There’s a moment every writer reaches when the manuscript is finally done, and you sit there thinking, “Now what?”
Not in a dramatic way. Just… quietly.
Because finishing your book feels like crossing a finish line, but publishing it can feel like stepping into a whole new world. A world filled with confusing platforms, formatting questions, cover decisions, pricing stress, and one big fear:
“What if I publish it and nobody reads it?”
If you’ve been feeling that way, take a deep breath. You’re not behind, nor late. You’re simply at the part where most first-time authors need a clear plan.
And that’s exactly what this guide is here to give you.
In this blog, we’ll walk through B&N Self-Publishing step-by-step in a way that feels simple, realistic, and doable, without overwhelming you or making it sound like a sales pitch. Just a friendly roadmap for your next big move.
Why B&N Self-Publishing Feels Like a Smart Starting Point
When new authors hear “self-publishing,” they often imagine it’s either extremely complicated or extremely risky. But in reality, platforms today are built to make publishing more accessible than ever.
What makes B&N Self-Publishing especially interesting is that it connects you with a brand readers already trust, while still allowing you to stay in control of your work.
Here’s what many writers appreciate about it:
- It’s beginner-friendly and not overly technical
- Publish both eBooks and paperbacks
- Keep creative control over your book
- Reach readers who already shop at Barnes & Noble
- You don’t need a literary agent to get started
Most importantly, it gives you something every new author needs: a real publishing path that doesn’t feel impossible.
Step 1: Prepare Your Manuscript Like a Publisher Would
Before you upload anything, pause here. Because this step can save you from a lot of future stress.
Even if your story is brilliant, your reader’s experience depends on how clean and polished the book feels.
Here’s what to check before you move forward:
- Spelling and grammar
- Consistency in names, places, timelines, and formatting
- Chapter spacing and readable structure
- A clear ending that feels complete
Also, it helps to have at least one person read it before publishing. Not someone who will only say “It’s amazing!”, but someone who will tell you where they got confused or bored.
Because when your book is out in the world, you won’t get a second first impression.
Step 2: Decide Your Book Format (eBook, Paperback, or Both)
One of the best things about Barnes and Noble Self-Publishing is that you can choose what works best for your goals.
Ask yourself: How do I want people to read my book?
Common options include:
- eBook (digital readers, quick downloads, global reach)
- Paperback (physical feel, gifting, signings, collectors)
- Both (the best of both worlds, if you’re ready)
If you’re a first-time author, publishing both can feel exciting, but starting with one format is totally okay, too.
What matters most is that you start in a way that feels manageable.
Step 3: Create Your B&N Press Account
To publish using B&N Self-Publishing, you’ll typically use the B&N Press platform (Barnes & Noble’s self-publishing system).
Once you create an account, you’ll be able to:
- Upload your manuscript
- Add book details
- Set pricing
- Publish your book
- Track sales and performance
This is where your book officially becomes a real product. And yes, that’s a big moment.
Step 4: Add Book Details That Make Readers Click
Here’s something most authors don’t realize right away:
Publishing isn’t just uploading a file; it’s also presenting your book in a way readers understand instantly.
Your metadata matters. A lot.
Pay attention to:
- Book title (clear, memorable, easy to search)
- Subtitle (especially for nonfiction)
- Author name (consistent across platforms)
- Book description (short, emotional, and specific)
- Keywords and categories
A good description doesn’t need hype. It just needs clarity and emotion.
Instead of “This book will change your life,” try: “This book is for anyone who feels stuck, but still wants to believe in something better.”
That’s how you connect with a real reader.
Step 5: Upload Your Manuscript the Right Way
Once your manuscript is ready, you’ll upload it to B&N Self-Publishing and preview how it looks.
This step matters because formatting issues can sneak in even when the writing is perfect.
Things to double-check in preview mode:
- Chapter headings aren’t broken
- Paragraphs aren’t oddly spaced
- Page numbers (for print) look correct
- No random blank pages appear
- The table of contents works (for eBooks)
If you notice something looks off, don’t panic. This happens to almost everyone the first time. Fixing formatting is part of the process, not a sign you failed.
