It really is a similar story every year: This year the actual book will finally get published! This year could really be it. Here's how to get a novel published this year. Creating a book is tough enough, however getting it published by a legitimate publisher--large or even small--is when the real challenge starts. Things you will need is a Word processor, printer, the envelopes and postage.

In summary,

1. Complete the book. It ought to go without saying, however the book should be finished before publishers or agents would want to take a look at it, especially if this is a first novel. I suggest writing 600 to 1,200 words daily. At 800 words a day, 7 days weekly, a 70,000 word manuscript will be finished in about three months.

2. Edit, edit, edit. Then edit more. This is where writer's groupings, workshops and professional feedback come in. A book is made or lost through the editing process. Published novels are not just edited for grammar and spelling, they're also edited for story content, character arcs and narrative structure. A good editor often means the distinction between a published book and a stack of papers accumulating dust in the desk drawer.

3. Find an agent or even publisher. This is where literature like Writer's Market and Literary Marketplace come in. Do a little research. Which published books are exactly like the one just completed? Who publishes that type of book? Make a list of agents and publishers who may consider the novel.

4. Query properly. Many agents and publishers possess submission guidelines on their website and in publishing instructions like Writers Market. Follow the guidelines exactly. Not following guidelines is the quickest route to the trash.

5. Wait. Yes, wait. Do more research and keep writing while waiting around. If the agent or publisher does not reply, follow up after a few weeks prior to moving on to query others.