…So, let’s start with writing platforms –
Most of you are probably going to use Google Docs, Word, or Scrivener. I know there are other platforms out there, but these are ones I’ve used and that I get the most questions on.
Whatever platform you’re in, you’ll make your life much easier if you format a few things ahead of time.
The most important formatting to do is that when you start a new chapter, make sure to use the same header formatting for each chapter title. That’s so you or Amazon can create a table of contents from your chapter headings. If you insert a table of contents in Word, make sure you use a custom version without page numbers.
Scrivener is a little different. You can format your text on the screen to look however you want because when you compile your file for export, it formats it into a standard manuscript. So not something you have to worry about up front.
I do suggest that you use a different program to format the final product, so that you know it’s going to look good.
Now, you don’t have to worry about the font or the font size – considering that Kindle users can change that – but you do want to make sure your font is all the same. You also don’t have to worry about page numbering.
Personally, I’ve turned to Vellum to format all my ebooks and paperbacks. The nice thing is that Scrivener has a compile option specifically for Vellum.
So, here’s my whole process. When the novel is done, I compile a Word version for my review group, then go back into Scrivener to edit. Then when it’s done I compile a version for Vellum, and upload it to Vellum. Then that creates an ebook file (and a paperback).
Then in order to publish to Amazon I have a cover, I’ve done my keyword research, chosen my categories, and I’ve had my description or blurb finished. And then it’s ready to publish.
At one time I used other platforms like Draft 2 Digital to publish widely. But I found that I make more money from having my book in Kindle Select.
Show notes:
Scrivener: https://a.paddle.com/v2/click/49535/115755?link=1570
Vellum: https://a.paddle.com/v2/click/49674/115755?link=1775
Publish to Amazon at: https://kdp.amazon.com/en_US/
Draft2Digital: https://www.draft2digital.com/login/?next=/book/
Get Amy Rivers book, Stumble and Fall at her website. www.amyrivers.com