I have seen quite a few posts recently from people wanting to publish a book and not knowing where to start.
My advice is always to start by writing the story. Most publishers want to know there is a completed manuscript waiting for them if they love what you submit to them.
The requirements for publishers vary depending on what sort of book you’re writing. Some want the whole manuscript, others want just the first few chapters, others want a book proposal. Whatever the requirements, having a full manuscript ready to go will mean that you’re ready once a publisher asks for it.
Once you’ve written your story, then edit it, so that whatever you submit is as good as it can possibly be. If the publishers only want the first five chapters, for example, then spend most of your time on those chapters. Once you’ve started submitting your manuscript, you can work on polishing the rest of the manuscript as it takes time for publishers to get back to you.
If you are wanting to self-publish, it still needs to be written and edited so it’s as good as it can possibly be.
If you are wanting to publish a book, the way you get started is to write your story.
If you would like some support in getting started, or any part of the publishing process, I am available to help you. Click here for details.