Typography for a book?

Question

I know this must vary based on preference. I haven't gone to school for writing but regardless have started writing a book. I have a few chapters done, and need to start format and editing it.Should the spacing be 1, 1.5 or 2? I am using Times New Roman as the font for text which is pretty standard.Right now the font size is set on 12. But, is that what I should be using? Also, the width setting? Right now it's whatever the standard is on windows word but should I change the width parameters?I thank you in advance for whatever guidance you can offer me.

Answer 1

Typically you'll go for whatever the default margin is that Word provides for your **trim size** which means do you want the book to actually print as 8 1/2 x 11 or 6x9 or 5x8? So the size of your book has some inherent defaults. I have been feverishly formatting manuscripts for over a year, so if you need some more help, please let me know!

Answer 2

It is standard practice to follow the guidelines set forth by the Modern Language Association (MLA). Generally, this calls for one-inch margins all around, Times New Roman font, double (2) spacing, and indenting each new paragraph by 5 spaces. For more on MLA and formatting in general, good Purdue University's OWL website (Online Writing Lab). It's a great resource! Good luck!