[header] How to get a publishing agent [title] Consider whether you want an agent. [step] If your dream is for your book to be published by a large publishing house, you will probably want an agent. If you are targeting smaller publishers, you may want to forego finding an agent. 
[substeps] Although an agent will collect 15% of your royalties, including your advance, as their commission, they will often be able to negotiate a better deal for you. You should weigh all these pros and cons and consider what you really want to do at this step in your writing career.