Publishing FAQ | Before You Start

Before You Start

Know the process before you commit.

Publishing works better when the objective, inputs, deliverables, responsibilities, and approval points are clear before production begins.

MMG Project Guide
Common questions

Clear answers before production.

Do I need a finished manuscript before I start?

Not always. The right starting point depends on the service. A project that already has a complete manuscript may be ready for editing or production, while an incomplete manuscript may need research, content enhancement, or additional writing work first. Start with the service scope or use Find Your Path if you are unsure.

What if my manuscript needs editing or more depth?

MMG offers Editing & Proofreading and Research & Content Enhancement as separate service paths. The correct path depends on whether the issue is mainly polish and consistency or whether the material needs additional substance, structure, or supporting content.

What does “publish-ready” or “KDP-ready” mean?

It means the deliverables defined in the purchased service are prepared for the next publishing-platform step using the applicable formatting, review, and production requirements. It does not mean every platform action or distribution task is automatically included.

Does MMG upload and publish my book to Amazon for me?

MMG prepares the deliverables defined in your purchased service. If platform upload, account administration, or distribution is not explicitly included in that service, those actions remain outside the scope. Review the exact service description before purchase.

What files will I receive?

The production specification and purchased service define the deliverables. File types can vary by project. MMG’s Project Guide is designed to make deliverables, inputs, exclusions, and approvals explicit before production proceeds.

How many revisions are included?

Revision terms are defined by the specific service and approved project specification. Do not assume a revision allowance that is not stated in the service or project documentation.

How long will my publishing project take?

Timelines vary with project scope, manuscript condition, required services, customer response time, and approval speed. The Project Guide shows the stages so progress is visible even when individual project timelines differ.

Who owns my manuscript and finished work?

Ownership and licensing treatment follows the terms attached to the specific service, purchase, and supplied materials. If ownership treatment is material to your project, review the applicable terms or contact Customer Service before purchasing.

How does MMG use AI or automation?

Technology may support research, organization, drafting assistance, production workflow, quality checks, or other defined tasks. It is a production tool—not the publisher—and it does not eliminate the project’s review, standards, or customer-approval requirements.

What happens immediately after I purchase a service?

The project moves into the intake and validation path defined by the service and MMG Project Guide. The goal is to establish the objective, required inputs, deliverables, constraints, and approvals before production is treated as authorized.

Where do I see project progress and deliverables?

Active customer work is organized through the secure Customer Portal where supported. The public website does not expose customer-specific project records.

Which service is right for me?

Use Start Here / Find Your Path. Begin with the outcome you want, then follow the recommended resource or service rather than trying to compare the whole catalog at once.

Project scope wins over assumptions.

Before production, use the service description and project specification as the source of truth for deliverables, exclusions, responsibilities, approvals, and revisions.