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What formatting to use for a novel?
I need help! I am wondering what formatting to use for my novel. I've been checking this out on the Internet, hoping to find some nice images of what to put in the 'page layout' boxes in a Microsoft Word document (margins, headers and footers, font size, paragraphs, line spacing etc) but it is all rather confusing. I am writing for the UK market and there are lots of samples of formatting online but mainly for the American market. Soooo if any of you more experienced, talented people out there could assist with this, I would be eternally grateful (maybe eternally's a little bit OTT - but you get my meaning.) Thanks - Isabella
Comments
Formatting for a 6x9 inch book
Top 1.75
Bottom 1.75
Left 1.88
Right 1.88
Header 1.50
Footer 1.50
Gutter 0.13
I am wondering if there is a standard set up? I am only 20,000 words into my novel but I think it would be easier to start the layout format now if possible. Your help is much appreciated.
I would focus on finishing the book. Once you've done that you will need to edit and edit and edit. Worry about the page size when the manuscript's ready.
Later on in the process, formatting it will be useful - because of the distance you mention.
If you want to format anything, keep the working text, chapter headings and all, using the same paragraph settings (font; size; space before and after paras; etc.) throughout the drafting stage. This will make it easier to format the text later.