Lecture Notes on Novel Formatting

Introduction

• Video Series Overview: A series on formatting novels from scratch.
• Objective: To share everything the speaker wishes they had known when they started formatting novels.
• Audience: Useful for both traditionally published and self-published authors.
  • Special focus on self-publishing authors aiming to save money.

What is Formatting?

• Definition: Refers to the novel's layout and appearance.
  • Includes chapter headers, images, book organization, front and back matter, font size/style, and spacing.
• Goal: Seamless reading experience; formatting should enhance the reading, not distract.
• Rare Cases: Instances where formatting is meant to stand out, such as decorative chapter headers.

Video Series Goals

• Help decide if self-formatting is suitable.
• Understanding and preparing for the formatting process.
• Make the process smoother with personal insights.

About the Speaker

• Presenter: Bethany Autizada – Professor in this free mini Master Class.
• Teaching Assistant: Google – vast resource for further learning and support.

Personal Experience and Resources

• Over 10 novels formatted, learning through trial and error.
• Template: Uses a pre-formatted template to simplify formatting.

Overview of the Series

• Video 1: Ten basic formatting rules for all novels.
• Video 2: Front and back matter details.
• Video 3: Book sizing and resizing.
• Video 4: Fonts and style pane setup.
• Video 5: Adding images with the bleed feature.
• Video 6: Creating beautiful chapter headers.
• Additional resources and links for related topics.

Important Notes on Formatting

• Self-Formatting Benefits: Saves money but requires learning and effort.
• Alternative Options:
  • Formatting software like Vellum.
  • Professional formatter services.

Detailed Look at the Video Topics

1. Basic Formatting Rules

• Single Spacing: No double spacing between sentences or lines.
• Justified Text: Even alignment on both sides.
• Indentation: First line indent for paragraphs, except for the first line of chapters/after scene breaks.
• New Pages: Each chapter starts on a new page using page breaks.
• Chapter Header Placement: Begin one-third to two-thirds down the page.
• Page Numbers: Always included but not on chapter's first pages.
• Consistency: Uniform formatting throughout the book.

2. Front and Back Matter

• Front Matter: Title page, copyrights, acknowledgments.
• Back Matter: About the author, acknowledgments, other works.
• Importance: Especially for self-published authors.

3. Book Size and Sizing

• Genres: Sizes vary by genre; ensure appropriate size for the book.
• Cost Implications: Size impacts printing costs and author/reader expenses.

4. Font Selection

• Avoid Complexity: Simplicity is key for readability.
• Styling: Appropriate fonts for different book sections.
• Style Pane: Use for consistent formatting.

5. Adding Images

• Simple Additions: Author photos, title page images.
• Bleed Feature: Allows images that extend to the page edge.

6. Chapter Headers

• Creative Freedom: Opportunity for unique, eye-catching headers.
• Consistency: Ensure uniform style throughout.

Conclusion

• DIY Book Formats Template: Recommended for ease and quality.
• Summary: This video series aims to provide a detailed guide on formatting novels efficiently and effectively.

Final Thoughts

• Encouragement: Explore and enjoy the creative process of formatting.
• Engagement: Viewers are encouraged to like, share, and subscribe for more content.