Publishing a book requires meticulous attention to detail, whether you are self-publishing or working with a traditional publisher. After years of helping authors navigate the complex world of book publishing, I have compiled the most comprehensive pre-launch and post-launch checklists to ensure your book achieves professional standards and reaches its intended audience.
Why Book Launch Checklists Matter
A single overlooked detail can delay your book launch by weeks or result in negative reviews that permanently damage your book's reputation. Professional publishers use extensive checklists to maintain quality standards—and as a self-published author, you need the same level of rigor.
These checklists come from my comprehensive guide, LaTeX Book Publishing in 2026, which provides the complete technical framework for creating professionally typeset books. Combined with marketing strategies from The Author's Magnificent Seven, these resources give you everything needed for publishing success.
Pre-Launch Checklist: Essential Steps Before Publishing
1. Order Your Final Proof Copy
Never skip this crucial step. When you believe your book is complete, order a physical proof copy and conduct one final read-through. Digital screens hide errors that become glaringly obvious in print.
2. Review Your Index Thoroughly
Give your index a final review to catch any errors you might have missed. A well-crafted index significantly enhances your book's professional appearance and usability.
3. Test Your E-Book Across Multiple Devices
Review your EPUB file in Kindle Previewer and send test copies to various e-readers and smartphones. Different devices display content differently, and you must ensure consistent quality across all platforms.
4. Verify Publisher Page Information
Your publisher page must contain:
- Legally required notices
- Accurate copyright year and holder name
- ISBN information
- Publisher details
- Image and font attributions
Legal compliance is non-negotiable—incorrect information can result in your book being removed from sale.
5. Double-Check ISBN and Imprint Information
Ensure perfect alignment between:
- Information entered on publishing platforms
- Details used when purchasing your ISBN
- Content within your book
Any discrepancies will cause rejection during the review process.
6. Validate All Links and Footnotes
Test every link and footnote in your book. Broken links frustrate readers and generate negative reviews. For external URLs, consider whether they might change over time.
Pro Tip: Link to a central page on your website containing all relevant links. When URLs change, update your website rather than republishing your book.
7. Audit Your Bibliography
Verify that each bibliography entry is:
- Complete with all required information
- Properly cited throughout your text
- Contains valid ISBNs and URLs
8. Remove Prohibited Links
Publishing platforms prohibit:
- Web forms requesting customer information
- Links to competing e-book stores
- Affiliate links (in most cases)
Personal author websites are acceptable and encouraged.
9. Invest in Professional Cover Design
Platform-generated covers immediately signal amateur status. Your cover is your most important marketing tool—invest accordingly.
10. Verify Cover Dimensions
Ensure your cover template matches your PDF exactly:
- Correct page count
- Matching trim size
- Proper spine width
- Accurate title and author information
11. Optimize Image Resolution and Compression
Balance image quality with file size:
- Check each image at 100% zoom for pixelation
- Verify text within images remains legible
- Consider delivery costs for large e-book files
12. Establish Error Reporting Systems
Create mechanisms for readers to report issues:
- Dedicated email address for error reports
- Clear contact information in your book
- Process for addressing reported problems promptly
13. Optimize Categories and Keywords
Research competitive titles to identify:
- Effective category placements
- High-value search terms
- Keywords readers actually use
Poor categorization makes excellent content invisible.
14. Complete Your Author Profile
Your author profile serves as your professional identity:
- Include relevant credentials
- Highlight experience related to your subject matter
- Use professional photography
- Write compelling biographical information
15. Plan Your Follow-Up Book
Establish your brand by preparing:
- Title and outline for your next book
- Newsletter signup system
- Social media presence
- Content calendar for ongoing engagement
16. Develop Marketing Systems
Create templates for:
- Thank-you messages
- Review requests
- Social media posts
- Email sequences
17. Create Your Launch Marketing Plan
The initial launch period critically influences long-term performance on platform algorithms. Prepare comprehensive marketing strategies before your release date.
18. Synchronize Release Dates
When publishing on multiple platforms, ensure release dates align perfectly. Set dates in advance to avoid rushing between platforms on launch day.
Post-Launch Checklist: Critical Steps After Publishing
1. Verify Product Pages
Immediately check all platforms where your book appears:
- Correct formatting without HTML artifacts
- Proper display of special characters
- Accurate pricing in all currencies
- Complete product descriptions
2. Test All Product Links
Verify every link from:
- Your website
- Social media profiles
- Marketing materials
- Email signatures
Test from different devices and browsers for consistent functionality.
3. Check Preview Functionality
Ensure preview features work correctly:
- Appropriate pages included
- Optimal preview length
- No technical errors
Contact platform support if preview percentages need adjustment.
4. Monitor International Websites
If targeting global markets:
- Check product pages in multiple languages
- Verify appropriate currency conversions
- Ensure metadata displays correctly
5. Confirm Final Pricing
Verify pricing across all platforms:
- Matches your intended pricing strategy
- Accounts for currency conversions
- Maintains profitability targets
6. Order Your Author Copy
Purchase one copy through the standard customer process to verify:
- Payment processing works correctly
- Delivery functions properly
- Final product quality meets expectations
7. Monitor Initial Reviews
Early reviews often highlight overlooked issues:
- Set up review alerts
- Address legitimate concerns promptly
- Update your book if necessary
8. Verify Platform Program Enrollment
Confirm correct enrollment in:
- Kindle Unlimited
- Library distribution services
- Promotional programs
9. Check Exclusivity Compliance
If enrolled in exclusive programs:
- Verify no unauthorized distribution
- Remove content from competing platforms
- Document compliance measures
10. Test Platform-Specific Features
Features like Kindle X-Ray require separate testing and configuration.
11. Document Version History
Establish tracking systems for:
- Version dates
- Specific changes
- Customer support reference
12. Verify Tax Information
Review all tax forms and settings to ensure:
- Accurate tax status
- Proper jurisdiction selection
- Correct withholding rates
Transform Your Publishing Journey
These checklists represent just a fraction of the comprehensive guidance available in LaTeX Book Publishing in 2026. This technical guide provides:
- Complete LaTeX templates for professional typesetting
- Platform-specific formatting requirements
- Automated cover generation
- Advanced typography techniques
- Troubleshooting guides for common issues
For the marketing and business aspects of publishing, The Author's Magnificent Seven offers:
- Market research strategies
- Writing techniques for commercial success
- Comprehensive marketing plans
- Author platform development
- Revenue optimization strategies
Start Your Professional Publishing Journey Today
Do not let technical challenges or marketing confusion delay your publishing dreams. With the right tools and guidance, you can produce books that match or exceed traditional publishing standards while maintaining complete creative control.
Visit www.lode.de to access both comprehensive guides and transform your manuscript into a professionally published book that stands out in today's competitive market.
Remember: The difference between amateur and professional publishing lies in the details. These checklists ensure you miss nothing critical to your success.
About the Author: Clemens Lode has helped hundreds of authors navigate the complexities of self-publishing through his comprehensive guides and templates. His systematic approach combines technical excellence with practical marketing strategies to help authors achieve their publishing goals.
