Entering the publishing world can feel overwhelming with all the industry-specific jargon. To help you navigate this space, we’ve compiled a list of 100 essential terms every author should know. This guide will demystify the language of publishing, making it easier for you to understand the process and communicate effectively with industry professionals.

100 Common Terms Every Author Should Know

1. Advance

An advance is a payment made to an author before their book is published. It’s typically paid in installments and deducted from the author’s future royalties. If the book sells enough copies to “earn out” the advance, the author will then begin receiving royalties on additional sales.

2. Agent

A literary agent represents authors, negotiating contracts with publishers, and securing the best possible deals. Agents also help authors polish their manuscripts and guide them through the publishing process. Most traditional publishers prefer to work with agents, as they act as gatekeepers.

3. ARC (Advanced Reader Copy)

An ARC is a pre-publication version of a book, typically distributed to reviewers and influencers to generate buzz before the official release. ARCs are not the final version and may contain errors or changes that will be corrected in the final printed edition.

4. Backlist

A publisher’s backlist refers to previously published books that are still available for sale, though not actively promoted. These books have often proven their market value over time and can generate consistent sales without the need for fresh marketing efforts.

5. Beta Reader

Beta readers review a manuscript before it’s officially published, providing feedback on the story, characters, pacing, and overall readability. They help the author refine the book’s content and catch errors or inconsistencies that might not have been noticed.

6. Blurb

A blurb is a short description or summary of a book, usually found on the back cover or inside dust jacket. It aims to intrigue readers and give them a brief idea of the plot or subject matter, often including endorsements from other authors or publications.

7. Book Proposal

A book proposal is a document sent to potential publishers, outlining the concept, target audience, and marketability of a book. Nonfiction authors commonly use proposals to secure a publishing deal before the book is fully written, while fiction authors generally submit complete manuscripts.

8. Copyeditor

A copyeditor ensures that a manuscript is free of grammatical, punctuation, and spelling errors. They also check for consistency in style, voice, and formatting. Copyeditors do not usually make significant changes to content, focusing instead on readability and technical accuracy.

9. Copyright

Copyright protects an author’s work from being reproduced or distributed without permission. Once an author creates an original work, they automatically own the copyright, but formal registration offers additional legal benefits and protection.

10. Developmental Editing

Developmental editing involves evaluating a manuscript’s structure, plot, and character development. A developmental editor provides detailed feedback to help the author enhance the overall narrative, pacing, and thematic elements, often leading to major revisions.

11. Distributor

A distributor is responsible for getting books from publishers to retailers, such as bookstores, libraries, or online platforms. Major distributors work with both large and independent publishers, ensuring books reach the intended audience efficiently.

12. E-book

An e-book is a digital version of a book that can be read on electronic devices such as e-readers, tablets, or computers. E-books offer authors and publishers a way to distribute their works widely without the costs of physical printing.

13. Galley

A galley is a pre-publication version of a book, similar to an ARC but more focused on proofreading. It’s distributed to reviewers and industry professionals for final checks before the book is printed and officially released.

14. Hardcover

A hardcover is a type of book binding with a rigid protective cover. Hardcovers are typically more durable than paperbacks and are often used for first editions or special releases. They are generally more expensive than paperbacks due to the materials and production costs.

15. ISBN (International Standard Book Number)

An ISBN is a unique numerical identifier assigned to every published book. It allows publishers, booksellers, and libraries to catalog and track books efficiently. Each format (hardcover, paperback, e-book) of a book has its own ISBN.

16. Imprint

An imprint is a brand or division of a larger publishing company. Imprints often specialize in a particular genre or market, allowing a publisher to diversify its offerings under different brand names. For example, Penguin Random House has multiple imprints for various types of books.

17. KDP (Kindle Direct Publishing)

KDP is Amazon’s self-publishing platform, allowing authors to publish and sell their e-books and paperbacks on Amazon’s marketplace. It’s a popular option for independent authors due to its ease of use and wide reach.

18. Literary Fiction

Literary fiction focuses on the depth of characters, themes, and the human condition, often prioritizing style and nuance over plot. It contrasts with genre fiction, which includes categories like mystery, science fiction, or romance, typically with a stronger emphasis on plot-driven narratives.

