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What is typesetting?

What is typesetting?

clock - estimated reading time  Estimated reading time: 10 minutes

Contents

1. What is typesetting?
2. Why is typesetting important?
3. How to typeset a book
4. How to find a typesetter
5. Do I need typesetting for an eBook?
6. Examples of good typesetting

1. What is typesetting?

When a book is opened, the reader expects it to be clear, easy to follow, and attractive. This includes the way the text appears on the page, the spacing, fonts, and image placement. The process for this is called typesetting. Typographers, applying the scientific and artistic principles of book typography, implement or manage typesetting.

Typesetting is the process of arranging a manuscript in a specific style, with the goal of making the book both easy to read and visually appealing to the reader. The process includes choosing font, line spacing, and margins. Typesetting can also be translated to any form of digital text (eBooks, websites, apps, etc.)

Typesetting can be defined as an ancient art as it is linked back to 1040 AD in China when inventors created movable type for printing. Later on, in 1440, Johannes Gutenberg invented the printing press, involving type frames operated by hand in order to print books. From these early inventions, typesetting then moved into mechanical printing presses, to automated printing presses. It then eventually made its way into graphic software which professional typesetters use today.

Mood, time, period, and setting are intended to be evoked from typesetting. Each font, as well as the page, is laid out to reflect back to the theme of the story.

Think about a book you’ve read where something about the interior seems off (font, spacing, images). This is most likely because the typesetting wasn’t done in a way that suits the genre, and has therefore given an unreadable layout.

Each project is typeset differently, and typesetters take variables such as book length, genre, and print format into consideration. These variables impact and influence the decisions typesetters make around:

    • The trim size (the actual print size of a book e.g. 6 x 9 inches)
    • The margins (how much white space should be visible around the body text)
    • The font’s typeface and size (e.g. font name, type, and size for body text, headings, captions etc.)

Typesetters typically take care of the following aspects as well:

    • Kerning (adjusting space between characters)
    • The spacing between words
    • Word stacking (preventing rows of text from starting and ending with the same words one after the other)
    • Drop caps (styling the first character that appears in the first paragraph of the chapter)
    • Book blocks (making sure the block of text on each facing page end on the same row as the other)
    • Illustrations, graphics, and tables (identifying where they should be displayed throughout the text)
    • Orphans and widows (preventing the last or first row of a paragraph from ending isolated on the top or bottom of a page)

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2. Why is typesetting important?

Typesetting is an extremely important aspect of book design and requires a good understanding of font, font sizes, and line spacing. Good typesetting is not able to be identified by the average reader. Instead it allows for the reader to be able to enjoy the layout/text without interruption. In comparison, bad typesetting will draw the reader to identify issues and will be distracted.

The aim of typesetting is to make the readers experience enjoyable and as smooth as possible. Typesetters follow a set of rules to make the book appear professional and trade-ready. These rules ensure a high-quality design, readable print, and ease of conversion to eBook.

Below is a snapshot of reasons why professional typesetting is critical for book publishing:

    1. Readability: A well typeset book has legible text that is easy to read, making the reading experience for the reader a positive one.
    2. Looks aesthetically good: Typesetting is used to create a visual hierarchy when reading and to draw attention to the most important parts of the text.
    3. Is accessible: A good typesetter ensures that the text is readable for all readers.

The author’s goal for their book can determine the route in how typesetting is approached (DIY it or hire a professional). However, if a book needs to compete with bestsellers, or if it is a business leaver, the quality of the typesetting is highly important. Compare the book’s appearance as if it was meant to mirror the author.  If a book is put together messily without following any set rules, this reflects back onto the author. This is why it is always important to have professionals assist you with this.

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3. How to typeset a book

Modern typesetting should be done in software that is made for professional trade publishing. Many authors make the mistake of thinking manuscripts can easily be typeset in Microsoft Word then converted to a PDF file, but this is not the case. While manuscripts are written in Word, typesetters do not use Word to do typesetting. Instead, they use the content provided in the document to craft the book’s interior layout in dedicated design software. It’s impossible to follow the rules of typesetting in a Word document, and trying to do so would make an unreadable book.

There are many design software applications that are available for use, however, it is always best to work with a trusted and professional provider. At Green Hill, we can professionally typeset your book ready for trade.

If you are looking to DIY, you must have a clear understanding of the software available and how professional typesetting is done.

