Free author tool
Publishing timeline
Pick the date you want your book to go on sale and this free planner works backward to show when each stage has to begin. It covers editing, cover design, typesetting and ebook files, proofs, pre-orders and the marketing campaign. Late starts are the usual reason a launch date slips, so use the result to set a start date with room to spare.
Inputs
Result Estimate
Start editing by
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A comfortable schedule for a professionally edited book. Faster timelines are possible with a clean manuscript.
How to Use the Publishing Timeline
- Choose your target launch date.
- Select the length of your manuscript so the editing stage is sized sensibly.
- Read the start date for each stage, from the first edit to the pre-order and marketing push.
- Add a buffer if you expect slow feedback, because revision rounds depend on how quickly you reply.
How the Publishing Timeline Works
A full publishing run takes about 4 to 8 weeks once the manuscript is final, so the tool counts stages back from your launch date. Pre-orders and advance reader copies begin four weeks before launch. Proofreading and proof review take about two weeks and typesetting with ebook files about three weeks.
Cover design runs alongside editing and needs about four weeks. Editing takes three weeks for a short manuscript, five for a standard one and seven for a long one, and the tool adds a one week buffer before typesetting begins.
The marketing campaign starts eight weeks before launch so there is time to build a list and line up early readers.
Things to Know Before You Rely on the Result
- These are planning estimates, not promised turnaround times. Your project schedule is confirmed in writing when you hire a team.
- Developmental editing and heavy rewrites take longer than the figures above.
- Print proofs shipped by post can add days, so allow extra time if you order a physical proof.
Publishing Timeline FAQs
How long does it take to publish a book?
Once the manuscript is final, a typical project takes about 4 to 8 weeks. Writing and editing come before that and vary with the book.
When should I start pre-orders?
About four weeks before launch is a sound default. That gives readers time to find the book and gives you time to collect early reviews.
Can I publish faster?
Sometimes, if the manuscript is clean and you answer quickly. Rushing proofs and design is where errors creep in, so protect those stages.
Related Free Utilities
These free utilities from SEO Site Checker, a separate site, pair well with this tool: Merge PDF, PDF Compressor, Split PDF. Check their terms before uploading anything private.
More Free Author Tools
Use the tools together, starting with word count and ending with keywords. See every tool on our free author tools page.
Want an Expert to Take Over?
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