6 Essential Online Tools Every Self-Publisher Needs to Know About

Gaurav Rathore
Gaurav Rathore

Tech Writer

His write-ups blend creativity, personal experience, and tailored technical advice, meeting reader needs effectively.

5 min read



“The best self-promotion is your next book. And the book after that and after that …”

— Bella Andre (American Author)

The self-publishing initiative continues to grow and provide thrilling opportunities for authors to narrate their stories globally. 

Unlike other methods, this approach enables writers to have total control over their work without any gatekeepers, which, as a result, also leads to a higher cut in their sales. 

Studying these figures, it is not very surprising to know that there has been a 264% increase in self-publishing over the past five years, and the numbers still seem to increase (Zorba Books, 2025).

However, to stay relevant in this fast-paced world, writers need to have the right online tools in hand for smoother writing, efficient production, and wider audience engagement.

To assist you in this journey, this article has presented the advanced resources available to authors looking for self-publishing.

All-in-one Software

All-in-one software is one of the best tools you can use if you want to self-publish a book. 

This is because it includes all of the features mentioned in this post, from manuscript formatting to sales dashboards. 

The experts from spines.com make clear that all-in-one platforms allow you to transform manuscripts into books and then put them straight into the hands of readers. 

Hence, when considering the purchase of such software, it is necessary to do some research to find the best program to suit your needs. 

It can also be helpful to read compatibility reviews for multi-purpose platforms, and if previous users have positive things to say about it, chances are you will also benefit from the platform. 

Make sure you only take reviews published on Google Review or Trustpilot seriously, as ones hosted on the sites of businesses tend more often than not to be biased. 

The data below demonstrates how more people are now self-publishing their books or other media and making more money than ever before.

Self-Publishing Statistics

Manuscript Formatting

Manuscript formatting is one of the most tedious parts of processing the publishing operation. 

If you do it yourself, it can take days or even weeks, depending on the size of your manuscript

All-in-one software does have the advantage of including formatting texts as part of the package. 

However, if you are not planning to forgo this tool and instead look to do everything manually, you are going to need a standalone manuscript formatting processor. 

This technology will allow you to sort out punctuation and text errors, as well as format each chapter (and your book’s index).

Text Editing

Text editing software is necessary if you are thinking of or wanting to self-publish a book. 

Editing is necessary because your goal in self-publishing is to ensure that there are no misspelled words or grammatical errors. 

The chances of serious errors rise when people rush through editing, and that is usually the biggest blunder that will get them into trouble.

You can also hire a proofreader to check your text for mistakes since proofreading is pivotal.

proofreader

Proofreading

You will need to download a proofreading platform, and this is so that you can make sure there aren’t any serious issues with your manuscript before publishing. 

The last thing you want to do is let your work out into the world, however, if it is not thoroughly gone through and not even signed off on by a proofreader, don’t release it. 

Self-production comes with its costs, and proofreading can also be very expensive but don’t worry, as some have you with the best budget for their services. 

Always read a proofreader’s portfolio before hiring them so you can be sure they are the right person for your manuscript. 

Do You Know?
The number of self-published books has increased,d and 300 million are now sold each year.

Distribution Platform

Without a distribution channel, getting your manuscript ready for printing is an impossible task, therefore, having one such platform at your disposal is pivotal.

A simple search of the internet can bring up multiple platforms, but understanding these sites comes with a caveat: some of them are simply better than others. 

Your main priority should be on finding the right distribution platform for you, and make sure to come up with a budget at the beginning of your self-publishing journey.

This is to ensure that you do not end up spending more than you can afford on software. 

Sales Dashboard

A sales dashboard is another tool you will need so that you can keep a close eye on your book’s deals. 

These are like the other programs here, widely available, and it is worth noting, however, that you don’t necessarily need to buy one on its own. 

An all-in-one platform will contain all of the features of the programs mentioned here, plus more. 

Having all of your publishing needs centralized in a particular place can make the entire process a lot easier. 

Above all, you won’t be required to juggle using an assortment of different platforms, which just complicates the process. 

Using all-in-one platforms can certainly facilitate the process of writing your first to third books.

Lastly, you must make sure you read the reviews of software providers before you work with them so you can be sure their products are the right choice for you.




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