19. Manuscript

A manuscript is the original version of a book submitted by an author to an agent, editor, or publisher. It’s typically a completed draft, though the term can also apply to unfinished works or different stages of the writing process before publication.

20. Mass Market Paperback

Mass market paperbacks are small, inexpensive, and widely distributed books. They are often sold in non-bookstore venues such as supermarkets or airports. Unlike trade paperbacks, mass market books are printed on cheaper paper and designed for mass production.

21. Middle Grade

Middle grade refers to books aimed at children between the ages of 8 and 12. These books typically focus on characters of a similar age, with themes and language appropriate for younger readers. They are distinct from young adult (YA) fiction, which targets older teens.

22. Net Galley

Net Galley is an online service that allows publishers and authors to distribute digital advance copies (e-books) to reviewers, bloggers, librarians, and booksellers. It’s a tool for generating early reviews and gaining exposure before a book’s official release.

23. Option Clause

An option clause in a publishing contract gives the publisher the right to review the author’s next work before it’s offered to other publishers. This clause often specifies the time frame and genre of the next book, ensuring the publisher has first consideration for future projects.

24. Out of Print

When a book is out of print, it means the publisher is no longer producing or distributing it. The book may still be available through second-hand sellers or libraries, but new copies are no longer being made. Authors may seek to regain rights for out-of-print books.

25. Pantser

A “pantser” is an author who writes “by the seat of their pants,” without a detailed outline or plan. These authors often develop their stories organically, letting characters and plot points evolve as they write, in contrast to “plotters” who meticulously outline their books beforehand.

26. Print on Demand (POD)

Print on demand is a publishing model where books are printed as orders come in, rather than in large batches. This reduces upfront costs for publishers and allows authors to keep books available indefinitely, without needing to store large inventories.

27. Proofreader

A proofreader reviews a book’s final draft for typographical errors, grammatical mistakes, and inconsistencies in punctuation. Unlike a copyeditor, who may suggest stylistic changes, a proofreader focuses strictly on the technical aspects of the text.

28. Query Letter

A query letter is a formal letter that an author sends to literary agents or publishers to pitch their manuscript. It includes a brief synopsis of the book, the author’s bio, and reasons why the book is a good fit for the recipient. Query letters are crucial for traditional publishing.

29. Royalty

Royalties are the percentage of sales that an author earns from each copy of their book sold. The royalty rate is typically outlined in the publishing contract, and royalties may vary depending on the format of the book (e.g., e-book, hardcover, audiobook).

30. Self-Publishing

Self-publishing refers to the process where authors publish their books independently, without going through a traditional publishing house. Platforms like Amazon KDP and IngramSpark allow authors to control every aspect of the process, from editing to cover design, distribution, and marketing.

31. Slush Pile

The slush pile is a collection of unsolicited manuscripts that publishers or literary agents receive. These submissions have not been requested, and they often receive less attention unless something about the manuscript stands out, leading to further consideration.

32. Small Press

A small press is an independent publisher that operates on a smaller scale than major publishing houses. Small presses often focus on niche markets or experimental work, offering more creative freedom but with less distribution power than larger companies.

33. Synopsis

A synopsis is a brief summary of a book’s plot, characters, and main themes, often required by agents and publishers during the submission process. It should outline the beginning, middle, and end of the story, giving a clear sense of how the plot unfolds and resolves.

34. Trade Paperback

A trade paperback is a higher-quality paperback book, larger and printed on better paper than a mass market paperback. These books are often the format released after a hardcover edition, offering a more affordable option while still maintaining a professional appearance.

35. Vanity Press

A vanity press is a publishing company that requires authors to pay for the publication of their books. Unlike traditional publishers, who bear the costs of editing, printing, and marketing, vanity presses charge authors upfront, making their business model controversial within the industry.

36. Wholesaler

A wholesaler buys books in bulk from publishers and resells them to retailers, such as bookstores and libraries. Wholesalers typically offer discounts to retailers, acting as an intermediary between publishers and sellers to facilitate large-scale book distribution.

37. Word Count

Word count refers to the total number of words in a manuscript. Different genres have standard word count ranges; for example, a typical novel might range between 70,000 to 90,000 words, while novellas or children’s books tend to have significantly lower word counts.

38. Work for Hire

In a work-for-hire agreement, the author does not retain the copyright to their work. Instead, the hiring party, such as a company or publisher, owns the rights. This type of agreement is common in ghostwriting, textbook creation, or writing for corporate clients.

