What Is an ARC in Book Publishing?

Glossary > ARC

What Does ARC Stand For?

In publishing, ARC stands for Advance Reader Copy.

The term is sometimes incorrectly expanded as Advanced Reader Copy. However, Advance Reader Copy is the standard publishing term because the copy is provided in advance of publication.

ARCs may also be called:

• Advance copies
• Advance reading copies
• Reader copies
• Review copies
• Prepublication copies
• Galleys
• Digital review copies

These terms sometimes overlap, although their exact meanings may differ between publishers.

What Is the Purpose of an ARC?

An ARC gives selected readers enough time to read and discuss a book before or around its publication date.

A publisher may send ARCs several weeks or months before release so reviewers can prepare:

• Book reviews
• Blog posts
• Social media content
• Video reviews
• Podcast discussions
• Magazine coverage
• Newspaper coverage
• Bookseller recommendations
• Library purchasing decisions
• Endorsement quotes

Authors can also use ARCs to build relationships with readers who regularly review books in their genre.

The recipient should always be free to give an honest opinion. Sending an ARC does not guarantee a review, a positive rating, media coverage, or a recommendation.

How Is an ARC Different From the Finished Book?

An ARC should represent the same essential work that readers will eventually purchase, but it may not be identical to the finished edition.

An advance copy may contain:

• Minor typographical errors
• Uncorrected formatting
• Temporary illustrations
• Low-resolution images
• An unfinished index
• Placeholder text
• A preliminary copyright page
• A temporary cover
• A notice that the book is not for sale
• A statement that quotations should be checked against the final edition

The final book may include corrections and small production improvements.

However, the plot, argument, central content, characters, conclusions, and overall reading experience should not change substantially after ARCs are distributed. Reviews based on a significantly different manuscript may misrepresent the book readers eventually receive.

What Does an ARC Cover Look Like?

A printed ARC may use the planned final cover, an unfinished cover, or a simple temporary design.

Publishers often add language such as:

• Advance Reader Copy
• Advance Reading Copy
• Uncorrected Proof
• Not for Sale
• Publication Date
• Final Cover to Come
• Please Check Quotations Against the Finished Book

The cover or back cover may also contain practical information for reviewers, including:

• Book title
• Author name
• Publisher
• Publication date
• ISBN
• Format
• Retail price
• Genre
• Page count
• Contact details
• Marketing highlights
• Author biography
• Request for reviews or media coverage

A digital ARC may include similar information on its cover or opening pages.

What Is a Digital ARC?

A digital ARC is an electronic advance copy of a book.

It may be distributed as:

• An EPUB file
• A PDF
• A MOBI or Kindle-compatible file
• A protected online reading copy
• A file delivered through a review platform
• A private download link
• A retailer or distribution-system review copy

Digital ARCs are often less expensive and faster to distribute than printed copies. They also make it easier to reach international reviewers without paying for printing and shipping.

However, some reviewers, booksellers, librarians, and media professionals prefer physical copies. Authors should check each recipient’s submission or review preferences before sending a file.

What Is a Print ARC?

A print ARC is a physical prepublication copy of a book.

It may be created through:

• A short digital print run
• An offset printer
• A print-on-demand service
• A publisher’s internal printing process
• Author or proof-copy ordering

Print ARCs are particularly useful when approaching:

• Independent bookstores
• Librarians
• Print reviewers
• Journalists
• Event organizers
• Influencers who feature physical books
• Reviewers who do not accept digital files

Printed copies can feel more personal and professional, but they require production, packaging, and shipping costs.

ARC vs. Proof Copy

An ARC and a proof copy are not exactly the same.

A proof copy is primarily created so the author, editor, designer, or publisher can inspect the book before approving it for publication.

A proof may be used to check:

• Typographical errors
• Page layout
• Margins
• Image quality
• Cover alignment
• Spine width
• Paper choice
• Printing quality
• Headers and page numbers

An ARC is primarily distributed to outside readers for reviews, publicity, recommendations, or purchasing consideration.

