How to convert Word file of your book into a perfect pdf for paperback printing

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book formatting, book writing ideas, how to convert 8.5 x 5.5 Word file to pdf, how to convert MS Word to pdf, indie authors, paperback writing and formatting tips, tips for Indie authors

Alas! Indie authors have to be master of all trades.

Penning a damn good story is the mere tip of the iceberg. You wrote it in MS Word – and now want it reproduced into a gorgeous pdf for a gorgeous paperback, right? But what if the pdf looks weirdly crowded and untidy as compared to your elegant MS Word?

Well, you can either create a pdf & then play around with it (If there does exist such a software, I’m blissfully unaware of it)  OR (more easily) convert the Word doc into pdf, which is what I did for my ‘Rage of the Maggots’.

Here’s how the stunningly simple procedure goes –

1] First format your text in MS Word as per your desired trim size. I have an unexplained, irrational, insistent love for 8.5 x 5.5 inch size. So, select Layout … Click on Size … Select from the wide range of size menu .

2] Next, click on File … Select ‘Save as’ from dropdown menu

3] Select option ‘Save as pdf’, then click on ‘More options’

4] You’ll see 2 options – Standard i.e for publishing online and printing AND Minimum size.

Choosing the latter will condense the Word file. Result? Your lovingly formatted Word file will now condensed and short by at least 5 pages.

If you want it to look EXACTLY as your Word file, choose option ‘Standard – publishing and printing’.

5] Click ‘Save’. Done! Drool over your picture perfect pdf!

Go ahead. Experiment. Your paperback is now fully in your control.