39. Young Adult (YA)

Young adult (YA) fiction targets readers aged 12 to 18 and often features protagonists in that age range. YA books can span many genres, but common themes include identity, friendship, and coming-of-age experiences. The YA market has grown significantly over the past decade.

40. Pre-Order

A pre-order is when a book is available for purchase before its official release date. Pre-orders can help generate buzz and increase initial sales, as they contribute to the book’s sales ranking once it is released, giving the author a strong launch.

41. Acknowledgments

The acknowledgments section of a book is where the author thanks individuals or organizations who helped during the creation process. This can include editors, agents, family members, beta readers, or others who supported the author’s journey.

42. Advance Review Copy (ARC)

An Advance Review Copy (ARC) is a pre-release version of a book sent to reviewers, bloggers, and influencers to generate early feedback and reviews. ARCs may differ slightly from the final published version, but they are essential for early promotion.

43. Anthology

An anthology is a collection of short stories, essays, poems, or other works, often centered around a specific theme or genre. It can feature multiple authors, or sometimes a single author’s works, and is often used in literary or academic settings.

44. Appendix

An appendix in a book provides additional information that complements the main text, such as references, charts, or detailed explanations. It’s commonly found in nonfiction books where supplementary data is useful for the reader’s deeper understanding.

45. Author Bio

An author bio is a short summary of the author’s background, typically included in the back matter of the book or on the author’s website. It highlights their credentials, previous works, and sometimes personal information that’s relevant to their writing.

46. Back Matter

Back matter refers to the sections of a book that appear after the main content, including the glossary, index, acknowledgments, bibliography, and appendices. It offers additional resources or information relevant to the book’s subject.

47. Blurb

A blurb is a brief, promotional description of a book that aims to catch the reader’s attention. It’s usually found on the back cover or dust jacket of a book and may include endorsements from other authors or critics.

48. Boilerplate

In publishing, boilerplate refers to standard language in contracts that is often used without changes. It typically includes clauses related to legal terms, copyright, and royalties. Authors and agents often negotiate over non-boilerplate sections of the contract.

49. Book Launch

A book launch is the event or campaign surrounding the official release of a book. It often includes promotional activities like readings, signings, social media campaigns, or blog tours to generate excitement and sales momentum.

50. Copyright Page

The copyright page is typically located at the beginning of a book and contains important legal information, including the book’s copyright notice, publication date, ISBN, and any disclaimers. It’s crucial for protecting the author’s and publisher’s rights.

51. Debut Novel

A debut novel is the first full-length book published by an author. It’s often seen as a significant milestone in a writer’s career, and debut novels sometimes garner special attention from publishers and reviewers.

52. Distribution

Distribution refers to the process of making a book available for sale across different channels. This can include bookstores, online retailers, libraries, and other outlets. Effective distribution is essential for ensuring a book reaches its intended audience.

53. Dummy Copy

A dummy copy is a rough mock-up of a book used primarily in the design and layout stage. It helps authors, editors, and designers visualize how the final book will look, including placement of text, images, and chapter breaks.

54. Endpapers

Endpapers are the sheets of paper attached to the inside covers of a hardcover book. They can be plain, colored, or decorated, and they serve both a functional and aesthetic purpose. Endpapers often reflect the theme or tone of the book.

55. Errata

Errata are corrections to a book after it has been published, often listed on a separate sheet inserted into the book. These corrections address mistakes or inaccuracies found after printing and are common in nonfiction works where accuracy is crucial.

56. Front Matter

Front matter consists of the pages at the beginning of a book before the main text. This includes the title page, copyright page, dedication, foreword, and preface. Front matter sets the stage for the content that follows and may include acknowledgments.

57. Genre Fiction

Genre fiction refers to books written in specific categories, such as mystery, romance, fantasy, or science fiction. These books often follow particular conventions or formulas, making them distinct from literary fiction, which focuses more on style and character development.

58. Ghostwriter

A ghostwriter is hired to write a book or other content on behalf of someone else, often without receiving public credit. Celebrities, executives, and politicians frequently use ghostwriters for their autobiographies or other works.

59. Hybrid Publisher

A hybrid publisher offers a middle ground between traditional publishing and self-publishing. Authors typically pay for some of the publishing services, like editing or marketing, while the publisher provides expertise and distribution, often in exchange for a share of royalties.