Below are some examples of typesetting software applications that can be useful:

    • Adobe Suite: Adobe has software that professional designers use. Although it is accessible, you need to know how to use the applications. There is also a monthly subscription.
    • Microsoft Suite: This is one of the least powerful tools. However, you can build a book via the booklet layout. There is also a monthly subscription.

It is important to understand that typesetters know how to do the work. Hiring a professional is always the best step forward. Doing so will ensure there are no errors in your book before you print.

3.1 Preparing for typesetting

When it comes to preparing for typesetting, there are a few things that need to be considered:

    1. How do you want the book to be laid out? Whether you are having a book professionally typeset or if you are going to format yourself, you need to decide on your book’s the design and structure.
    2. Consider what fonts would suit your book and assess their readability.
    3. Find a typesetter who uses a professional software or choose a typesetting software that is reliable. Consider the spacing of lines and paragraphs to assist with readability.
    4. Decide if you need images or other visual elements in the interior of your book. Make sure these graphics are in appropriate spaces and don’t disrupt the manuscript’s readability.
    5. Make sure the manuscript is completed to the best of your ability before starting the typesetting process.
    6. Take time going over the typeset PDF.
    7. Get a physical print-proof of the book to test out readability and adjust any minor issues before finalising publishing and/or printing.

A good typesetter or publisher will guide you through the typesetting process and do the harder elements for you. Contact us to discuss the typesetting process and how Green Hill can help.

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4. How to find a typesetter

Finding a professional typesetter is very important as typesetting follows a strict set of rules to produce a professional product.

When choosing a typesetter, it is important to consider the following:

    • Find a typesetter who has worked on similar genres of books to yours. Finding someone who is familiar with layouts of similar books is important.
    • Before a final decision, ensure you see examples of the typesetter’s work. This is so you know what to expect as an end product and can facilitate an informed decision.
    • Look at the examples the typesetter has given in the eyes of a reader. Are there any inconsistences? Is it clear and easy to follow?
    • Educate yourself on the typesetting process. The more you learn the more you’ll be able to identify good work.

4.1 Where to find a typesetter?

There are freelance websites which advertise typesetters who can assist with projects, but there is a high probability that they aren’t “professionals”. It is always better to find a professional via a publishing company or a dedicated typesetting company.

If you are looking for quality typesetting, Green Hill can help! We include a professional typesetting service in all our packages. Not only would you have your book professionally typeset, we can set you up for the full publishing journey. This looks different for each author, but can include editing, illustration work, distribution, and print!

Contact us today to find out more.

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5. Do I need typesetting for an eBook?

EBooks can be developed in a number of ways, from converting Word files to a PDF, to using eBook conversion tools. However, these ways can introduce areas of concern. You do not want your book to look like a PDF file.

However, when it comes to a professionally produced eBook, the bottom line is: Yes. All versions of books should be typeset.

You want your digital book to read and feel as similar to a print book as possible, so all of the rules need to be applied. Having a well-designed and professionally typeset eBook can approve the reliability of the book, making it easier on the readers eyes, and enhance the overall appearance of the book in the long run and in turn make your eBook more marketable.

Fixed-format eBooks

A fixed-format eBook is designed to retain the original layout, format, and image placement over a variety of different devices and eBook platforms. Fixed-format eBooks are produced to be viewed in a specific way with a layout that takes into account the exact font sizes, images, and page breaks. This type of eBook is commonly used for children’s books, cookbooks, and any other book which has a visual element as the presentation of the book is extremely important. Fixed-format eBooks allow the author and book designer to have complete control on how they look, right down to every page.

Reflowable eBooks

A reflowable eBook can adjust its text and layout based on the size, orientation, and type of device or reading platform that is being used. The purpose of a reflowable eBook is to be as flexible as it can and allow the file to adjust based on the individual specifications of the book. These eBooks can be read on a variety of platforms, from smartphones to tablets and e-Readers. These eBooks are mostly commonly used for books with long forms of text, such as novels or other text-based content. EBooks formatted this way are typically not as interactive as reflowable eBooks compared to fixed-format eBooks.

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Examples of good typesetting

Typesetting is one of the most important factors of creating a publishable book. Here at Green Hill, we have the typesetting skills and knowledge to give you design direction for your book specifically.

Below are some examples of different types of typesetting that Green Hill have produced.

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kampong boy interior example recipe cover sashi cheliah self-published
kampong boy interior example recipe cover sashi cheliah self-published
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The Little Book of
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Does my title need a book index?

Does my title need a book index?

