The Scribe Method The Best Way to Write and Publish Your Non-Fiction Book

Design Your Book Layout

Have you ever picked up a book, and before even reading the first page, you felt an unsettling vibe, as if something was off? It’s hard to explain, but you can’t shake the feeling that the book might not be worth your time. This is often the result of poor book layout, which includes elements like typography, margins, and spacing.

In this post, we’ll guide you through designing a professional book layout for both print and eBooks. The layout can make or break the reading experience, and it’s crucial to understand how to get it right. Whether you’re creating your book for print, eBook, or both, a clean and professional design is key to establishing credibility and engaging your readers.

The Importance of Interior Design

Book layout, also known as typesetting or interior design, is often overlooked. Many people assume that formatting text in a program like Google Docs is sufficient. After all, it’s just text, right? However, interior layout is not as simple as it seems. It’s considered one of the most difficult aspects of design, and it’s not just about making the text look pretty.

When you choose a layout, you’ll make important decisions about:

  • Trim size (the physical size of your book)
  • Color vs. black and white
  • Paperback vs. hardcover
  • Font selection
  • Page margins
  • Spacing decisions
  • Incorporating illustrations or photos
  • Artistic design elements (if applicable)

These seemingly small decisions can make a huge difference in the readability and professionalism of your book.

The Struggles of DIY Layout

At first glance, book layout might seem simple. After all, programs like Google Docs automatically format text. But the complexity of professional book design involves more than just typing words onto a page. It’s a painstaking process that demands attention to detail, including the right punctuation, font choices, and even how paragraphs are broken.

The interior design of a book requires precision and care to avoid things like “widows” (paragraphs that break awkwardly across pages), which can distract the reader from the content. Additionally, incorrect font choices can cause headaches, and poorly placed graphics or images can make your book look amateurish. These are the things a professional designer will get right, allowing you to focus on what matters most—your content.

Why You Shouldn’t Skip a Print Version

Although designing a print book takes time and effort, it’s worth it. Many authors are opting for eBooks only, but this can create a divide between books that look professional and those that don’t. Print books, especially business books, convey a sense of credibility that eBooks alone often can’t match. When you hand out a physical copy at a conference or speaking engagement, it leaves a lasting impression.

Creating a high-quality paperback or hardcover book is one of the best ways to be taken seriously as an author. Plus, a professional print version signals to readers that you’ve invested time and effort into your work.

What Makes a Good Interior Layout?

So, what does a good interior layout look like? There’s no one-size-fits-all answer, but certain design elements make a book look more polished and professional. These elements include:

  1. Page Margins

Margins are essential for creating “negative space” on the page. They give the text room to breathe and make the book easier to read. Proper margins ensure that the text doesn’t spill into the binding area and that the reader can comfortably hold the book without covering the words. Ideally, inside margins should be slightly wider than the outside margins.

  1. Typography

The font you choose is crucial. It should be legible, professional, and compatible with different styles like italics and bold. Most books use fonts like Adobe Caslon Pro or Brandon Text. A comfortable font size is usually 11pt, but this can vary based on the type of book.

  1. Titles and Headers

Headers and titles should be easy to navigate, leading the reader from one section to the next. The flow of text should feel structured, not cramped. Properly formatted headers help readers easily locate sections and chapters, enhancing the reading experience.

  1. Trim Size

Trim size refers to the dimensions of your book. The most common size is 6 × 9 inches, but smaller sizes like 5.5 × 8.5 inches are often used for business books. Make sure your trim size fits the tone and content of your book.

DIY vs. Hiring a Professional Designer

When it comes to book layout, you have two options: do it yourself or hire a professional. While DIY tools like Vellum can help you create a decent layout for print and eBooks, nothing beats the expertise of a professional designer.

If you’re serious about your book’s presentation, hiring a designer is the best route. But keep in mind that there are different tiers of designers:

  • Cheap: While affordable, the quality may not meet your expectations.
  • Middle-tier: These designers offer solid results at a reasonable price.
  • Expensive: Top-tier professionals deliver exceptional results, but they come at a premium.

For eBooks, the process is slightly simpler. You can create eBook layouts using platforms like Fiverr, Upwork, or a professional design firm. Just be careful with automated eBook conversion tools, as they rarely deliver high-quality results.

Designing Your eBook Layout

Creating an eBook is less labor-intensive than a print book, but it still requires attention to detail. eBook file formats like EPUB and MOBI are the industry standards, with EPUB being more flexible and customizable. MOBI, on the other hand, is specific to Amazon’s Kindle platform.

If you want to ensure your eBook is formatted correctly, it’s best to hire someone who specializes in eBook layout. DIY tools like Vellum can help, but for the best results, consider working with professionals who have experience with eBook formatting.

Ready to Design Your Book Layout?

Now that you understand the importance of a professional book layout, it’s time to get started. Whether you’re tackling the layout yourself or working with a designer, remember that a polished and professional interior layout will set your book apart from the competition.

 

Want to take your book to the next level? Get a free online copy of The Scribe Method today and start designing your perfect book layout! Ready to hold your book in your hands? Purchase a hard copy and see the results for yourself!