60. Indie Author

An indie author is a writer who self-publishes their work, often retaining complete control over the publishing process, from editing to cover design and marketing. Independent authors use platforms like Amazon KDP or IngramSpark to reach readers directly.

61. Index

An index is a list of topics, terms, and names used in a book, along with the pages on which they appear. It’s commonly found in nonfiction books to help readers locate specific information easily.

62. Line Editing

Line editing involves reviewing a manuscript for style, tone, and clarity at the sentence and paragraph level. It focuses on improving readability, flow, and consistency without changing the overall structure or content of the book.

63. Manuscript Evaluation

A manuscript evaluation is a service provided by editors or agents to give feedback on a book’s potential before it’s fully polished. This assessment focuses on the strengths and weaknesses of the plot, characters, and writing style.

64. National Book Award

The National Book Award is one of the most prestigious literary awards in the United States, given annually in several categories including fiction, nonfiction, poetry, and young people’s literature. Winning or being nominated can significantly boost an author’s visibility and credibility.

65. Novella

A novella is a work of fiction that is longer than a short story but shorter than a novel, typically between 20,000 and 50,000 words. It often focuses on a single narrative or character arc and is less complex than a full-length novel.

66. Offset Printing

Offset printing is a traditional method used for printing large quantities of books. It involves transferring ink from a plate to a rubber sheet, then to the printing surface. It’s cost-effective for large print runs, but not for small batches.

67. Pen Name

A pen name, or pseudonym, is a fictitious name an author uses instead of their real name. Authors may use pen names for privacy, to write in different genres without confusing readers, or to create a more marketable identity.

68. Print Run

A print run refers to the number of copies of a book printed at one time. Larger print runs are common for bestselling authors or anticipated releases, while smaller print runs might be used for niche markets or less-known authors.

69. Public Domain

Books in the public domain are not protected by copyright, meaning they can be freely used, adapted, or reproduced by anyone. Works enter the public domain after a certain period, depending on the laws in the country of publication.

70. Query Tracker

Query Tracker is an online tool used by authors to track the status of their submissions to literary agents and publishers. It helps writers manage queries, monitor responses, and keep an organized record of interactions with potential representatives.

71. Remaindered

A book is remaindered when the publisher sells off excess copies at a significantly reduced price. This usually happens when sales have slowed down, and retailers want to clear inventory. Remaindered books are often sold in bargain bins or discount stores.

72. Retainer

A retainer is a fee paid upfront to secure the services of a professional, such as a literary agent, editor, or publicist. This fee ensures their availability and is common in long-term or ongoing projects where continued service is needed.

73. Revisions

Revisions refer to changes an author makes to a manuscript based on feedback from an agent, editor, or beta readers. Revisions can be minor, like tweaking sentences, or major, like restructuring chapters or altering the plot.

74. Royalties Statement

A royalties statement is a detailed report provided by the publisher to the author that outlines the number of books sold, revenue generated, and the author’s earnings. It shows how much the author will receive in royalties for a specific period.

75. Serial Rights

Serial rights refer to the right to publish excerpts from a book in magazines, newspapers, or online publications, usually before the book is officially released. This is a common way to build interest in an upcoming book and drive early sales.

76. Sensitivity Reader

A sensitivity reader reviews manuscripts for potentially problematic content related to race, gender, culture, or other sensitive topics. They help ensure that the portrayal of certain characters or themes is respectful and accurate, minimizing the risk of offensive material.

77. Shortlist

A shortlist is a final selection of books or authors being considered for a prize or award. Making it to a shortlist can boost an author’s credibility and exposure, even if they do not win the final prize.

78. Slush Pile Reader

A slush pile reader is someone who reviews unsolicited submissions (the “slush pile”) for a publisher or literary agent. These readers help filter out manuscripts, forwarding promising ones to higher-level editors or agents for further consideration.

79. Spine

The spine is the edge of a book where the pages are bound together, and it typically displays the book’s title, author, and publisher. The spine is crucial for book identification, especially in bookstores and libraries where books are often shelved spine-out.

80. Subsidy Publisher

A subsidy publisher shares the cost of publishing a book with the author, as opposed to a vanity press where the author pays all costs. In this model, the publisher offers some services like editing and distribution but charges the author for part of the production.

