SOAS, University of London (The School of Oriental and African Studies)

Becoming An Author: From Proposal to Publication

Becoming an Author: From Proposal to Publication
The process of publishing can be intimidating for the first-time author. In this workshop, potential authors will find out how publishing works, and how to present a book proposal to publishers.

Target Group:

The process of publishing can be intimidating for the first-time author. In this workshop, potential authors will find out how publishing works, and how to present a book proposal to publishers.

The workshop is for researchers and staff who want to:

• find out how to convert research into books
• understand the mechanics of getting a book published commercially
• gain a realistic understanding of what publishers are looking for.
  

Course Content:

It will enable participants to understand:

• how books get commissioned
• how to approach publishers
• how publishers make decisions.

It includes practical advice on:

• putting together a book proposal
• providing information that publishers need
• understanding and negotiating a contract
• Reviewing different publishing options, including journals and the internet

In addition to the course, the trainer has offered to provide one-to-one sessions or session for small groups to help first time authors with their individual projects.

These sessions have to be registered for separately so please contact Staff Development staffdevelopment@soas.ac.uk if this is of interest to you.

Please also bear in mind that if individuals would like one-to-one advice on publishing projects they will need to send material in advance of the course so that the trainer has a chance to review it.

Workshop Leader Background Information: 
Deborah Spring has worked in the publishing industry for over 20 years. Starting as a commissioning editor for social sciences, she later moved into university publishing, and was head of academic publications at the Institute of Education, University of London, from 1994 to 2007. Deborah draws on her wide experience of work with academic authors, and her inside knowledge of both commercial and university publishing, to provide training and support for those making the transition from research to publication.

To book you can apply for this course in one of three ways:

1. Online using the Staff Development Online Booking Form
2. By downloading a request form from the link on the right
3. By email to staffdevelopment@soas.ac.uk