Page by Page: Perfecting Your Book’s Presentation

As I meander through the myriad of online groups and discussions involving independent authors, I’ve stumbled upon a recurring theme in the feedback many authors receive. It’s not the story that’s drawing criticism, but rather the book’s presentation. Yes, potential readers are judging books by their covers—and the pages within.

The Importance of Presentation

Writing a book is an arduous journey, and while the narrative is the soul of your work, its presentation is equally crucial. A ‘look inside’ feature common on many websites allows readers to glimpse the quality of your book before purchase, making impeccable formatting non-negotiable.

My Experience with ‘Rabbit Fever’

Take my novel, Rabbit Fever, for example. The meticulous process of checking, re-reading, formatting, and proofreading was as time-consuming as the writing itself. The positive feedback I’ve received, even comments like “It actually looks like a real book,” is both affirming and a testament to the effort invested.

Common Formatting Pitfalls

In my observations, certain formatting choices scream ‘self-published’ or ‘novice author’:

1. Left Justification: This gives a book the look of a grade school project. The fix is simple: select your text and apply full justification for a clean, professional appearance.
2. Page Numbering: Starting page numbers from one on the first page is a rookie mistake. Properly formatted front matter should lead to the story beginning on page one.
3. Consistent Font Size: I’ve seen books where the font size changes mid-page. Consistency is key to maintaining a professional look.
4. Proper Page Allocation: Your story should start on the right-hand page. Starting on the left is unconventional and can be jarring for readers.

Upcoming Series on Formatting

Given these insights, I’m considering a series to share what I’ve learned about formatting. From widow/orphan control to sentence structure, these tips could aid fellow authors.

Your Thoughts?

Does poor formatting deter you from a story, or is it just me being particular? Let’s discuss.

---

Formatting Tips for Authors

Here are some quick tips to enhance your book’s layout:

• Justify Your Text: Use full justification for a polished look.

Select the text > Right-click > Paragraph > Justification > Full

• Page Numbers: Begin the story on page one, post front matter.

Insert > Page Number > Format Page Numbers > Start at: 1

• Font Consistency: Ensure the font size remains uniform throughout.

Highlight the text > Home > Font Size > Select a size

• Correct Page Start: Always start your story on a right-hand page.

Insert > Section Break > Next Page

By adhering to these formatting standards, you can elevate your book from amateur to professional, ensuring that your story is presented in the best possible light.