Start with one final manuscript
A clean manuscript gives the designer room to concentrate on the reading experience. Put the complete book in one clearly named document, including the title page, dedication, chapters and back matter. Keep an untouched copy of the version you send.
Finish your editorial changes before layout. Replacing a paragraph after pages have been designed can move a chapter opening, change the contents and alter the spine width. If a correction is still needed, collect it in one list rather than sending competing versions.
Show the structure, not a homemade page design
Use heading styles for chapter titles and subheadings. Start a chapter with a page break rather than a stack of empty lines. Avoid using spaces to align text. A simple, consistent manuscript is easier to interpret than a document full of improvised formatting.
Leave a note where a photograph, table or illustration belongs. Send original image files separately, with names that match those notes. Keep captions and credits with the manuscript so they are not lost.
Decide what kind of printed book you want
Choose the printer, binding, trim size, ink and paper before final layout. KDP’s available page counts depend on those choices. If art reaches the edge, the interior needs bleed; a bleed interior must be uploaded as a PDF. Use the current KDP submission requirements linked below.
Write a short production note: “Paperback, 6 × 9 inches, black ink, cream paper, no bleed” is much more useful than “standard paperback.” Confirm the exact option exists before settling on it.
Review the proof as a reader
Check chapter starts, page numbering, captions and the contents. Read a few pages at actual print size. Small type can look comfortable when a screen is zoomed in. After uploading, inspect the printer’s preview and order a physical proof before approving publication.
Our manuscript checklist helps collect the decisions. If you want us to handle the layout, send a brief with your word count and any images or unusual elements. You keep control of your publishing account and upload the finished files yourself.
Official references
Check the current requirements for your chosen edition before final export.