazon’s massive readership, and authors can use Amazon’s promotional tools to enhance visibility.
Key Features:
• eBook and Print Distribution: Publish both formats and reach a vast audience.
• Royalties and Pricing Control: The goal of publishing a book is to make profit. Hence, it has flexible royalty options and pricing tools.
• Promotional Tools: Includes Kindle Unlimited, Kindle Select, and other tools to increase visibility.
• Real-Time Sales Dashboard: This helps you to track your sales and make informed marketing decisions.
KDP is user-friendly and its promotional programs, like Kindle Unlimited, can boost visibility. It’s ideal for authors looking for a direct way to publish, sell, and market their books.
7. Google Keyword Planner
Every professional writer/author understands the importance of keyword research. With Google Keyword Planner, you can engage in SEO research and optimise your content.
To make your book more discoverable online, Google Keyword Planner helps you identify relevant keywords and phrases that potential readers might search for. This is essential for creating SEO-friendly descriptions, blog posts, and other marketing content.
Key Features:
• Keyword Suggestions: It helps you find relevant keywords that readers search for in your book’s genre.
• Search Volume Data: This allows you to understand the popularity and competitiveness of each keyword.
• Content Ideas: It is useful for brainstorming blog topics, book descriptions, and social media posts.
By optimising your book’s description, title and metadata with the right keywords, you increase the likelihood of it appearing in search results, making it easier for potential readers to find your book. So, by all means, make Google keyword planner your friend.
8. ConvertKit
Nobody authors a book without the intention of making sales. For this to be achieved, intense marketing is required. This is why this tool is required – for email marketing and audience engagement.
Building a reader community is essential for long-term success, and ConvertKit is an email marketing tool designed to help authors stay connected with their audience. With its user-friendly interface, this tool allows authors to manage email lists, create automated campaigns, and build personalised relationships with their readers.
Key Features:
• Subscriber Management: With this, you can organise and segment your email list based on reader preferences.
• Automated Campaigns: It allows you to set up email sequences that automatically send based on reader actions.
• Customisable Landing Pages: Landing pages are important to attract new subscribers.
• Analytics and Insights: These allow you to track email open rates, click-through rates, and other key metrics which will help you to make informed marketing decisions and strategies.
ConvertKit’s setup makes it easy for you as an author to engage with readers, promote book launches, and offer exclusive content to build loyalty. It’s especially useful for creating a community of readers who are interested in future projects.
Conclusion
Self-published authors have access to an impressive range of tools, from Scrivener’s all-in-one writing platform to Canva’s design capabilities. These tools cover essential stages in the publishing process, including writing, editing, design and distribution, providing a solid foundation for creating and publishing a professional book.
Which ones sound most interesting to you?
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