100 Essential Writing and Publishing Terms All Authors Should Know
Entering the world of writing and publishing can feel overwhelming, especially with all the jargon and industry-specific terms thrown around. Whether you’re just starting your writing journey or looking to expand your knowledge, this comprehensive guide will help you understand the most important terms and abbreviations.
Glossary of writing terms and definitions (Updated for 2025!)
Writing terms and publishing definitions. Abstract. A brief summary of an article (theoretically in plain English), a standard part of most academic writing. Active voice. When the verb focuses on what the subject of the sentence is doing. Adaptation.
An Introductory Guide to Common Writing and Publishing Terms
The writing and publishing world is chock-full of terminology that can be incredibly overwhelming if you’re not familiar with them. I’ve put together this guide of common writing and publishing terms to demystify some of the jargon you’ll encounter on your writing journey, whether you’re just dipping your toes into the literary waters ...
Demystifying Publishing Jargon: 100 Common Terms Every Author Should ...
When trying to break into the writing business, you may notice a lot of jargon you don't understand. Learning these words and phrases will help you navigate your publishing journey. If you know all the phrases and words you need, things will seem less overwhelming and complicated. Publishing Jargon If you are new to publishing and don't recognize many of the words being thrown at you, you're ...
Writers’ Rumpus Glossary of Publishing Terms
NaPiBoWriWe: National Picture Book Writing Week, a challenge in which participants commit to writing seven PB manuscripts in as many days, hosted in May of each year by Paula Yoo. NetGalley: A site where publishers and authors make books available for review prior to publication. NF: Non Fiction
Glossary of Publishing Terms - Nonfiction Authors Association
Glossary of Publishing Terms Acknowledgements – An optional component in a book, which can be inserted at the beginning or end of the book, where the author writes words of thanks to those who helped with the book. This may include literary agent, editor(s), fellow authors, book contributors, interviewees, family, friends, etc.
Publishing Terms and Jargon Every Author Should Know
Now that we know all of these querying terms, let's talk about publishing terms used in book deals specifically: On submission: Once you have a literary agent and your agent is submitting your manuscript to publishers, you are on submission. Acquisition: This is the act of the publisher purchasing the rights to publish your book.
Publishing Terms A – Z - Editor Says
Answers to Your Writing and Publishing Questions. Menu. Home; Tips for Writers; Publishing Insider; Resources; About; Publishing Terms A – Z. July 19, 2016 August 22, 2016. For those of you wondering about all the acronyms and lingo used in the publishing world, here are more than 60 popular publishing terms and definitions. I trust you ...
Publishing 101: Essential Terminology To Know
So, today I wanted to take some time to go over some of the most popular terminology you will encounter on your publishing path. Here is a list of common terms that will help you understand the way the water flows in our virtual landscape, the way this industry functions, and where you can focus your efforts most profitably. Common Publishing Terms
A Writer’s Guide to Publishing Lingo: 33 Terms Every Author Needs to ...
The Essential Publishing Terms. Acquisitions Editor - The person at a publishing house responsible for acquiring new books, evaluating ... we provide the tools, resources, and support to make your writing and publishing journey intentional, strategic, and powerful. Learn more book publishing terms book publishing knowledge book publishing ...
Common Publishing Terms to Know - Ever Editing
If you’re jumping into the publishing world—welcome! We’re happy you’re here. We love new people, voices, and stories. As you’ve looked into writing groups, editing stages, publishers, and more, you’ve likely come across the many terms associated with the publishing industry. As with any trade, there is a plethora of jargon.
55 Common Publishing Terms Explained | PublishingState.com
16. Self-Publishing. Self-publishing is when an author takes full control of the publication process. This means the author handles everything from editing to cover design and marketing. While this route gives authors full creative control and a larger share of royalties, it also means they shoulder all the costs and responsibilities of getting the book to readers.
Publishing Terms You Should Know
Writing Editing Publishing Marketing. ... All the lingo and industry terms being thrown around can seem a bit overwhelming, but rest assured that it doesn’t have to be. Below are some of the more common words and phrases you’re likely to encounter when dealing with a publisher or agent. Go forth with confidence (and hopefully a stellar book ...
Glossary of Publishing Terms and Abbreviations
KDP / Kindle Direct Publishing: Amazon’s self-publishing platform. Kidlit: A common colloquial term for children’s publishing. KU / Kindle Unlimited: Amazon’s book subscription service. Self-published books that give Amazon exclusive ebook rights can be enrolled in this system, in which authors receive payment based on number of pages ...
A beginner's guide to publishing terms - Writer's Pocket
In publishing terms, narrative nonfiction refers to a genre of writing that tells true stories using the techniques and narrative elements typically found in fiction. It focuses on real events, people, or places and presents them in a compelling and storytelling manner. Narrative nonfiction combines thorough research and factual accuracy with ...
Glossary of Publishing Terms - Lambda Literary
A glossary of terms for those who want to get their book published, work with books, or otherwise understanding the publishing industry. ... Home Resources for Writers Glossary of Publishing Terms. Glossary of Publishing Terms. The publishing industry is filled with specific terminology and lingo. While it isn’t hard to learn and no one will ...
11 Common Publishing Terms All Writers Should Know
Heck, if you don't know certain industry terms, you may even have trouble interpreting advice-driven articles on writing designed to help you. Here's a list of common publishing lingo that you should know before sending your query off to agents. (And if you don't know what a query is, this list will definitely help you.)
Glossary of publishing terms for authors - Authors A.I.
Hybrid publishing – Publishing that includes a mix of self-publishing and traditional publishing. Authors pay for some services but get a publisher’s backing. Imprint – A subdivision within a larger publishing house that specializes in specific genres. Inciting incident – The event that sets the main plot of a story in motion. Also ...
Writing & Publishing Terminology 101 - Jane Friedman
Jane Friedman has spent 25+ years working in the publishing industry, with a focus on business reporting and author education. Established in 2015, her newsletter The Bottom Line provides nuanced market intelligence to thousands of authors and industry professionals; in 2023, she was named Publishing Commentator of the Year by Digital Book World.