A tidy manuscript saves time and cost at every later step. Most formatting problems begin in the Word file.
Before you send it
- Finish writing. Editing and layout are expensive to redo if the text keeps changing.
- Self-edit. Read it aloud once. Fix obvious errors, repeated words and inconsistent names.
- Use one file. Keep the whole book in a single document.
Formatting basics
- Use built-in styles for headings (Heading 1, Heading 2) rather than bold and large text.
- Use one font, one size for body text.
- Do not use tabs or several spaces to indent. Use paragraph settings.
- Use a single paragraph break between paragraphs, not blank lines for spacing.
- Insert page breaks at chapter starts rather than pressing Enter repeatedly.
Images and tables
- Send images as separate files in the highest quality you have, and mark where each belongs.
- Give each table and figure a caption and a number.
Front and back matter
Prepare: title page, copyright page, dedication, contents, foreword or preface, acknowledgements, about the author, and any appendices.
Decide before design
- Language(s) and script.
- Trim size and target page count, if you have a preference.
- Whether you want a paperback, hardcover, eBook or all three.
Once ready, see book editing and book formatting, or talk to us.