In order to properly edit and layout the interior of your book, your editor and typesetter will appreciate when you follow these guidelines.
- Manuscript should be in .doc, .docx or .rtf format as one complete file (not separate chapter files).
- Consistent line spacing of either single or double spacing throughout.
- Consistent formatting of fonts, headings and bullets should be used throughout. For example, headings should all be set to the same size and bolded and/or italicized based on your preferences.
- Only one space between all periods. Note that you can utilize the Find a Replace feature in Word by searching for all periods followed by two spaces, and then replace with a period and single space.
- Use the tab key to indent the first line of all paragraphs.
- Remove headers and footers from the file.
- When developing charts, graphs or forms, consider the final trim size of your book. A chart that works in an 8.5 x 11 document needs to be readable when resized for your book. Graphics also must be high resolution (300 dpi) and printable in greyscale. Ideally use TIFF or EPS files whenever possible. JPEG and GIF files may not print as clearly. Sometimes graphics need to be reproduced specifically for printing purposes.
- Graphics should be submitted as separate files and clearly referenced in the text. Example:
- Due to formatting complexities, footnotes should be transferred to a separate page of chapter notes and included in the last page of the chapter as end notes (industry standard).
- If your manuscript has more than five images, provide a separate page with an image map to identify each image and where it is to be placed in the manuscript.
- You must have permission to reprint all images from other sources in the form of a signed release/legal agreement.
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