Gone are the days when self-publishing was scoffed at because it was believed to be the simplest alternative to an impatient or rejected author who wants to bypass traditional publishing processes.

Instead, there is an era where authors take charge of what they would often consider their “babies,” “pride and joy,” “glory,” and more. Would you think that these authors will undermine the management of their precious? While traditional publishing will limit authors’ views on certain aspects of their books, independent publishing is a calling and a commitment to excellence in publishing, cover design, and more. On the other hand, most of the authors are artists and fewer business people. Their works are manifestation, often revelation and extension of who they are as individuals. Because of this momentum, readers can expect a work of art that goes beyond the mediocrity of a real author…a self-published author.

I have recently joined the rostrum of authors who have opted for the path of independent publication. By independent publishing, we can categorize it through print books and e-books. In this article, I would like to talk about ebook platform and publishing.

Contrary to what others may think, self-publishing is not an easier route. In fact, it can be a daunting journey if one focuses on the “alone” aspect. However, it is also a great and rewarding experience. When one has conquered the first step, going up the other levels is like opening a gift wrapped in different wrappers, cajoling and intriguing to mystery, joy and fulfillment.

The first step a freelance book author will take when ready to publish is to format their manuscript suitable for desktop publishing. And here lies the encounter of a caveman who has been exposed to the light for the first time. While you thought you had your manuscript done and polished, you are faced with seeing in your reader preview that your baby is far from excellent.

Let me introduce you to your best friend – the best tool you can’t do without when formatting. This little sign on your toolbar that looks like an upside down P that you hadn’t even thought of will come in handy. (This is only for authors using Microsoft Word.)

Click on it and you will start to see the skeleton of what you have done so far. This is the pilcrow, your best editing partner for Word. You’ll see the paragraph type, layout, fonts, tab stops, and spacing you’ve used in your manuscript. The automated platform will not see your manuscript from your point of view. But opening the pillow will make you see and help you turn your work into a work of art.

Stay tuned for more of these techniques in separate posts.