Formatting Guidelines for eBooks - B&N Press

Jul 18, 2021
Articles

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Introduction

Welcome to Marjorie Cowley, your ultimate resource for all things related to arts, entertainment, books, and literature. In this article, we will provide you with comprehensive formatting guidelines for eBooks published through B&N Press at Barnes & Noble. By following these guidelines, you can ensure that your eBook meets the required standards and maximizes its potential.

Importance of Proper eBook Formatting

Formatting plays a crucial role in the success of your eBook. Not only does it enhance the overall reading experience for your audience, but it also ensures compatibility across various e-reader devices and platforms. With millions of eBooks available online, it is essential to stand out and provide a seamless reading experience to captivate your readers.

Formatting Guidelines

1. File Types

Before formatting your eBook, ensure that it is saved in a compatible file type. B&N Press accepts EPUB and PDF formats. EPUB is widely supported and allows for reflowable text, making it an ideal choice for most eBooks. In contrast, PDF files are suitable for fixed-layout books, such as illustrated children's books or graphic novels.

2. Text Formatting

When formatting your eBook's text, adhere to these guidelines:

  • Font: Use standard fonts like Arial, Times New Roman, or Georgia to ensure maximum readability across different devices.
  • Size: Opt for a font size between 10pt and 14pt, depending on the genre and target audience.
  • Line Spacing: Consider using a line spacing of 1.5 or 2 to improve readability.
  • Alignment: Justify the text for a clean and professional appearance.

3. Images and Graphics

Images and graphics can add visual appeal to your eBook. Follow these guidelines when including them:

  • Resolution: Ensure that images have a minimum resolution of 300dpi for optimal quality.
  • Format: Use JPEG or PNG formats for images, and SVG for scalable vector graphics.
  • Placement: Position images inline with the text, ensuring they fit well within the screen dimensions.
  • Captions and Descriptions: Provide concise captions or descriptions for each image to enhance accessibility.

4. Headings and Subheadings

Organize your eBook's content using appropriate headings and subheadings. Not only do they make your eBook more scannable for readers, but they also help search engines understand the structure and hierarchy of your content. Thus, incorporating relevant keywords in your headings can improve your eBook's discoverability.

5. Table of Contents

Include a comprehensive table of contents in your eBook, enabling readers to navigate through different sections easily. Ensure that each chapter or section is correctly labeled to provide a clear overview of the content covered.

6. Hyperlinks

If your eBook contains hyperlinks, make sure they are active and functioning properly. Double-check each link to avoid any broken or outdated references. Hyperlinks add value to your eBook by allowing readers to dive deeper into referenced materials or external resources.

7. Proofreading and Editing

Always proofread and edit your eBook before publishing. Grammatical errors, spelling mistakes, and formatting inconsistencies can negatively impact the reader's experience and credibility as an author. If possible, consider hiring a professional editor to ensure your eBook is polished and error-free.

Conclusion

By adhering to these formatting guidelines, your eBook published through B&N Press at Barnes & Noble will have a higher chance of success. Remember, a well-formatted eBook not only enhances the reading experience but also increases your chances of attracting and retaining a loyal readership. Ensure your content stands out and engages readers from the very first page. Start formatting your eBook today and unleash your creative potential!

References:

  • B&N Press Formatting Guidelines - Marjorie Cowley
  • Barnes & Noble - Self Publishing - Formatting Your eBook
  • Wikipedia - eBook Formats