When writers ask me about word count, agent queries, or publishing paths, I almost always come back to the same two things: know your goals, and do your research.

These two will serve you better than any rule I could offer, because every answer in this industry really does depend on what you are trying to achieve. A writer who wants full creative control over their work is on a very different path than one who wants a team around them stewarding their career. Both are beautiful goals. They just lead to different choices.

The information you need is out there waiting for you. Arm yourself with it.

Get clear on your why, fill yourself with knowledge, and the path has a way of opening up.