A proof copy is part of quality control. An ARC is part of prepublication outreach and marketing.

A clean proof may sometimes be used as an ARC, but authors should complete their main editing and proofreading before sending it to reviewers.

ARC vs. Author Copy

An author copy is a copy of the published or production-ready book ordered or supplied for the author’s own use.

Authors may use author copies to:

• Sell books directly
• Attend events
• Sign copies
• Send gifts
• Supply media contacts
• Create promotional content
• Check the finished edition

An ARC is specifically intended for use before or around publication. An author copy is generally produced from the final book files and may be ordered before or after release, depending on the publishing platform.

ARC vs. Galley

The word galley traditionally referred to an early typeset version of a book used during proofreading and production.

Today, galley and ARC are sometimes used interchangeably, especially when referring to a prepublication book sent to reviewers.

However, a galley may be less finished than an ARC. It may have:

• Basic formatting
• No final cover
• Incomplete front or back matter
• Uncorrected text
• Temporary page numbering

Terminology varies between publishers, so authors should clarify which stage of the book is being discussed.

ARC vs. Beta Copy

A beta copy is shared with beta readers while the manuscript is still being developed.

Beta readers may provide feedback about:

• Plot
• Pacing
• Character development
• Clarity
• Structure
• Reader expectations
• Confusing sections
• Emotional impact

An ARC should usually be distributed after major developmental revisions are complete.

The difference is primarily the purpose:

• Beta readers help improve the manuscript.
• ARC readers evaluate and discuss a nearly finished book.
• Proofreaders identify errors in the text.
• ARC reviewers may publish opinions for other readers.

Authors should not use an ARC campaign as a substitute for editing or beta reading.

Who Receives Advance Reader Copies?

Potential ARC recipients include:

• Professional book reviewers
• Book bloggers
• Journalists
• Magazine editors
• Newspaper reviewers
• Librarians
• Booksellers
• Teachers
• Academics
• Industry professionals
• Genre influencers
• BookTok creators
• Bookstagram creators
• YouTube reviewers
• Podcast hosts
• Newsletter writers
• Existing readers
• Street-team or launch-team members
• Authors who may provide endorsements

The most effective recipients are usually people whose audience, professional role, or reading interests match the book.

Sending a romance novel to a reviewer who only covers business books is unlikely to generate useful coverage.

Who Can Be an ARC Reader?

Almost anyone can become an ARC reader, but a useful ARC reader should:

• Read the relevant genre or subject
• Understand that the book is not yet publicly released
• Be able to meet the requested reading timeline
• Give an honest response
• Follow retailer and review-platform rules
• Avoid sharing the file without permission
• Disclose that they received a free copy when appropriate
• Avoid copying or reproducing unpublished content

ARC readers do not have to be professional reviewers. Engaged readers with a relevant audience can also help a book reach potential buyers.

However, authors should be cautious about relying on close personal connections for retailer reviews. Some platforms may restrict reviews that appear biased, promotional, or connected to the author.

How Do Authors Find ARC Readers?

Authors can find ARC readers through:

• Their email list
• Existing reader communities
• Social media
• Author websites
• Book clubs
• Genre-specific communities
• Professional review services
• ARC distribution platforms
• Blogger directories
• Influencer outreach
• Launch teams
• Publishing events
• Librarian and bookseller contacts
• Other authors in related genres

Authors should prioritize relevant readers over the largest possible list.

A smaller group of reliable mystery readers is usually more useful for a new mystery novel than a large group with no demonstrated interest in the genre.

When Should Authors Send ARCs?

The ideal schedule depends on the type of recipient and the complexity of the campaign.

A general timeline might be:

Three to six months before publication

Send copies to:

• Trade publications
• Major media outlets
• Librarians
• Booksellers
• Professional reviewers
• Long-lead magazines
• Potential endorsers

These recipients may plan coverage far in advance.

