Self-publishing generally gives the author more control over timing, production choices and platform accounts while requiring the author to fund or coordinate production. Traditional publishing usually involves a publisher selecting the manuscript and acquiring defined rights under a contract. The right route depends on your goals and tolerance for time, control and upfront investment.
Control and timing
Self-publishing can move on the author’s timetable, while traditional acquisition and production schedules are controlled by the publisher.
Investment and commercial risk
Self-publishing authors normally fund production and marketing directly. Traditional publishers typically fund the books they acquire, subject to the contract.
Read the rights clauses
Whichever route you choose, understand which rights are granted, for how long, in which territories and what happens if the agreement ends.
