It typically takes me a couple weeks to package a manuscript for submission.

I need to copy all the text over to a new document without any hidden text, bookmarks, or such. Then reapply updated formatting to sections, headings, and such.

I typically wait until I have the book nearly finished before finalizing the cover image. I almost always change my mind about what I want on the cover as I get close to the end.

I do one more spelling and grammar check. Occasionally this uncovers inconsistencies in how I used certain terms. Occasionally I then need to redo a graph or image to ensure all the vocabulary is used consistently throughout the book.

I scan through the document searching for keywords to include in the submission form. Once published, I will post the keywords on my website. The distributors will post the keywords on their websites. The resellers will use the keywords within their search engines.

I wait until I have finished the content before I write the abstract, long description, and short description.

When I think I have everything all together, I clone the document. Different distributors have different rules about the final version. For example, one distributor has a tool that automatically generates the table of contents. Another distributor requires a manually created table of contents with specific wording and formatting. Lots of time consuming manual effort goes into these distributor specific updates.

I then check with any reviewers to see if they have any last minute feedback.

When everything is package, I begin the upload process to the distributors. Their automation does whatever it does and then I download what they have to verify the accuracy of their release.

Finally, I update my website with links to the reseller versions.