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Publishing…It’s Not So Scary!


Meghan Peterman
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May 28, 2024
  
 

Have you ever thought about publishing a textbook?

 

What’s the first thought that comes to you, and how does it make you feel?

 

There’s a reason the title of this post is, “It’s not SO scary.” Putting your life’s work ‘out there’ does take a measure of courage. However, the process isn’t as challenging as you might think. 

 

You’re an academic, after all. Time after time, you’ve tackled research projects, dissertations, etc. by breaking them into manageable chunks. Textbook publishing is similar. 

 

Since seeing is believing, we’re taking you behind the scenes to show you that publishing a textbook is achievable, and how we help you through the process. 


 

Debunking Misconceptions

 

“I don’t have time.”

 

Today’s instructors are busier than ever before. With everything already on your plate, it’s understandable that publishing a textbook can sound overwhelming, at least initially. 

 

We like to take a low-hanging-fruit approach. Publishing is often as simple as formalizing what you’re already doing. Start by simply taping your lectures. Chances are, you already have all the content you need. 

 

From there, set aside an hour or two each week to organize your lecture material. Then, take that content and add discussion questions, provide resources, etc. You can move mountains in a relatively short amount of time. 


 

“I don’t have the expertise.” 

 

The phrase “imposter syndrome” is trending across social media for a reason. It’s a legitimate barrier to entry for many would-be authors. 

 

Here’s a reassuring statistic: over 80% of the professors we work with are first-time authors. 

 

If you ever need help with permissions, writer’s block, or deadline setting, we have a diverse team to assist you. There are no silly questions.

 

In truth, it doesn’t matter whether you’re a veteran author or a first-timer; the approach is the same. Since each project is unique, each project requires a unique writing process. We’ll work with you to figure out what that looks like and create an achievable path forward. 


 

“My research scope is limited…I don’t know if I could write a comprehensive textbook.”

 

If you don’t envision yourself penning an entire text, you don’t have to. We have a library of classroom-tested material you can draw from to fill in any content gaps. 

 

Thus, even if your expertise is niche, we can still connect you with the resources you need to create or customize a full textbook. 

 


The Publishing Process

 

When we sign a new author, the first thing we do is meet with them. We want to get on the same page as soon as possible about current pain points, classroom vision, etc. This helps us figure out how we can help you transform your students’ learning experience through your authorship.

 

From that point, you work with one of our Publishing Specialists to develop a writing plan, brainstorm a cover design, decide on pedagogical elements, and work towards periodic writing deadlines. 

 

If life happens and your deadlines need adjustment, we can work together on establishing a new timeline. 

 

In addition, we’re always tracking how today’s students learn best. We can help you figure out if interactive technology components might be right for your publication, helping students absorb, retain, and engage with the material.

 

Ultimately, we provide guidance for the entire process, giving you both the freedom and structure you need to thrive as an author. 

 


Conclusion (Actually, a Pep-Talk)

 

We’ve seen an author’s students show up on day one of class and realize that the author of their textbook is standing in front of them. It’s an indescribable experience. 

 

There’s a book in everybody. If you’ve ever considered authoring, our advice is to try it! Countless times, we’ve seen first-time authors surprise themselves. 

 

It’s true: publishing isn’t easy. But It isn’t as terrifying as you may have thought. 

 

Looking for More? Check Out the Podcast!

In this episode, Director of Publishing Partnerships, Paul Carty, joins us to demystify academic publishing. While it may be nerve-wracking to put your life’s work on display, the publishing process itself doesn’t have to be frightening. Peek behind the publishing curtain as we discuss easy ways to get started writing a textbook, first-time-author tips, ways to overcome writing challenges, and more. We also discuss ways that you can maximize the impact of your publication and create powerful learning materials for your students. 

Listen HERE