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Writing a book is a big dream for many people, but one of the first questions that comes up is: “How long will it take?”
The truth is, there’s no one-size-fits-all answer. Some writers finish a manuscript in a few weeks, while others take years. And publishing? That’s a journey in itself.
This blog breaks down the full timeline — from the first word you write to holding a finished book in your hands. Whether you’re a new writer or planning your next book, you’ll learn what to expect, how to speed up the process, and what publishing path might be right for you.
What Affects the Timeline of Writing a Book?
Several factors determine how long it takes to write and publish a book:
- Your writing pace – Are you writing daily or only on weekends?
- Book genre and length – A romance novel and a 120,000-word fantasy epic have very different timelines.
- Amount of research required – Nonfiction usually takes more prep work.
- Experience level – First-time writers often take longer.
- Support and tools – Working with editors or using writing tools can streamline the process.
- Publishing method – Traditional publishing is slower than self-publishing.
How Long Does It Take to Write a Book?
Here’s a breakdown based on writing habits and goals.
Typical Writing Timelines:
- Short book (under 50,000 words): 2–4 months
- Average-length book (60,000–80,000 words): 6–12 months
- Long book (100,000+ words): 12–18+ months
It Depends on Your Routine:
- Writing 500 words per day: ~4–6 months for a full book
- Writing 1,000+ words daily: 2–3 months
- Writing only on weekends: Up to a year
How to Stay Consistent:
- Create a weekly writing goal
- Use outlines to stay on track
- Dedicate specific times each week for writing
- Use tools like Scrivener, Grammarly, or Notion to stay organized
How Long Does It Take to Edit a Book?
Once your draft is complete, it’s time to revise and polish.
Editing Phases and Duration:
- Self-editing: 2–3 weeks
- Developmental editing (story structure, pacing): 1–2 months
- Copyediting (grammar, language flow): 3–4 weeks
- Proofreading (final checks): 1–2 weeks
🕐 Total Editing Time: 2–4 months
Hiring an editor can speed up the process and help you avoid burnout from editing your work.
How Long Does It Take to Get a Book Published?
Once your manuscript is complete, the publishing process begins. Your timeline will vary based on which route you choose:
1. Traditional Publishing
This is the longest route but comes with professional backing. You’ll usually submit your manuscript to agents, then publishers.
Timeline:
- Querying literary agents: 3–12+ months
- Getting a book deal and publisher timeline: 12–24 months
Total time from final draft to bookstore: 1.5 to 3 years
Pros:
- Credibility and professional editing
- Distribution in major bookstores
- No upfront publishing costs
Cons:
- Time-consuming and competitive
- You may lose some creative control
- Royalties can be lower than self-publishing
2. Self-Publishing
If speed and control matter to you, this is the fastest option.
Timeline:
- Final editing and formatting: 2–4 weeks
- Publishing through Amazon KDP or other platforms: 1–2 weeks
Total time from manuscript to publication: 1–2 months
Pros:
- Full creative control
- Faster publication timeline
- Higher royalty rates
Cons:
- All expenses fall on you (editing, cover, promotion)
- You’re responsible for all marketing and sales
3. Hybrid Publishing
A middle-ground option where you pay for services (editing, design, distribution) but still keep more control than traditional publishing.
Timeline:
- Production (editing to launch): 4–6 months
Pros:
- Faster than traditional
- Professional quality services
- Shared control and input
Cons:
- You pay upfront
- Must choose a reputable hybrid publisher
How to Speed Up the Writing and Publishing Process
You don’t have to spend years writing a book — here are practical ways to fast-track your journey.
Writing Tips:
- Use writing sprints or writing challenges (like NaNoWriMo)
- Outline your chapters before you begin
- Turn off distractions — even 30 minutes a day adds up
Editing Tips:
- Take a short break before self-editing, then return with fresh eyes
- Hire professional editors to reduce revisions
- Use editing software to save time
Publishing Tips:
- Research your publishing method early
- Plan your book launch during the editing phase
- Prepare marketing assets in advance (author bio, book blurb, etc.)
Common Mistakes That Slow You Down
Want to avoid unnecessary delays? Keep an eye out for these common issues:
- Endless editing loops – Learn to say “done”
- No writing schedule – Without consistency, you lose momentum
- Late marketing prep – Start building your audience early
- Unclear publishing goals – Know whether you’re self-publishing or querying from the beginning
Final Thoughts
So, how long does it take to write and publish a book?
The answer depends on you — your goals, your schedule, and your chosen path. It might take 6 months or 3 years, but the key is progress. Write consistently, edit smartly, and choose the publishing path that aligns with your goals.
Remember: Every bestselling author once started with a blank page, just like you.
FAQs: Time to Write and Publish a Book
How long does it take for a beginner to write a book?
For first-time authors, writing a book typically takes between 6 to 12 months, depending on commitment, genre, and writing habits.
Can I write a book in 30 days?
Yes — it’s possible to complete a rough draft in 30 days (like in NaNoWriMo), but it will still require months of editing and revisions afterward.
What is the fastest way to publish a book?
Self-publishing is the fastest option. Once the book is edited and formatted, you can publish on Amazon KDP or other platforms in a matter of days or weeks.
Is it worth waiting for traditional publishing?
If you’re looking for prestige, bookstore distribution, and editorial support, traditional publishing may be worth the wait. But it can take 1.5 to 3 years from start to finish.
Can hiring a ghostwriter help speed up the process?
Absolutely. Ghostwriters can help turn your ideas into a complete manuscript, often in a matter of months, especially useful for busy professionals or entrepreneurs.