Step 6: Design a Cover That Matches Your Genre
People really do judge books by their covers. Not because they’re shallow, but because covers communicate what kind of experience the reader is about to have.
A romance cover feels different from a business book cover.
A thriller cover feels different from a memoir.
Your goal is simple:
Make the cover feel familiar enough that readers trust it, but unique enough that they remember it.
A strong cover usually has:
- A clear title (easy to read even as a small thumbnail)
- Strong contrast and clean typography
- A genre-appropriate design style
- A professional overall look
If you’re using Barnes and Noble Book Publishing tools, you may find built-in options, but many authors also use custom designs to stand out.
Either way, your cover should make your reader feel:
“This is for me.”
Step 7: Set Pricing Without Overthinking It
Pricing can feel emotional because it forces you to assign a number to something you worked so hard on.
But try to see pricing as a strategy, not a judgment of your worth.
When setting a price through B&N Self-Publishing, consider:
- Your genre’s typical pricing
- Your book length
- Whether you want fast readership or higher royalties
- Whether it’s Book 1 in a series
Some authors price lower at first to build momentum. Others price higher to reflect premium value. Both approaches can work; it depends on your goals.
Step 8: Publish, Then Breathe
When you hit publish, it can feel surreal, like your book is suddenly no longer “yours” alone. It becomes something real. Something searchable. Something discoverable. And yes, it might feel scary. But it’s also one of the bravest things you can do as a writer.
After publishing through Barnes and Noble Self-Publishing, you’ll want to:
- Save your book link
- Share it with your first circle (friends, readers, community)
- Ask for honest reviews
- Track performance slowly (don’t obsess daily)
Progress in publishing is often quiet at first. Then it builds.
Step 9: Use Simple Promotion That Still Feels Like You
Promotion doesn’t have to feel pushy or salesy. It can feel like storytelling.
You’re not forcing anyone to buy. You’re simply letting the right readers know your book exists.
Here are gentle, authentic ways to promote:
- Share your writing journey on social media
- Post a quote from your book with a short personal story
- Offer a behind-the-scenes post: “Why I wrote this book.”
- Ask readers to leave reviews (politely and honestly)
- Create a simple author page and email list
If you’re using tools provided by Barnes and Noble Book Publishing, explore them slowly and choose what fits your comfort level.
The best marketing is the kind you can do consistently without burning out.
Common Mistakes New Authors Should Avoid
Even with a clear platform like B&N Self-Publishing, there are a few mistakes that can hold authors back.
Try to avoid:
- Publishing without proofreading
- Uploading without previewing formatting
- Using a cover that doesn’t match your genre
- Writing a vague or overly dramatic description
- Expecting instant results after launch
Instead, focus on steady improvement. Publishing is a long game, and you’re allowed to grow into it.
FAQs
How much royalty do authors earn with B&N Self-Publishing?
Royalty rates can vary depending on whether you publish an eBook or a print book, and your pricing choices. The best approach is to review the royalty terms inside your dashboard before publishing, so you understand exactly what you’ll earn per sale.
Does Barnes and Noble Book Publishing offer marketing or promotional tools for self-published authors?
Yes, it does have promotion opportunities based on your format and set up of the books. Certain tools are useful in terms of visibility and discoverability, but results are usually better when you are combining platform tools with regular author-decentralized marketing.
Can I publish a paperback and an eBook using Barnes and Noble Self-Publishing?
Yes, the choice of publication can be between either format or both. Most writers begin with a single format and then proceed to expand when they are sure they can do it.
Do I need an ISBN to publish my book?
It is based on how you want your books to be published, and what you prefer to do with the ISBNs or what the platform offers. Assuming that ownership and flexibility in distribution are important, do a little research on the options available in terms of the ISBN before you launch your product.
How long does it take for a book to go live after publishing?
The time of publication may change; however, in most instances, books become available when they have been reviewed and processed.