Choosing a publisher is one of the most important decisions an author makes. Use these ten questions to compare publishers fairly and protect your work.

1. What books have you already published?

Ask for the catalogue and look at the covers, the printing and the editing. A publisher’s earlier books show what yours will look like.

2. Is my subject a good fit for your list?

A publisher with experience in your field knows the readers, the libraries and the exams or courses your book serves.

3. Which publishing route are you offering?

Is it traditional, author-funded or a mix? Get this stated clearly in writing.

4. What exactly is included, and what costs extra?

List the services: evaluation, editing, proofreading, cover design, typesetting, ISBN support, printing. Ask what is not included, and what any additional rounds of changes cost.

5. Who owns the rights, and for how long?

Read the agreement carefully. Understand the rights you give, the duration, and how the agreement can end.

6. How and where will the book be sold?

Will it be listed online? On the publisher’s website? In libraries? Ask for the places and the way orders are handled.

7. Will I see a proof before printing?

You should always approve a final proof. Mistakes are far cheaper to fix before the print run.

8. What is the timeline?

Ask for a written schedule for each stage and who is responsible for delays.

9. How will payments and royalties be reported?

If royalties apply, ask how often sales are reported and how you will be paid.

10. Can I speak to an author you have published?

Existing authors can tell you honestly how the process worked.

Warning signs

  • Guaranteed sales or guaranteed bestseller status.
  • Pressure to pay quickly with no written terms.
  • No visible catalogue or contact details.

A transparent publisher answers these questions without hesitation.

Publish with Gyanavi Publishers

Gyanavi Publishers invites professors, researchers, teachers and first-time authors to submit manuscripts. Selected manuscripts may be considered under mutually agreed publishing and commercial terms, and author-funded publishing support is also available. Services include manuscript evaluation, editing and proofreading, cover design, interior formatting and typesetting, ISBN and publication assistance, and printing. See the books published by Gyanavi Publishers to judge the quality of our work, then write to [email protected] with your title, subject and a short summary. Publication is subject to review and is never guaranteed.