How to format a novel for publishing

So, you've finished writing your novel? Awesome! But hold on, you're not quite done yet. Before you send it to agents, publishers, or even publish it yourself, you need to know how to format it correctly. Proper formatting isn't just about looks. It's about making your book easy to read, looking professional, and showing respect. This guide will show you the simple steps to make your novel shine.

Why is Novel Formatting Important?

Think of formatting like dressing up your book for a big event. A well-formatted book:

• Looks professional: It shows you care and know what you're doing.
• Is easy to read: Readers can focus on your story, not weird spacing.
• Doesn't distract: No odd fonts or sizes to pull readers out of the story.
• Reduces rejection: Agents and publishers won't toss it aside just because it looks messy.
• Helps editors: Clean formatting makes their job easier.

Essential Elements of Novel Formatting

Okay, let's get into the nitty-gritty. Here's what you need to know:

1. Font and Font Size

Use Times New Roman, size 12. That's the standard. No fancy fonts. Why? It's easy to read and what everyone expects. Just stick to one font throughout your whole book.

Why Times New Roman? Think of it like wearing a suit to a job interview. It's classic and professional.

2. Line Spacing

Make sure your manuscript is double-spaced. This gives room for notes and changes. You can usually find this setting under "Format" or "Paragraph" in your word processor.

Why Double Spacing? It's another industry standard. Non-negotiable.

3. Margins

Set your margins to 1-inch on all sides. Top, bottom, left, and right. Again, it gives room for notes and makes it easier to read.

4. Paragraph Indentation

Indent the first line of each paragraph by 0.5 inches. Don't use the tab key! Use the indentation feature in your word processor. This keeps everything consistent.

How to Indent Properly: Look for "Indentation" options under "Format" > "Paragraph". Choose "First line."

5. Header and Footer

Put your last name, the title of your novel, and the page number on every page (except the title page).

• Your Last Name / Title of Your Novel / Page Number

Like this: Smith / The Shadow Within / 12

Where to Place the Information: Top right or bottom right. Just pick one and stick with it.

6. Page Numbers

Number all pages starting with page 1. Use regular numbers. Put the page number in the header or footer, like we just talked about.

7. Title Page

This is the first page. Center the following info:

• Title of Your Novel
• Your Name (or Pen Name)
• Your Contact Information (Address, Phone Number, Email Address)
• Word Count (Optional, but a good idea)

Example Title Page:

The Shadow Within

By

Jane Smith

123 Main Street

Anytown, USA 12345

(555) 555-5555

[email protected]

Word Count: 85,000

Note: No header or footer on the title page.

8. Chapter Breaks

Start each chapter on a new page. Center the chapter number or title about a third of the way down.

Example Chapter Break:

Chapter 1

The rain lashed against the window…

9. Scene Breaks

To show a break within a chapter, use a symbol. Three asterisks () or a horizontal line (---) are common. Center it on a blank line.

Example Scene Break:

…She closed the door behind her.

He waited in the shadows…

10. Dialogue

Use single quotation marks only for dialogue inside of dialogue.

Example Dialogue:

“What do you mean, you lost it?” she asked.

“I don’t know! I just can’t find it anywhere,” he replied, his voice rising in panic.

11. File Format

Save your manuscript as a .docx file. That's Microsoft Word. Almost everyone uses it.

Advanced Formatting Tips for Novel Publishing

Want to make your novel really stand out? Here are a few extra tips:

1. Check Your Word Processor’s Settings

Make sure your word processor is set to US English. Turn off automatic hyphenation, too.

2. Use Styles

Use the "Styles" feature. It helps keep your formatting consistent. Plus, it makes big changes easier.

3. Avoid Excessive Formatting

Don't go overboard with fonts, colors, and sizes. Keep it clean and simple.

4. Proofread Carefully

Read your manuscript very carefully. Spelling, grammar, punctuation, formatting... get it all right. Consider hiring a proofreader.

5. Consider Using Formatting Software

Want an easier way to format? Try these programs:

• Vellum (Mac only): Great for indie authors. Makes beautiful books.
• Scrivener: A powerful writing tool with formatting features.
• Atticus: Works on Mac, Windows, and more.
• Reedsy Book Editor: A free online editor.

Self-Publishing Formatting Considerations

Self-publishing? You'll need to follow the guidelines of the platform you're using. Amazon Kindle? IngramSpark? They all have their own rules.

Kindle Formatting: Use the Kindle Create tool.

Print Formatting: Pay attention to trim size, margins, and bleed settings. Hire a book designer if you can.

Conclusion

Formatting your novel might seem boring, but it's important. Follow these tips, and your book will look professional and be easy to read. Remember, it's an investment in your career. Good luck!