Become a Published Writer: A Step-by-Step Guide to Getting Published

Do you want to become a published writer? No matter what your specific writing goals are, chances are that getting published is one of them. While getting published may seem challenging, the good news is that we have a special kit devoted to publishing for writers like you who aspire to have your work published someday.

For the month of June only, we are offering an exclusive kit, The Step-By-Step Guide to Getting Published. Available in limited quantities, this kit guides you through the traditional publishing process from start to finish. For maximum benefit, we recommend using these products in order.

The first step within the traditional publishing process is to do your research. This involves learning everything you can about finding a literary agent, knowing how to write a query letter, and how to protect yourself and your work. Chuck Sambuchino (editor of Guide to Literary Agents), teaches you to find a literary agent and what they look for in an online webinar, Everything You Need to Know About Getting an Agent: Queries, Synopses, Copyright, and More.

Once you know how to find an agent and write a query letter, your next task is to listen to Identify the Right Markets for Your Work, an instructional video wherein Robert Lee Brewer (editor of Writer’s Market) and Alice Pope (former editor of Children’s Writer’s & Illustrators Market) explain how to find the best markets for your writing.

When you read the Writer's Market Guide to Getting Published, you'll explore the business side of writing. Not only will you gain insight into trends within the publishing industry, but you'll also learn strategies for marketing and pricing your work and tips on negotiating a contract.

One of the most challenging steps within the publishing process is writing a query letter, which is why we recommend reading The Writer’s Digest Guide to Query Letters by Wendy-Burt Thomas. She gives great tips on how to write and format a query letter, and shares examples of query letters for articles, fiction novels, and nonfiction books.

Now you know about the importance of query letters, it's time to practice and write one of your own. If you need to, refer to The Writer’s Digest Guide to Query Letters. Once you have written a query letter, it's time to get a 2nd Draft Query Letter Critique. A professional editor will critique your one-page query letter and give you specific suggestions on what does and doesn't work. Take their suggestions, revise accordingly, and submit a flawless query letter to an agent or editor!

Now that you have a perfect query letter written, it's time to figure out what editors or agents you'd like to submit your work or ideas to. The best way to do this is to grab an copy of the 2012 Writer's Market. Inside the book, you'll find listings for literary agents, book publishers, consumer and trade magazines, and writing contests. Plus, you'll get access to bonus materials like the Writer's Yearbook and an exclusive online webinar on building an author platform.

Now that you've gotten a insight into the publishing process, it's time to submit your work. One of the best ways to do this, is with WritersMarket.com, which is why we've included the Complete WritersMarket.com 1-Year Subscription. With your subscription, you will get complete access to thousands of listings for publishers, magazines, and writing contests, up-to-date publishing news, and articles with advice from media pros. No matter what niche of writing you’re interested in, you’ll find the specific information you’re looking for.

One of the best ways to ensure your own success is to take your craft seriously and learn all you can about writing and publishing. If you equip yourself with The Step-By-Step Guide to Publishing, and take advantage of the essential information and knowledge from each product, you'll be on your way to achieving your goals and getting published!

Want more? Get More! - How to Publish a Book: 7 Tips From the Pros

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