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Contents

1. What type of books require indexes?
2. Benefits of indexing a book
3. What are the different types of indexes?
4. What is an indexer’s role?
5. Green Hill’s book indexing methodology

Book indexing is a hot topic in the world of self-published books. Whether your book needs indexing is often dependant on factors like the genre and form, but there are other things to consider as well. Do you want to make your book look not self-published? If the answer to this question is yes, then indexing is likely for you.

Indexing takes effort. But it doesn’t have to be excessively expensive or time-consuming. The value an index will add to a book should not be underestimated. It should be considerd an investment in producing a good quality book.

1. What type of books require indexes?

The first question you need to ask yourself is what sort of book are you planning to publish and do those books usually have indexes?

If your book is fiction, then you won’t need an index. That’s because indexes are, at their most basic, navigation devices. While a work of fiction is read from front to back, non-fiction are often used as reference works where the reader will be wanting to find a specific piece of information on a specific topic.

Sometimes if a reference piece is only short, like Green Hill’s The Little Book of Big Publishing Tips, an index isn’t a requirement. Our book is just 8,000 words spread across eight chapters. The chapter names are unambiguous, so the contents page which includes sub-sections seems more than adequate.

These sorts of publications don’t need an index, but as a publication’s complexity increases with more detailed and complex content, an index becomes necessary. For long reference works with perhaps thousands of topics, an index is indispensable.

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2. Benefits of book indexing

Indexing a book is useful. A quality index provides readers, publishers, and authors many benefits:

  1. Professionalism: An indexed book is seen as more professional and more authoritative. The information will be perceived as being put together with a structure.
  2. Improved Navigation: A well-indexed book allows readers to quickly find the information they need without having to search through the entire text. This can be especially helpful for readers who are using the book as a reference piece or are studying a specific topic. Indexes are like a maps, providing coordinates of how a reader can travel to the information they need.
    Indexing a book helps readers navigate to information - its like a map

    Indexing a book helps readers navigate to information – it’s like a map

  3. Increased Accessibility: An index can make a book more accessible to a wider audience by allowing readers to quickly and easily find the information they need.
  4. Marketing: An indexed book may be more appealing to potential readers and can help increase sales.

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3. What are the different types of indexes?

There are many sorts of indexes used across the information sphere. For example, a library will have a catalogue which is ever-growing to accommodate new content.

A ‘back-of-book’ index deals with a single published work rather than the corpus or the total of all produced/written works. A ‘back-of-the-book’ index identifies all significant major and minor topics.

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4. What is an indexer’s role?

An indexer is a publishing professional who specialises in producing indexes for books. Indexing can be technical, so employing a professional indexer is the best way to produce a quality outcome.

The indexer’s task is to analyse concepts, principles, events, and people in the text of a book and to produce a series of headings with referenced page numbers.

These headings should:

  • group like-information together that is often dispersed through the book
  • establish relationships between concepts

Books that have complicated information might need both a main entry and subentries. But even for the most complicated books, subentries within subentries should be avoided as they create cognitive difficulty for readers.

Green Hill has two highly proficient indexers. They are incredible and their fees may be quite a bit less than you think. Enquire with us today to get a quote on your indexing project.

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5. Green Hill’s book indexing methodology

Green Hill is a technologically agile new-breed publishing company. This means we are committed to automation. We often describe Green Hill as a book factory staffed by artisans. This means if we can automate any process without a reduction in quality we will.  Elon Musk, the owner of Tesla is famous for saying “first I see if we can automate, second I see if we can eliminate” (paraphrase) any process.

Often automated indexing is an increase in quality because it removes potential for human error.

While totally ‘automatic’ generation of an index is still a little way off (see artificial intelligence) – it still needs human judgement, part automation has long been a reality.

When you publish a book through Green Hill we can show you how to implement embedded indexing (EI). This technique is where hidden text is input into a document identifying concepts, terms, people and places to be included in an index.

As a self-published author this is an ideal way to generate a powerful index without the expense of using an indexer.

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The Little Book of
Big Publishing Tips.

 

In just a quick 8,000 words, this little book will equip you with the knowledge you need to successfully publish your book.

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Book editing for self-publishing in Australia

Book editing for self-publishing in Australia

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Contents

1. What is editing for self-publishing books in Australia?
2. Development/Structural editing for self-published books in Australia
3. Copy editing for self-published books in Australia
4. Proofreading for self-published books in Australia
5. What is good editing?
6. How self-published authors can find an editor in Australia
7. When should a self-published author start to edit their book?
8. Can a self-published author edit their own book?
9. Conclusion

Whether self-publishing or traditionally publishing, editing is extremely important to your book’s success.

