Everything Authors Need to Know About Advanced Reader Copies (ARCs)

Once you've finished all levels of editing, sent your manuscript off to layout, and received the first version of your interior book file back as a PDF (called a digital proof), you enter an important new phase of your publishing journey. Add your front cover to the top of that file, and you now have a key asset to share—an Advanced Reader Copy (ARC). For authors, ARCs are one of the most effective tools for building prelaunch buzz, gathering early reviews, and creating a strong foundation for a successful book launch and optimal sales.

What Are Advanced Reader Copies (ARCs)?

Advanced Reader Copies—also called galleys—are early versions of your book that can be distributed before publication. They are typically used to:

• Secure early reviews from key people and journals like Kirkus, Publishers Weekly, and others.
• Generate word-of-mouth buzz among future fans, booksellers, librarians, and others.
• Attract attention from key media outlets, influencers, and industry professionals.
• Build your email list by sharing a sample from the ARC—called a Reader Magnet—in exchange for readers' emails.

ARCs don't have to be the final version of your book, but they should be polished enough to impress readers and professionals—with no glaring typos or formatting issues. Authors often mark their ARCs as "uncorrected proofs."

Why Do Authors Need ARCs?

ARCs are a key asset that can be used during a book's prelaunch marketing. ARCs:

• Provide social proof before your book is available for sale.
• Help authors gather editorial reviews that can be used in ads and promotional materials as well as on the author's website and the book's preorder product pages.
• Create awareness and build momentum for preorder campaigns and release-day sales.

At Bublish, we recommend incorporating ARCs into your prelaunch marketing strategy at least 4–6 months before launch for optimal impact and timely results.

Physical vs. Digital ARCs

Traditionally, authors printed and mailed ARCs to reviewers and influencers. While physical copies still have their place—especially for certain media outlets—digital ARCs have transformed the process, making it faster, cheaper, and more efficient. Digital ARCs offer the following benefits:

• Instant delivery to reviewers anywhere in the world.
• Lower costs because there is no printing or shipping.
• Security features to protect your content—like watermarking, password-protection, etc.
• Tools for tracking downloads and reviews. 

Platforms like NetGalley and BookFunnel allow authors to securely send digital ARCs, manage review requests, and collect early reviews and feedback.

How to Use ARCs Effectively

1. Plan Ahead: Your ARC distribution window should ideally be 4–6 months before your book's launch, but can still be effective if the timeline is shorter.
2. Polish Your Manuscript: Send out your ARC after your book has been at least copyedited.
3. Optimize Your Outcomes: Make sure you have a plan to distribute your ARC to the right people and effectively use the reviews and feedback you receive.  
4. Request Permission: When you are sending a print or digital ARC to an individual person, always ask the recipient for permission first. We recommend keeping a spreadsheet to centralize contact information and track permissions, send and follow-up contact dates, and outcomes.
5. Follow Up Professionally: Send respectful reminders to those who have given permission for you to send the ARC, but not responded with a review. And always make sure to thank reviewers for their time.

The Bottom Line

Advanced Reader Copies—especially digital ARCs—are one of the most cost-effective tools for building buzz before your launch. They are an asset that can help you gather reviews, build credibility, and create word-of-mouth momentum before your book ever hits the shelves.

Need help managing all the steps in a professional publishing process—including ARCs? Get in touch, we'd love to be your publishing partner and help you publish like a pro!