Ebook Formatting

The two main file formats are epub (Nook, iDevices, Kobo, Sony Reader) and mobi (Kindle). While many of the e-tail sites accept other formats, like Word documents or Adobe PDF files, oftentimes the output gets messed up when they convert it to an epub or mobi file--changed line spacing, loss of indents, and font modifications. To do the formatting yourself, you can use various software programs.

Freeware I use to format documents:

• Sigil -- A WYSIWYG ebook program designed to edit books in epub format.
• Calibre --  Popular ebook converter that supports all the major formats.

The software isn't fancy, but it works well. You'll have to fiddle with the programs to figure them out. There will be some frustrating times as you learn how to use them.

Here is my methodology for formatting:

I write using Microsoft Word, cut the text, and paste it into Sigil to get my epub version. Then I convert the epub version to mobi via Calibre. So I have an epub version for Nook, iPad, etc., and a mobi file for Kindle.

There are many ways to convert--and many converters. Here are two more:

• Mobipocket Creator -- Makes mobi files from HTML files or Word documents.
• eCub -- Creates epub files from text or XHTML files. Available to download for Macs and PC's.

Here's a link on how to create an epub file out of Apple's Pages software: TC Geek Blog.

Smashwords, a popular site for indie publishers, has an online conversion engine called "Meatgrinder" that accepts Microsoft Word documents and spits files out into any format you could ever need. Just realize that outputs will vary, and that you can't edit your files after conversion. Smashwords also offers a free Style Guide that gives tips on formatting. The founder, Mark Coker, is a champion of indie authors and is always working on improving his site. There are more details about the benefits of using Smashwords on the Distribution page.

For those who don't have the time or inclination to format ebooks on your own, you can pay someone to do it for you. Lucky Bat Books offers a range of services. Mark Coker at Smashwords has a list of people who you can hire to format your ebook. To receive it, send an email to list@smashwords.com and ask for "Mark's List" of low-cost formatters.

If you have another way of formatting that works best for you, please share it in the Forum.