81. Submissions Guidelines

Submission guidelines are rules set by publishers, literary agents, or magazines outlining how authors should submit their manuscripts. These guidelines include formatting instructions, word count limits, and other details to help streamline the review process.

82. Subsidiary Rights

Subsidiary rights refer to the rights to sell a book’s content in different formats or markets, such as film adaptations, translations, audiobooks, or merchandise. Publishers often handle these rights to maximize the book’s reach across various platforms.

83. Synopsis

A synopsis is a concise summary of a book’s plot, characters, and key themes. Authors usually submit a synopsis along with a query letter when approaching agents or publishers. It outlines the complete story arc, including the ending, in a brief and compelling way.

84. Trade Book

A trade book is a general-interest book sold through traditional retail channels like bookstores. Unlike textbooks or technical manuals, trade books are intended for the general public and include fiction, nonfiction, biographies, and memoirs.

85. Traditional Publishing

Traditional publishing involves an author signing a contract with a publishing house, which handles the production, distribution, and marketing of the book. In exchange, the publisher retains a percentage of the profits, and the author receives royalties.

86. Trim Size

Trim size refers to the dimensions of a book after it has been printed and cut. Common trim sizes include 6” x 9” for trade paperbacks or 5.5” x 8.5” for mass market paperbacks. Trim size affects both the book’s cost and market positioning.

87. Unsolicited Manuscript

An unsolicited manuscript is a book submitted to a publisher or literary agent without a prior request. These manuscripts typically go into the slush pile and are reviewed at the discretion of the recipient, often receiving lower priority than solicited submissions.

88. Upmarket Fiction

Upmarket fiction blends literary and commercial elements, offering both strong writing and mass appeal. These books tend to have complex characters and themes but are also highly readable and accessible, making them suitable for both book clubs and the mainstream market.

89. Vanity Press

A vanity press is a publisher that charges authors to publish their work, rather than paying the author. Vanity presses are often criticized for taking advantage of authors, as they require the author to cover all costs associated with editing, printing, and distribution.

90. World Rights

World rights give a publisher the exclusive right to sell a book in all markets around the world, in all languages and formats. If an author sells only domestic rights, they retain the ability to negotiate international deals separately.

91. Work-in-Progress (WIP)

A work-in-progress (WIP) refers to a book or manuscript that the author is still developing and has not yet completed. Writers often refer to their current project as their WIP, especially when discussing their drafting and revision processes.

92. Writer’s Block

Writer’s block is the creative condition in which an author is unable to produce new writing. It can stem from various causes, such as stress, perfectionism, or lack of inspiration. Many writers develop strategies to overcome writer’s block and rekindle their creative flow.

93. Book Tour

A book tour is a series of promotional events organized for an author to promote a new release. The tour often includes book signings, readings, interviews, and discussions, allowing authors to engage directly with readers and media.

94. Blurred Genre

Blurred genre refers to books that combine elements of different genres, making them difficult to categorize. For example, a novel may blend elements of historical fiction and fantasy. These hybrid works can appeal to a broader audience but may be harder to market.

95. Typesetting

Typesetting is the process of arranging text on a page, ensuring the layout is professional and visually appealing. It involves selecting fonts, adjusting line spacing, and placing illustrations or images. Proper typesetting ensures a book is easy to read and aesthetically pleasing.

96. Pre-Sales

Pre-sales refer to the selling of a book before it is officially released. Pre-sales help generate interest and provide an early indication of how well a book might perform. Pre-orders are often counted towards the first week of sales, impacting the book’s initial ranking.

97. Gutter

The gutter is the inner margin of a book, where the pages are bound together. It’s the space between the text and the spine, allowing for ease of reading without words disappearing into the fold. Proper gutter spacing is important for readability.

98. Proof

A proof is a final version of a book sent to the author or editor for review before printing. This proof allows for a last check of the book’s content, layout, and format to ensure there are no errors or issues that need correction before mass printing.

99. Query

A query is a formal letter or email that an author sends to literary agents or publishers to pitch their book. It includes a brief summary of the work, details about the author, and an explanation of why the book would appeal to the target audience.

100. Reprint

A reprint is a new print run of a previously published book, typically after the initial stock has sold out. Reprints often include corrections or updates and sometimes feature new covers or additional material, depending on the demand for the book.