Do I get paid for an article in a book?

Question

I've contributed an article to a volume which is a collection of articles and an introduction (by the editor of the volume). The editor says that she's signed a contract with the publisher, but she hasn't mentioned whether any of the contributers get paid for their contributions to the volume. What's normal in academic publishing? This is my first article in a book; I'm a postgraduate student.

Answer 1

If they didn't mention any pay, don't expect any pay. You shouldn't offer your article before a contract is signed to you if you want pay.

That's not just for academic titles. Some people contribute articles for the same reasons they give articles, to promote themselves.

I've been paid to write copy for webpages, but obviously I'm not getting paid to write this or my webpage (although Yahoo is making money out of it through adverts).

Answer 2

Not necessarily. The contract the editor has with the publisher covers what the editor will be paid. It's up to the editor to decide whether or not to pay the contributors. This should have been made clear when you agreed to contribute. It's very common in academe NOT to get paid for an article in a book or journal. It's considered part of your scholarly duties and the reward is that you have added to your publication record.

I've contributed to books for which I've not been paid and also have edited books for which I have not paid contributors.