Book layout design, or “typesetting,” is the art of creating a book's interior. It involves all of the decisions that influences the way readers experience the content of your printed book: fonts, spacing, the styling of chapter headings, margins, etc.
There are certain confusions regarding layouts, typesetting and formatting a book. Formatting can be termed as a part of layout.
Formatting is generally just adjusting text fonts, margins, etc. to meet specifications; needs little skill and simple software.
Layout is generally a more extensive service that often involves graphic design, image placement and resizing text wrapping around images, and a whole lot more. As you might expect, layout is usually more expensive, too.
Layout is a complicated process which requires graphic design software like Adobe in Design, wherein page styling, image and text options are limitless; to place images and texts on each page.
It requires skilled professionals like White Magic Studios to use these software. So it not suitable for authors who want a DIY solution. Since it is expensive and tiresome, the manuscript has to be properly edited and proofread before it is laid out and produced in PDF form for printing.
Hence, yes you! My dear author!
Before you send your book to book designers, UK for designing; be sure whether it is layout or just formatting they’re doing on your book. So if you want to save money yet create a professional book, opt for both formatting and layout of your book.
If the inner pages are just text, get it formatted while opting for layout of the book cover.
Whatever it is, make an informed choice. Layout is suitable for
- Texts with numerous pictures.
- Books with coloured interior pages.
- Book cover designs.
- Authors who have an exact idea of how his book should look like.
But most important of all, recognise a publisher who will help and self-publishers create a professional book with their expertise.
- Expertize: Some publishers may be confused between formatting and layout. Please ask.
- Programs used: Ask which software the service provider uses to have an idea of how they are about to treat your precious work.
- Fonts and images: You should have complete rights over how the fonts and images should look like, provided by publishing houses who help self-publishers as White Magic Studios. Traditional publishing houses do not agree to this.
- Agreements: Make sure you sign a contract for all the rights and terms of services.
- Get your files: If you have to make some changes or for a revised edition.
The key elements of a layout are-
- Alignments: Professional alignment means spacing and grids must be flawlessly adjusted to the needs of the book.
For alignment to be done well, your lines need to have consistent vertical spacing, as well as be spaced.
You’ll also need a consistent grid, which means making sure the text lines up horizontally from page to page.
- Margins: Margins are spaces on either side of your text as well as spaces on top and bottom. The inner margin or “gutter” of your book should be wider so that the text isn’t swallowed up. E-books have all margins equal.
- Trim size: This will apply to only those; publishing books for print. Those who are going for digital may skip reading this. Also for hardcover, the larger trim will be better.
Authors, if you’re looking for self-publishing a book, go for professional self-publishing, UK; who will create your content into a book readable enough to make great sales. Do not overlook the aspects of book-making. Make use of book cover designers, e-book convertors, illustration studios for an overall great book.