1. What is editing for self-published books in Australia?

The process of editing is revising and/or correcting written content (like your manuscript) to improve the quality, accuracy, and readability of the text. This can include grammar, punctuation, structure of the content, and fact-checking.Every self-published author in Australian needs a great editor

Editing a book can take place at various stages in the publishing process, including before sending your book to a publisher and after the manuscript has been accepted. However, editing needs to be completed before any final changes have been made to files and before printing is organised.

There are different types of book editing depending on the state of the manuscript.

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2. Development/Structural editing for self-publishing in Australia

Structural editing focuses on the overall structure and organisation of the manuscript. For this reason, it is an in-depth form of editing which involves looking at the bigger picture and making recommendations on how to improve the overall flow, pacing, and coherency of the story.

A structural editor will examine whole manuscript and address things like:

  • The overall plot and the development of the manuscript.
  • Character development and how the characters are portrayed.
  • Pacing and how well the story flows.
  • Themes and how they are explored.
  • Style and the tone of the manuscript.
  • Dialogue and how it is written.

Following the observations that the editor has made, suggestions will be provided on how to improve the manuscript. This can include cutting out unnecessary scenes and dialogue, moving parts of the story around, adding new scenes, and much more. The editor’s goal in structural editing is to assist the author to create a cohesive, well-structured, and engaging story that will appeal to many readers.

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3. Copy editing self-published books Australia

Copy editing focuses on the fine details of a manuscript, such as grammar, punctuation, spelling, and consistency. Generally, the goal of copy editing is to ensure the manuscript is error free and easy for a reader to follow.

A copy editor will:

  • Review your manuscript for any errors in grammar, punctuation, and spelling.
  • Check for consistency in both the style and formatting of your text.
  • Ensure that your manuscript adheres to the specific style guide or house style that your publisher provides.
  • Fact-check your manuscript.

Copy editing is completed after manuscript structural editing, but before proofing, typesetting, and printing. It helps to ensure that the manuscript is polished before it gets into the hands of readers! The editor will work with the author to make sure the manuscript is clear, concise, and error-free.

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4. Proofreading for self-published books in Australia

Typically, proofreading is the final stage of the editing process. This is because it focuses on catching any remaining errors to polish up the manuscript for publishing. The goal of proofreading is the ensure the manuscript is as error-free as possible and that it presents well for readers.

During proofreading , the editor will:

  • Comb through your manuscript for remaining spelling, grammar, and punctuation errors.
  • Re-check for consistency in style and formatting.
  • Ensure that the manuscript sticks to the specific style guide or house style of your publisher.
  • Check for and fix any typographical errors.
  • Polish the manuscript for consistency, such as numbering, headings, and cross-references.

Normally, proofreading is done once the manuscript has been copyedited. The editor will review the manuscript one final time, looking for minor errors that may have slipped through. With this in mind, proofreading should be done on the final manuscript, i.e. the version intended to be published.

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5. What is good editing?

Good editing is the process of improving the overall quality and accuracy of a manuscript to ensure it is not only clear, cohesive, but also engaging for the intended audience.

A good editor will:

  • Pay attention to detail: Carefully looking through the manuscript to catch any errors (such as grammar, punctuation, spelling, and consistency).
  • Look for clarity and coherence: Ensure the manuscript is easy to understand, has a clear and consistent flow of scenes, and is well organised.
  • Edit with honesty and objectivity: Provide honest and objective feedback on the manuscript, point out areas for improvement, and offer suggestions on how to make the manuscript stronger.
  • Respect the authors voice: Improve the manuscript without changing the authors style, tone, or voice.
  • Meet the needs of the intended audience: Make sure that the book’s language, structure, and form is suitable for its intended audience.

Good editing is a collaborative process between the editor and author where the editor provides feedback and suggestions to help the author make the manuscript as good as it can be, while keeping the author’s voice and style intact.

If you are looking for an editor, Green Hill recommends contacting our editing partner Bookmark Edits

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6. How self-published authors can find an editor in Australia

Green Hill Publishing can help you find an editor to suit your needs through our editing partner, Bookmark Edits.

