Print on demand books
How does print-on-demand publishing work and which service is best?
Projekt-Plan
Why: Knowing your audience determines your book's tone, length, and price point.
How:
- Identify 3-5 'comp titles' (similar books) published in the last 2 years.
- Note their average page count and pricing.
- Write a one-sentence summary of who your ideal reader is.
Done when: You have a clear target reader profile and a list of 5 comparable books.
Why: Different services offer different royalties and distribution reaches.
How:
- Choose Amazon KDP if you want the highest royalties on Amazon (60%) and a free ISBN.
- Choose IngramSpark if you want your book available in physical bookstores and libraries worldwide.
- Choose Lulu for specialty formats like spiral binding or high-end photo books.
Done when: One primary platform is selected for the initial launch.
Why: Trim size affects printing costs and reader expectations.
How:
- Use 6 x 9 inches for standard non-fiction or trade paperbacks.
- Use 5.5 x 8.5 inches for memoirs or smaller novels.
- Use 8.5 x 11 inches for workbooks or manuals.
Done when: Final dimensions (e.g., 6x9) are decided.
Why: An outline prevents writer's block and ensures a logical flow.
How:
- Break your book into 10-15 chapters.
- Write 3 bullet points for each chapter describing the main events or arguments.
- Ensure each chapter transitions logically to the next.
Done when: A complete table of contents with chapter summaries exists.
Why: Consistency is the only way to finish a large writing project.
How:
- Schedule a 60-minute block at the same time every day.
- Use 'sprints' (25 mins writing, 5 mins break) to maintain focus.
- Do not edit while writing; focus purely on word count.
Done when: You have established a 7-day streak of hitting your word count.
Why: You cannot edit a blank page; getting the story down is the priority.
How:
- Follow your outline strictly to avoid wandering.
- Mark areas needing research with '[RESEARCH]' and keep writing.
- Aim for a total word count of 40,000 to 70,000 words for a standard book.
Done when: A full manuscript exists from introduction to conclusion.
Why: This stage fixes big-picture issues like plot holes or weak arguments.
How:
- Read the entire draft aloud to catch awkward phrasing.
- Check if every chapter serves the book's main goal.
- Cut repetitive sections or fluff that doesn't add value.
Done when: The manuscript's structure and flow are finalized.
Why: External readers spot issues you are too close to see.
How:
- Send the draft to 3 people who fit your target audience profile.
- Ask specific questions: 'Where did you get bored?' and 'What was confusing?'
- Give them a 2-week deadline for feedback.
Done when: You have received and reviewed feedback from 3 readers.
Why: Typos and grammar errors destroy author credibility.
How:
- Use a tool like Grammarly or ProWritingAid for an initial pass.
- Read the manuscript backward (last sentence to first) to catch spelling errors.
- Check for consistent formatting of names and terms.
Done when: A clean, error-free final manuscript file.
Why: POD printers require specific margins and gutter settings to ensure text isn't cut off.
How:
- Use Kindle Create (free) or Reedsy Book Editor (free) for easy formatting.
- Set 'Mirrored Margins' with a gutter of at least 0.125" for books over 100 pages.
- Ensure all fonts are embedded in the final PDF export.
Done when: A print-ready PDF of the interior is generated.
Why: The cover must be one continuous file; the spine width depends on your page count.
How:
- Use the formula: Page Count / PPI (Pages Per Inch).
- For KDP White Paper, PPI is 444. (e.g., 200 pages / 444 = 0.45 inches).
- Use the official KDP or IngramSpark cover calculator for exact dimensions.
Done when: You have the exact pixel or inch dimensions for your full cover.
Why: Readers judge books by their covers; it is your primary marketing tool.
How:
- Use Canva with a custom dimension matching your calculated cover size.
- Include a 0.125" bleed on all outer edges.
- Ensure the title is legible even as a small thumbnail.
Done when: A high-resolution (300 DPI) PDF cover file.
Why: Metadata (keywords and categories) helps readers find your book via search.
How:
- Log into your chosen POD platform (e.g., KDP).
- Enter your title, description, and 7 relevant keywords.
- Upload the interior PDF and cover PDF.
Done when: Files are uploaded and pass the automated 'Previewer' check.
Why: Digital previews can hide alignment issues or color shifts.
How:
- Select 'Order Proof' in the platform dashboard.
- Pay only the printing and shipping cost.
- Check for 'widows/orphans' (single lines at top/bottom of pages) and spine alignment.
Done when: You have held the physical book and approved its quality.
Why: This makes your book live on retail sites globally.
How:
- Confirm your worldwide rights and pricing.
- Click the 'Publish' button.
- Share the direct link with your email list or social media followers.
Done when: The book is 'Live' and purchasable on retail sites.