Every author knows that writing a book is just one part of the job. Once your story is ready, you still need to format it before publishing. Here comes the book formatting software. But what exactly is book formatting software? Why do you need it? Let's dive in!
What is Book Formatting Software?
Book formatting software is a tool. It helps to prepare the book for printing or publishing online. It is a method of aligning your text and images in a clean and professional form if you are publishing either a print book or an eBook. Rather than spending hundreds of hours doing it manually, you now make formatting fast and easy with the help of book formatting software.
Why Do Authors Need Book Formatting Software?
Can you imagine reading a book full of incoherent paragraphs, uneven spaces, or the wrong type of font? Not much fun, is it? A well-formatted book reads cleanly and smoothly. Such formatting is quite important for the reader and can make your book look more professional.
If you want to publish on Amazon Kindle, Barnes & Noble, or even print it, the right formatting will do all this. Book formatting software does all this tough work to make your book shine in its best form.
Top Best Book Formatting Software for Authors in 2024
Let's talk about the best book formatting software that you can use this 2024. Each offers unique features to help you make a beautifully formatted book without much hassle.
1. Scrivener
Why Authors Love it
Scrivener is one of the best writing and formatting software. Even though it is more or less a writing tool, book formatting can be taken care of too. You can therefore use Scrivener to categorize your chapters, add images, and export your book in various formats (like PDF or ePub for eBooks). If you prefer a fully-rounded tool for both writing and formatting, Scrivener will cut.
Perfect For: Writers who wish to keep everything in one place and format their book as they write.
2. Vellum
Why Authors Love it
Vellum is absolutely a favorite for self-published authors due to the ease and professionalism in making book formatting. All you have to do is import your manuscript, then select your preferred style, and Vellum takes it from there. It gives clean designs that are elegant for print as well as eBooks, though it requires a Mac computer.
Perfect For: Authors looking for an easy user interface to design professional-looking eBooks and print-ready books.
3. Reedsy Book Editor
Why Authors Love it
Reedsy's Book Editor is a free, online authoring tool. Format your manuscript straight in your browser. Export it to ePub and PDF. Simple results- pro-grade- the option for those authors who wouldn't want to install anything on their computers
Perfect For: Authors looking for a free, easy-to-use formatting tool that doesn't need to download anything
4. Atticus
Why Authors Love it
Atticus is pretty new in the market, yet it's gaining much love among many authors. It works well with both Mac and Windows, hence writers can write, edit, and format their book in one single place. Super alternative for Vellum in case one uses Windows with a customized formatting option to help have a stand-alone book.
Perfect For: Authors who need a single-stop writing and formatting solution compatible with both Mac and Windows.
5. Adobe InDesign
Why Authors Love it
The author would want to have full control over every detail of the layout in their book, this one is very powerful. Book designers often use Adobe InDesign, and it has high-end possibilities for customizations, though it has a steep learning curve.
Perfect For: More experienced authors who would have already tried design software.
How to Select the Right Book Formatting Software
Based on your needs, here are some of the top choices for you:
For Simplicity: If you want something quick and easy, Reedsy or Vellum might be the best option.
For all control: If you plan on designing every single page right down to the smallest detail in your book, then Adobe InDesign is what's at the top for you.
All-in-One Tools: Scrivener or Atticus is capable of helping you write as well as format your book in just one tool.
Conclusion
Book formatting is also an aspect that should not be missed in the publishing process. Use the best book formatting software to convert your manuscript into a very professionally-looking book.
Whether you are a new self-published author or a seasoned one, there is a solution that adapts to your needs. So try some and stick to the one that goes well with you in 2024.Now that you’re equipped with the knowledge of the best book formatting software, it’s time to take your writing project to the next level! If you’re ready to publish your book, check out Pen to Press Publication for expert guidance and professional publishing services.
By implementing these tips and tools, your book will not only captivate with its content but will look stunning on any platform. Start formatting today and give your manuscript the professional touch it deserves!