However, if you would like to search around to find your own editor, below are some tips on how to choose one suited to your project:

  1. Get referrals: Ask your friends, colleagues, or other authors for recommendations. Someone you know may have worked with an editor in the past that they would recommend.
  2. Check online: Use online search engines such as Google to find editors in your area or with experience in your genre. It is also a great idea to look the Institute of Professional Editors website.
  3. Use editing platforms: There are a number of online platforms that help authors connect with editors. Try a website such as Reedsy.
  4. Self-edit: Take some time editing your book yourself.

When looking for an editor, it is important to consider the editor’s experience and qualifications.

It is always a good idea to get a sample of editing to ensure you’re happy with the quality of work before you go any further. It is also good to talk with the editor to make sure you are comfortable with them. Ask questions about their editing processes, experience, and pricing before you make a decision.

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7. When should a self-published author start to edit their book?

The best time to edit your book depends on a variety of factors, such as your writing process and personal preferences.

However, there are a few guidelines which can help you decide on when to begin the editing process.

  1. Wait until the first draft is complete: Most writers find it helpful to wait until the first draft of the manuscript is completed before editing begins. This means a full run through of the manuscript can be done and allows the author to focus on getting their thoughts and ideas down without worrying about changes or revisions needing to be made.
  2. Set a deadline: Give your self a firm deadline to finish the first draft of your manuscript and schedule a specific date to start the editing.
  3. Take breaks: After you’ve been writing for a certain amount of time, you should take a break. This will give you a chance to step away from the manuscript and come back to it with fresh, clear eyes.
  4. Edit as you go: Some authors prefer to edit the manuscript as they are plodding along, making revisions and changes as they write. This can help keep the manuscript focused and on track.

Ultimately, the best time to start editing your manuscript is when you feel that you are ready. This will vary depending on each writer, but it is important to make sure you take the time to revise and edit your manuscript so it’s the best it can be. It is also important to make sure you are giving your publisher the final manuscript before any design or typesetting takes place.

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8. How can a self-published author edit their own book?

Self-editing your book can be a challenging process, but it can also be rewarding. Below are some tips we’ve put together to help you ensure you have self-edited your book effectively:

  • Take a break: Before you begin editing your manuscript, make sure you put your manuscript away for a few weeks or more. This will help you come back to it with fresh eyes and a clear mind.
  • Read your manuscript aloud: Reading your manuscript aloud can help to catch errors in grammar, punctuation, and sentence structure that may not be noticed when reading silently.
  • Ensure consistency: Make sure your manuscript’s style, tone, and point of view is consistent. It’s also important to check that characters are consistent, too, and that their actions, thoughts, and words make sense with their personalities.
  • Inspect your manuscript for plot holes: Make sure the plot of your book is logical and that there are no inconsistences or holes.
  • Check for pacing: Make sure that the pacing of your manuscript is appropriate. A book that is too slow can be boring for a reader, while one that is too fast can leave the reader lost.
  • Cut unnecessary words, sentences, and scenes: Be ruthless in cutting unnecessary words, sentences, and scenes that do not enhance the story, plot, and characters.
  • Get feedback: Share your manuscript with friends, family, or beta readers to get some feedback. This can help identify areas needing some work that you as the author can’t see.
  • Consider hiring a professional editor: It’s always good to have a professional set of eyes on your manuscript. This will give you more confidence in your manuscript and ensure there are no errors. Reach out to our editing partner, Bookmark Edits, for this step!

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9. Conclusion

Editing is one of the most important things when it comes to publishing your book. You need to be confident in the work that is being put out into the world, and the work needs to be polished and final before being released. There are many different types of editing to consider. The one you need varies from author to author as it depends on what your needs and wants are when it comes to your manuscript. It is important that, when beginning to edit your book, the manuscript is the final draft.

Remember: editing is a useful tool, and any feedback is useful and may lead to the success of your book. Finding an editor that suits your writing style, genre, and needs is important, too.

Here at Green Hill Publishing, we have a fantastic editing partner who will help you find the perfect editor for your manuscript. Bookmark Edits provides our authors with great service and a quality product. Reach out to us if you have any questions or if would like more information on how to contact our editing partner.

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The page you requested could not be found. Try refining your search, or use the navigation above to locate the post.

Interested in publishing your book but unsure where to start or what is even involved? Tell us about your project and we will post you a copy of our:

 

The Little Book of
Big Publishing Tips.

 

In just a quick 8,000 words, this little book will equip you with the knowledge you need to successfully publish your book.

The Little Book of Big Publishing tips goes into the essentials of self-publishing a book, outlining the business and financial side of publishing, legal issues, design, editing, sales and marketing. There's even a section on how to identify a vanity-publishing scam.

submit your project details