If you want your book to be a success, then you need to make sure that the layout is engaging and inviting. It can affect everything from the initial impression your book makes on a potential reader to how easy it is to read and navigate.
A well-designed book layout can make all the difference in whether or not your book is successful. The way your book is laid out can either encourage readers to keep going or cause them to lose interest in your book and put it down.
Here are those 7 ways you can make your book layout attractive for readers.
1. Stick to a Standard Font Type and Size
Using a standard font type and size throughout your book will make it more readable and easier on the eyes. It will also ensure that your book is correctly formatted for printing when it comes to book publishing.
There are a variety of fonts that you can use for your book, but some of the most popular options used in bestselling books include Times New Roman, Arial, and Georgia. Once you’ve selected a font, be sure to use it consistently throughout your book.
Inconsistent use of font types and sizes can be jarring for readers and make your book look amateurish.
2. Pick a Standard Size for Your Book
The physical size or trim size of your book does matter in catching readers’ attention, so it’s best to pick the right size that fits your genre. There are three standard book sizes according to publishers, including 5”x8”, 5.5”x8.5”, and 6”x9”. The choice will be based on the total word count of your book.
For example, a smaller book is often more affordable to produce and can be more convenient for readers to carry around if it has a low word count. A larger book with more word count, on the other hand, can make a statement and give your book a luxurious feel.
Ultimately, the best way to improve the layout of your book is to choose a size that will work well for your specific book. So, take some time to consider all of your options and discuss with your editor and or avail of the services of typesetters to pick the right trim size for your book.
3. Use Enough White Space
White space is the area of your page that is not occupied by text or images. It is the space between the lines of text, the margins, and the gutters. Using white space effectively can make your book more readable and visually appealing. It can also help to add emphasis to certain elements on the page.
When it comes to the layout of your book, don’t be afraid to use white space to your advantage. A little bit of white space can go a long way in making your book more enjoyable to read. Plus, using white space effectively can also help to highlight important information and make your book more visually appealing.
4. Use Margins and Text Alignment Wisely
Most books are designed with the reader in mind. But what about the author? The layout of your book can actually have a big impact on how easy it is for you to write and edit your work.
Margins and text alignment are two important aspects of book design that can make a big difference in your writing process. By using margins wisely, you can create more space on the page, which can make writing and editing easier.
And by aligning your text properly, you can make sure that your book looks neat and organized, with every bit of information listed carefully in a place where it looks good.
5. Incorporate Navigation Through Your Headers and Footers
By utilizing the space at the top and bottom of your pages, you can help readers move more easily through your book. Headers and footers can be used to provide links to other parts of your book, such as the table of contents, glossary, or index.
You can also use them to give readers additional information about your book, such as the author, illustrator, or publisher. You can also add page numbers and chapter numbers in the header or footer to make the navigation easy for your readers.
By doing this, you’ll make it easy for readers to find their way around your book, and they’ll be less likely to get lost or frustrated.
6. Use Pull Quotes
If you’re looking for a quick and easy way to improve the layout of your book, then you should definitely consider using pull quotes. Pull quotes are a great way to break up large chunks of text and add visual interest to your pages. Plus, they can be used to highlight key passages or quote famous authors.
So, the question is, how do you use pull quotes effectively? There are a few tips, including:
- Use short, punchy quotes that capture the essence of your book.
- Place pull quotes in strategic locations, such as at the beginning of a chapter or after a particularly dense section of text.
- Make sure your pull quotes are properly formatted and easy to read.
- Use pull quotes sparingly because too many of them can make your book look cluttered and busy.
7. Choose Proper Word and Line Spacing
Word and Line spacing will make your book more readable and easier on the eyes. It is also a good idea to increase the margins. Doing this will give your book a cleaner and more professional look.
Here are a few tips on how to choose the right word and character spacing for your book:
- Use a readable font for your body text. This will make it easier to read.
- Use a larger font size for your headings and subheadings. This will help to break up your text and make it easier to read.
- Increase the spacing between your lines of text. This will help to prevent your readers from getting tired eyes.
- Use a smaller font size for your footnotes and endnotes. This will make them easier to read while still being unobtrusive.
