With the increasing availability and acceptance of e-readers, electronic self-publishing of fiction is a growing avenue for writers to pursue. If you would like to offer your readers the option of downloading a PDF of your novel (or just an excerpt) you may want to format a version to suit e-readers. The most common screen display size is 6 inches diagonal (152mm). This equates to roughly 3 inches by 5 inches (82mm by 120mm). Most e-readers are able to adjust, though, to suit a variety of page sizes and font and spacing options, so keep it straightforward and uncluttered. Word 2007: Page Layout Tab, Size, More Page Sizes...  Enter new width and height values under “ Paper Size ” in the Page Setup Dialog Box (Paper tab). Word 2003: File, Page Setup, Paper Tab Margins With such a small page area you will need to adjust the margins to allow more room for the text. Word 2007: An easy option is to select Narrow Margins from the Margins drop-down menu. Or sele...

By Scott Nicholson If I can’t talk you out of self-publishing, the least I can do is get you thinking like a pro. Because once you decide to become a publisher, you have no more excuses and no one to blame but yourself. You have just promoted yourself to executive editor, CEO, sales rep, publicist, accountant, and copy clerk. The first step is finding quality editing, either through the fine professionals here at Blood Red Pencil or highly skilled friends. If you’re going to use peer editors, I’d recommend at least three different readers, but one experienced person should give it a thorough final edit. Usually, you come up with not only a better book but better writing skills for a lifetime. While the book’s out for edits, you’ll want to round up cover art. I have been using Neil Jackson at Ghostwriter Publications , and we have a trade arrangement where I format his e-books for design work. He does some covers for hire so you can check with him, and there are a number of other ...