Self publishing in India is a relatively new concept and with a lack of infrastructure compared to more mature self-publishing markets if can prove to be an expensive and arduous exercise.

This means it’s vital to be aware of all elements within the self-publishing journey in order to be able to make a fully informed choice when it comes to production, cover design, marketing, PR, pricing and distribution – to name but a few.

So, here is our must-have 9-point checklist to successfully self-publish your book.

1. Get a good editor

There's nothing more embarrassing than a big run of books full of mistakes. This is especially apparent if you are not confident in all aspects of English grammar, so if you're at all unsure, make sure you hire a good editor to Anglicise your work and remove any potential errors or ambiguities.

2. Get your cover professionally designed

You'd be amazed at how much psychology goes into a good front cover. Pictures say a thousand words, after all.

It might be tempting to do this yourself, but we highly recommend employing the services of a professional designer - unless you happen to pretty handy with a digital pen yourself, of course.

3. Ensure your book is as good as possible

Is your style consistent? Has it been edited and proofread? Does every chapter have a purpose?

Don't let the book head out into the big, wide world until you're confident it's the best it can be.

4. Time manage your project

Create a spreadsheet of tasks and estimate how long each task should take together with a full timeline from start to finish.

This might sound like work, but remember - this book is a commercial endeavour, too.

5. Build your readership with social media

Create a fan page, join groups and forums and connect with all types of readers and especially with those who are fans of your particular genre.

Twitter, Facebook and even LinkedIn are perfect platforms for self-published authors.

6. Market yourself

This is possibly one of the biggest tasks of your publishing journey. Make phone calls, sell yourself, get interviews, set up a stall, be active across as many mediums as you can. Basically, become a bit of an annoyance!

7. Be creative with your campaign

Phone in radio shows on any subject and sign off with quick plug for your book, print stickers or sponsor a billboard!

Don't worry about shoehorning your book into any conversation, no matter who it's with; you never know who's listening.

8. Write more

Start your next book, keep your creativity and enthusiasm alive by writing whenever you can.

It doesn't matter what you write about - just get into the habit of doing it regularly, and your novel writing will benefit significantly. 

9. Blog and comment on other blogs

Reach out to find potential readers when and where you can through a variety of interactions, and keep interacting with them as possible.

Are you ready to take the self publishing world by storm? Keep the nine tips above by your side at all times!