Do you want to maximize your chances of becoming traditionally published? One of the key steps goes beyond this particular manuscript. It involves approaching the industry as a professional and learning as much as you can, both about the industry itself and about the craft of writing.

Below is a list of different ways to expand your knowledge base. Some are free; some are not. Do what you can when you can, and save for the bigger things.

--Read. Read widely in your genre. Read widely among the newly published books in other genres, particularly the best sellers. Read to know what's selling now and how it's being written.

--Read industry blogs. There are lots of agents, publishers, and writers who keep regular blogs where they discuss the state of the industry, what they're looking for, and insights into the publishing world.

--Follow agents, editors, and writers on Twitter. Follow #tenqueries, #pitmad, and #MSWL.

--Read books on craft. Practice what you learn.

--Consider a membership to Publishers Weekly. It's not cheap, but it gives you insider information and insight into which agents and editors are making the best deals in your genre.

--You don't have to get a degree in Creative Writing, but classes can be a good thing. They expose you to different ideas and give you the opportunity for feedback and networking.

--Attend conferences. Some cater more to writing and some more to publishing. Read the descriptions and splurge on the one that best fits your current needs. Save money by attending local conferences. If you have to travel, try to split expenses whenever possible. Some conferences have scholarships or contests that cover the cost of conference fees.

--Participate on online forums such as Absolute Write.

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Did this chapter answer a question you had? It would be great if you would press that little star graphic in the top right corner. If not, just carry on reading and vote for one you find more helpful. Oh, I'd be happy to answer your questions in the comments below, as well. --XG