Typesetting is a crucial stage in the book production process, transforming your original Word document into the final, professionally designed layout for print. It is a key step where the look and feel of your book are crafted, making it one of the most important parts of the publishing process.
True typesetting is both an art and a craft, working best when it goes unnoticed. Just like background music in a movie, typesetting serves to present clear, accessible text while enhancing the reader’s overall experience.
While some writers today bypass print publishing and go straight to e-books, many readers still prefer the tactile experience of a printed book. For many authors, there’s a sense of accomplishment in holding a physical copy. If you’re one of those writers, professional typesetting is a must to avoid a disappointing final product.
Why Not Use Microsoft Word?
It might be tempting to print and bind your Word document, but a book formatted this way will look like exactly that—a printed Word file. Word, while useful for writing, lacks the sophisticated design elements that professional typesetting software offers.
Word processing software evolved from the typewriter and was initially designed to mimic its look, including mono-spaced fonts where each character occupies the same space. Despite improvements, Microsoft Word still offers only basic control over essential aspects like spacing, kerning, tracking, hyphenation, and text justification.
The Power of Professional Typesetting
Modern typesetting software is derived from professional systems designed for high-quality book and magazine production. Unlike word processors, typesetting software gives you full control over text spacing, kerning, and tracking, ensuring a polished, professional appearance.
At Enhance Designs, we also use premium fonts—high-quality, specially encoded fonts designed for professional typesetting. These fonts are far superior to the standard “system fonts” included with most software packages.
The Art and Craft of Typesetting
Typesetting isn’t just about placing text on a page; it involves making artistic decisions and carefully balancing text with graphic elements. Skilled typesetters apply best practices, time-honored traditions, and specialized techniques to create a seamless, beautiful layout. While these details may go unnoticed, you’ll certainly notice when they’re missing or incorrectly applied.
In conclusion, if you want your book to have a professional finish that enhances the reader’s experience, typesetting is essential. It ensures your book not only reads well but also looks polished and visually appealing, making it stand out in today’s competitive market.