Six to twelve weeks before publication

Send copies to:

• Book bloggers
• Podcast hosts
• Online reviewers
• Newsletter writers
• Genre influencers
• Book clubs

Two to six weeks before publication

Send copies to:

• Launch-team members
• Existing readers
• Social media creators
• Readers participating in release-week promotion

The timeline should give recipients enough time to read the entire book without forcing the author to distribute an unfinished manuscript.

How Many ARCs Should an Author Send?

There is no fixed number.

The appropriate number depends on:

• The author’s audience
• The genre
• The marketing budget
• Printing and shipping costs
• The size of the launch
• The number of confirmed reviewers
• Whether copies are digital or printed
• The author’s existing relationships
• The expected response rate

A first-time independent author might begin with a small, carefully selected group. A larger publisher may distribute hundreds or thousands of advance copies.

Authors should expect that some recipients will not read the book, publish a review, or respond. Sending a free book is an invitation to consider the title, not a contract requiring coverage.

Do ARC Readers Get Paid?

ARC readers are not normally paid by the author simply for leaving a customer review.

The recipient may receive a free copy, but the author should not:

• Pay for a positive customer review
• Require a particular star rating
• Ask the reader to remove a negative review
• Offer a reward only if the review is favorable
• Tell reviewers what opinion to express
• Exchange reviews with another author
• Use misleading or undisclosed review practices

Professional editorial reviews, media services, publicity packages, and reviewer fees are separate arrangements. A publication or professional reviewer may charge for an editorial-review service, but this does not guarantee a positive result and may not qualify as a customer review on a retailer.

Authors should check the current rules of each retailer, platform, or publication before arranging reviews.

Can You Give a Free Book in Exchange for a Review?

Authors can often provide a free advance copy and invite the recipient to leave an honest review, but they must not attempt to control the outcome.

The request should make clear that:

• A review is voluntary
• An honest opinion is expected
• A positive rating is not required
• The free copy should be disclosed when necessary
• The reviewer should follow the platform’s rules

A suitable request might be:

You are receiving a complimentary advance copy. There is no obligation to review the book, but an honest review would be appreciated.

Policies vary between retailers and review platforms, so authors should verify the relevant rules before running an ARC campaign.

Must ARC Readers Disclose the Free Copy?

Reviewers should disclose that they received a complimentary copy when required by the platform, applicable advertising rules, or the context in which the review appears.

Common wording includes:

I received a complimentary advance copy of this book.

Or:

I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.

The disclosure should not imply that a positive review was required.

Clear disclosure helps readers understand the relationship between the reviewer and the publisher or author.

Can ARC Reviews Be Posted Before Publication?

It depends on the platform.

Some review communities allow readers to discuss and rate books before their official publication dates. Retailer product pages may not exist yet, may not accept reviews until the book is available, or may apply additional eligibility requirements.

Authors should therefore plan several types of early coverage:

• Reviews on book-discovery platforms
• Blog reviews
• Social media posts
• Newsletter recommendations
• Podcast appearances
• Video reviews
• Endorsement quotes
• Release-day retailer reviews, where permitted

An ARC campaign should not depend entirely on one retailer.

What Is an Editorial Review?

An editorial review is a professional or publication-level assessment of a book.

It may come from:

• A trade review publication
• A newspaper
• A magazine
• A professional reviewing service
• A recognized critic
• A bookseller
• A librarian
• Another author
• An industry specialist

Editorial reviews differ from customer reviews. They may be used in:

• Marketing materials
• Retailer editorial-review sections
• Book covers
• Advertisements
• Catalogs
• Press releases
• Author websites
• Sales presentations

Before using a quotation, authors should confirm that they have permission and preserve the reviewer’s meaning accurately.

What Is an ARC Endorsement?

An ARC endorsement is a favorable statement, recommendation, or quotation supplied by someone who read the advance copy.

It is often called a testimonial, endorsement, or cover quote.

A strong endorsement may come from:

• A recognized author
• A relevant expert
• A critic
• A bookseller
• A librarian
• A publication
• A respected person in the book’s subject area

Publishers may place endorsement quotes on:

• The front cover
• The back cover
• Opening pages
• Retailer descriptions
• Advertisements
• Press materials
• Social media graphics

The quotation should be accurate, authorized, and attributed correctly.

