After writing a book authors need to take care of their books formats in order to have them ready for self-publishing. There are some standards to follow to format books and it is really important to take them into consideration when submitting your book for self-publishing.
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Standard # 1: When margins are considered for the top and the bottom, a .95” margin is always recommended. The inside margin should be around .75”. This way you can create enough space for the binding of the book.
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Standard # 2: During the editing and checking stage you can use double-spacing to facilitate the process. Actually, many self-publishing companies allow you to submit your book using double-spacing. However, once you have completed the editing process, you can use single-spacing especially to know the real length of your book.
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Standard # 3: The most common page size for a manuscript is 8.5” x 11”, especially for manuals and workbooks. In the case of novels and short story collections, the standard is around 5” x 8”, because it helps create a more intimate experience for readers. Longer novels can be a bit larger, to 6” x 9”. That depends on the author’s preferences.
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Standard # 4: Always format your paragraphs to FULL Justified and check the spelling and grammar. Don’t trust in the automatic checking. It doesn’t detect all the errors. You should check it on your own as many times as possible. It is highly recommended to find a third person (other than you and your editor) to check the text to give you a third opinion.
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Standard # 5: The body text should be set to 10 to 12 point. You can use the font you like the most, but make sure it is a really easy-to-read font. Times New Roman and Arial tend to be the most recommend fonts. The font and its size should look professional enough.
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Standard # 6: Chapters should always start on a right-hand page. This is a critical requirement to comply. So, pay attention to the end of your chapters and add blank page at the end of them in the case they need it. This way, the next chapter will always begin on a right-hand page.
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Standard # 7: Never forget to number your pages. Pages numbers are generally placed on the bottom of the pages and on the outside section.
Simple advices can give your book a really professional appearance. Take care of every small detail. Get in contact with your publishing company and make sure your book meets all the requirements for submission.