The Learning Zone
Practical design, formatting, and editorial guidance for authors and publishers bringing a book to print.
How to Convert a Word Manuscript Into a Print-Ready KDP File
Word can’t output CMYK or reliably embed fonts. Design software like InDesign is the real fix for a print-ready KDP file; here’s the Acrobat workaround.
KDP vs. IngramSpark: Which Should You Use for Print Distribution?
Should you use KDP or IngramSpark for print? Use both: KDP for Amazon, and IngramSpark set up on its own for everywhere else. Here’s why.
How to Calculate Spine Width for a KDP Paperback
Skip the manual math. KDP’s Cover Calculator builds your spine and cover template from your exact specs. Here’s how to use it and when to regenerate it.
How Much Does IngramSpark File Setup Cost?
IngramSpark title setup is free now, but revisions after eproof approval, market access fees, and printing still cost money. Here’s the breakdown.
Questions to Ask Before Paying for Comprehensive Editing or Rewriting
Comprehensive editing and rewriting cost the most and are the hardest to judge. Here are four questions to ask an editor before you pay.
Red Flags That Signal an Editing Service Is Cutting Corners
A fast, cheap edit can look like a deal until the typos show up. Here are the red flags that an editing service has cut corners, and one nuance.
What to Look for in an Editor Before You Hire One
Editors aren’t licensed, so price and a sample edit only go so far. Here’s what to look for in an editor, starting with their style guide.
Best Practices for Giving an Editor Feedback Without Starting Over
Specific, well-timed feedback keeps a round of edits moving forward. Here’s what that looks like on a real project, and what to bring to your next round.
Best Way to Track Manuscript Versions Between Editing and Design
Manuscript versions get lost fast between an editor and a designer. Here’s the three-part file system I built after designing a book from the wrong version.
Best Order of Operations for Editing, Formatting, and a Final Proofread
The order that holds up is editing first, formatting second, a final proofread last. Here’s why, and what happened when a manuscript only looked ready for layout.