10 Tips for Formatting Your Manuscript Like a Pro

Book formatting services can be a lifesaver for authors who want to be professional with their editor. Even though formatting may not be the most exciting topic, it’s essential to know how to format your book correctly to avoid losing readers. Using a book formatting service can ensure that your book is polished and ready for publication.

Importance of Formatting

Book Formatting Services can save you money, time, and effort when it comes to preparing your manuscript for your editor. Proper formatting shows respect for your craft and editor and it’s important to know the basics of formatting. Poor formatting can make it hard for the editor to read and edit, causing frustration and wasting the time that you’re paying for. By using a book formatting service, both you and the editor can save time, effort, and money.

From Manuscript to Masterpiece: A Guide to Formatting Your Book

Different editors, agents, and publishers may have their formatting requirements. Always check their websites and ask if unsure. The following tips are standard for both fiction and nonfiction manuscripts in the US. Variations may apply to international markets.

1- Font

Use a standard font like Times New Roman in size 12 for your manuscript. Avoid using fancy fonts, save that for later when designing the book’s interior.

2- Page Size and Margins

Use 8.5×11 inches page size and 1-inch margins for your manuscript. Double-check your document’s settings in Word by going to File>Page Setup for page size and Format>Document for margins.

3- Alignment

Use left alignment for your manuscript, also known as ragged right. Select all text and use the left justification icon in Word or go to Format>Paragraph and choose “Left” for alignment.

4- After Period Spacing

Use a single space after periods in your manuscript. This is the standard in the digital age, even if you were trained to use two rooms. Use your word processor’s Find and Replace tool to quickly make this change. Type two areas into “Find” and one space into “Replace” then hit “Replace All” to see the change.

5- Line Spacing

Use double-line spacing for your manuscript to help your editor read and edit it easily. This will give your words room to breathe on the page. In Word, select all of your text, go to Format > Paragraph, then select “Double” in the line spacing drop-down box to look for options.

6- Indentation

Indent all paragraphs by 0.5 inches using Format > Paragraph in Word. Avoid hitting a tab or space. Use the “First Line” option under “Special” and “Left” to set indentation. Exceptions are the first paragraphs of chapters, after subheads, or following lists.

7- Paragraph formatting

Format paragraphs according to genre standards. Fiction authors should use indented paragraphs, while Nonfiction authors should use full paragraph breaks. Look at books in your genre for reference and mimic the formatting conventions.

8- Page breaks

Use page breaks to start a new chapter, instead of continuously hitting the return key. In Word, place the cursor at the end of a chapter, then go to Insert > Break > Page Break in the top menu.

9- Page numbering

Number your pages starting from the page your story begins, not the title page. Go to Insert > Page Numbers in Word and select your preferred options. Place the page numbers at the top left of the page

10- Sending Manuscript

Send your manuscript as one Word document (.doc /.docx) to edit with the ‘Track Changes’ feature easily. Avoid sending individual chapters as separate files.

Conclusion

In conclusion, book formatting services are crucial for any author looking to publish their work. They ensure that your manuscript meets industry standards and is presented in a professional and readable format. With the help of book formatting services, your book will be polished, error-free, and ready for readers. Save time, frustration, and money by hiring book formatting services.