Copyrighting your work

After your masterpiece, you do not want anyone else taking the credit (or the profits) from all your hard work. Copyright over a book, manuscript or any literary work, guarantee's that you get a set of intellectual property rights and benefits that last even beyond your death. Many people think it is a long, hard process to copyright your book but it isn't. If you're not already sure how to copyright a book, you might be surprised at just how easy it is to do.

Before you look into copyrighting your book, research if your country is a signatory to the Berne Convention as that might mean you automatically own the copyright in any literary or creative work that you make yourself. Generally, your copyright is protected in the countries that are signatories to the Convention as well. And while there is no need to place the © symbol on your work, it is advisable as it acts as an signal to other people, that you claim your copyright rights over the written work.

Here are a few more things you need to know before you copyright your work:

Know your own country's copyright legislation

It's very useful to know the basics of the legislation covering copyright in your country. Many countries have organizations that helpfully explain the legislation in plain English, along with answers to frequently asked questions, so be sure to do your research on these for a greater understanding.

Use the copyright symbol

Upon creation of your written work (book, newspaper article, poetry, etc.), you have copyright. While there is no need to add the copyright symbol, it is practical to place the © symbol on your work to make others aware to your copyright claim. This is straightforward and does not require formality or registration.

Registration

While registration isn't essential, it is a way of establishing your intent to claim your rights and it makes it easier for others searching for copyright information to find your copyright.

Make sure your work is a literary work

Literary works may be published or unpublished and include non-dramatic textual works with or without illustrations. Computer programs and databases also are considered literary works.

Decide where to register

There are a number of specialist international copyright registration organizations, and most will store a copy of your work as evidence of your claim, and will be able to produce it as evidence to help prove your claim in the event of a copyright dispute.

More information which will specialise on individual countries rules and regulations on their Copyrighting rules will be coming in the next few days.