Author's Checklist

From manuscript to printed book.

Everything you need to do before your book is ready to print, organized into six simple stages. Tick each item as you go, and we'll keep your place. It's the roadmap we wish every first-time author had.

Your progress: 0%

Your progress saves automatically in this browser. Close the page and pick up right where you left off.

Write & Edit

Finish and polish your manuscript

0/4

Before anything else, your words need to be finished and clean. Printing locks your book in, so this is the stage to get right first.

A note on editing & design: A&A is a printer, not a publisher. We don't offer editing or cover design in-house. But we've worked with authors for 45 years and are always happy to point you toward trusted independent professionals. Just reach a human and ask.

Prepare Your Files

Get your interior print-ready

0/5

This is where most first-time files need the most work. Getting your interior set up to the right size and specs means a faster turnaround and no surprises at the press.

Not sure your files are right? That's what we're here for. We check every file before printing and will flag anything that needs attention. You can also start from our templates to get it right the first time.

Cover Your Book

Design a cover that sells

0/4

People do judge a book by its cover. A professional, well-made cover is one of the best investments you can make in your book's success.

We don't design covers in-house, but we print them beautifully, and we'll make sure your designer has the exact dimensions they need. Need a referral? Reach a human.

Get Your Identifiers

ISBN, barcode & copyright

0/3

If you want your book in bookstores, libraries, or online retailers, you'll need an ISBN. Here's what to sort out before you print.

Print Your Book

Decide how to print

0/4

Now the fun part. A few decisions here affect your cost per book and how you'll fulfill orders.

Sell Your Book

Get it into readers' hands

0/4

The best time to start marketing is before your book is printed. Here's how to set yourself up to actually sell the copies you print.

We don't offer marketing services, but we give you real tools (royalty-free Author Pages, a Bookstore, print on demand) and honest advice. If you hire an outside marketer, vet them carefully: plenty overpromise.