Should an ARC Be Fully Edited?

An ARC should be substantially edited before it reaches reviewers.

Ideally, the manuscript has already completed:

• Developmental editing
• Structural revision
• Line editing
• Copyediting
• Author revisions
• Initial proofreading

Minor corrections may still be made after ARC distribution. However, reviewers should not be expected to evaluate a rough or incomplete draft.

A poorly edited ARC can produce negative reviews that remain associated with the book even after the errors are corrected.

Can ARC Readers Report Errors?

Yes. ARC readers sometimes identify:

• Typographical mistakes
• Formatting problems
• Inconsistent names
• Timeline errors
• Broken links
• Incorrect references
• Missing words
• Image problems

Authors may choose to provide a separate form or email address for error reports.

However, ARC readers should not be treated as unpaid proofreaders. Their primary role is to read and potentially review the book, not to replace professional editing and quality control.

Should an ARC Have an ISBN?

A printed ARC does not always need its own ISBN.

Some publishers use the final edition’s bibliographic information, while others mark the ARC clearly as a non-sale copy. The appropriate setup depends on how the copy is produced, tracked, and distributed.

An ARC should not normally be offered for retail sale as though it were the final edition.

If a separate edition is commercially published or distributed, it may require its own identifier depending on its format and market.

Can Authors Sell ARCs?

ARCs are generally created as promotional, review, or professional-evaluation copies and are commonly marked Not for Sale.

Recipients may later resell collectible physical ARCs through secondhand marketplaces, although authors and publishers do not usually intend these copies for commercial sale.

Authors should not distribute an unfinished ARC as the final retail product. Readers purchasing a book should receive the completed and approved edition.

Can an ARC Be Watermarked?

Yes. Digital ARCs may include visible or invisible identification intended to discourage unauthorized sharing.

Possible protections include:

• The reviewer’s name
• A unique download link
• A personalized watermark
• Limited access
• Password protection
• Expiring access
• Digital rights management
• Tracking through an ARC platform

Protection should be balanced with usability. Reviewers may decline files that are difficult to open or restricted to unsupported devices.

How to Prepare an ARC

1. Complete the main editing

Finish developmental editing, structural changes, and copyediting before distributing the book.

2. Finalize the central content

Make sure the plot, argument, chapter structure, ending, and major illustrations are unlikely to change.

3. Proofread the files

Remove as many errors as possible before outside readers see the book.

4. Add an ARC notice

Clearly mark the copy as an Advance Reader Copy or uncorrected proof.

5. Include publication information

Provide the title, author, release date, publisher, format, and contact details.

6. Prepare the correct file formats

Create digital files that work on common reading devices and print files that meet the printer’s requirements.

7. Build a relevant recipient list

Research each reviewer’s interests, submission instructions, audience, and preferred format.

8. Write a personalized pitch

Explain why the book may be relevant to that particular recipient.

9. Track distribution

Record who received the ARC, when it was sent, the format, and any expected publication date.

10. Follow up professionally

Send one polite reminder when appropriate. Do not repeatedly pressure the recipient or demand a positive review.

What Should an ARC Email Include?

An ARC invitation should be brief and specific.

Include:

• The book title
• Genre or subject
• Short description
• Author name
• Publication date
• Why the recipient was selected
• Available formats
• Expected reading timeline
• Whether a review is optional
• Contact information
• A link or method for requesting the copy

Avoid attaching a large unsolicited manuscript file. Ask whether the recipient is interested unless their submission guidelines explicitly invite direct attachments.

How ARCs Support a Book Launch

A successful ARC campaign as a part of your book launch plans can contribute to:

• Early awareness
• Reader discussion
• Editorial coverage
• Endorsement quotes
• Bookseller interest
• Library interest
• Social media content
• Newsletter recommendations
• Podcast interviews
• Release-week reviews
• Word-of-mouth promotion

ARCs work best as one part of a wider book marketing plan.

