Since self-publishing is already gaining a lot of attention, more authors need to learn how to do things on their own aside from just writing the book. This includes editing, lay-outing and formatting your work. There are certain guidelines that can make your tasks even easier. You don’t have to be left in the dark as to how you should create your book. By following these simple rules, you can create a professional looking book in no time. There are actually different book formatting guidelines depending on the self-publishing platform or the POD (print-on-demand) publisher that you are using. Don’t fret since platforms and publishers have posted some tips and guidelines for users.
Amazon, for one, has the Simplified Formatting Guide that can help you in the layout of your work. The guide includes tips in building your book which includes the file format you have to use, the layout, image placement, and grammar. It also takes into account how you format your text like the size, indentations, spacing and fonts. When formatting your text, you have to consider the reading experience of your readers.
The same goes out for other platforms. Most often, they have the same formatting guidelines. The size of the documents would be important. Different platforms and publishers scale the documents differently and this can affect how your book will look like. Your printed book may have unexpectedly smaller fonts than the original, especially when your platform scales 75% of the original. So, you have to know how your document will be scaled so you can have the appropriate size for your book.
Different platforms also accept different file formats depending on how your book will be distributed. Amazon accepts books in HTML. Others also require your eBooks to be in PDF format. So, make sure that you have formatted your work on the appropriate file. Make the proper editing when saving your work.
Don’t use unusual and quirky fonts for your work, unless you are writing for kids and it really is the style for your work. This, oftentimes, makes the book difficult to read. Another thing is that not all fonts are readily available, especially when printing. So, it would be best to opt for standard fonts and sizes. Also allow enough space to make the content readable and not that crowded. Include the line spaces and proper margins.
Most importantly, double check your work. Make sure that you read and reread and your work. Check the page numbering, layout, and the contents of your work prior to submitting it to the platform. Ensure that everything is in its right place and that there are no errors so your readers can get the best quality work you have to offer.