They should be coordinated with:

• Preorders
• Cover reveals
• Author interviews
• Email marketing
• Social media
• Promotional pricing
• Advertising
• Book events
• Distribution setup
• Metadata optimization

Do Self-Published Authors Need ARCs?

ARCs are optional, but they can be particularly valuable for self-published authors who do not have a traditional publisher’s publicity or bookselling network.

An independent author can use ARCs to:

• Introduce a new series
• Re-engage existing readers
• Build a launch team
• Collect endorsement quotes
• Reach book bloggers
• Approach relevant influencers
• Contact independent bookstores
• Inform librarians
• Support preorders
• Generate launch-period awareness

The campaign should be scaled to the author’s audience, budget, and available time.

Common ARC Campaign Mistakes

Sending the ARC too late

Reviewers need enough time to read the complete book and prepare coverage.

Sending an unfinished manuscript

Major errors or structural problems can result in poor reviews and lost opportunities.

Contacting irrelevant reviewers

Research the recipient’s preferred genres, subjects, and review policy.

Expecting every recipient to respond

A free copy does not guarantee a review or reply.

Asking only for positive reviews

ARC readers must be free to express an honest opinion.

Ignoring platform rules

Retailers and review platforms have different policies concerning eligibility, disclosures, relationships, and promotional content.

Sending unsolicited attachments

Large files may be rejected as spam or create security concerns.

Failing to track the campaign

Without a record, authors may duplicate messages or forget agreed follow-ups.

Depending only on retailer reviews

Blogs, newsletters, podcasts, social media, booksellers, and librarians can also provide valuable exposure.

Frequently Asked Questions About ARCs

What is an ARC in publishing?

An ARC is an Advance Reader Copy, a prepublication version of a book sent to reviewers, booksellers, librarians, journalists, influencers, and selected readers before the official release.

Does ARC mean Advance or Advanced Reader Copy?

The standard publishing term is Advance Reader Copy. It is sometimes incorrectly called an Advanced Reader Copy.

Is an ARC the final version of a book?

An ARC should be close to the final version, but it may contain minor errors, unfinished artwork, preliminary formatting, or a temporary cover.

Are ARC books free?

ARCs are normally supplied free to selected recipients for review, publicity, endorsement, or professional evaluation.

Are ARC readers required to leave a review?

No. Receiving an ARC should not create an obligation to publish a review. Any review should be voluntary and honest.

Can an author ask for a positive ARC review?

No. An author may invite an honest review but should not request, purchase, reward, or require a positive rating.

How early should ARCs be sent?

Major media, trade publications, librarians, and booksellers may need copies three to six months before release. Bloggers, influencers, and launch teams may work with shorter timelines.

Can an ARC be digital?

Yes. Digital ARCs may be distributed as EPUB, PDF, protected online copies, private downloads, or files delivered through review platforms.

What is the difference between an ARC and a proof?

A proof is primarily used to inspect the book for production and formatting problems. An ARC is distributed to readers and publishing professionals for reviews, publicity, endorsements, or purchasing consideration.

Can self-published authors create ARCs?

Yes. Independent authors can create print or digital ARCs and distribute them directly or through publishing and review-copy services.

Should an ARC include the final cover?

Not necessarily. An ARC can use a preliminary cover, although it should be clearly marked when the final design is not yet available.

Can quotes from ARC reviews be used in marketing?

They may be used when the reviewer has authorized the quotation or its use is otherwise permitted. Quotes should be attributed correctly and should not be edited in a way that changes their meaning.

Key Takeaway

An ARC is an Advance Reader Copy sent to selected readers before a book’s official publication date.

It gives reviewers, booksellers, librarians, journalists, influencers, and industry professionals time to evaluate the book before release.

A strong ARC should be close to the finished edition, clearly marked as a prepublication copy, and distributed early enough for recipients to read it. Authors should ask only for honest, voluntary feedback and must follow the review and disclosure policies of each platform.