The Art of Style and Design For Editors and Authors

By Steve Taylor

"The Art of Style and Design for Editors and Authors" by Steve Taylor is a comprehensive guide delving into the nuances of manuscript preparation and editing. The book covers a range of topics including typesetting, readability, grammar, punctuation, documentation styles, tables and figures, book design, proofreading, and the legal aspects of publishing like rights and permissions. Each chapter offers practical insights and examples, making complex concepts accessible to both new and seasoned writers in technical and academic fields. It serves as an essential resource for enhancing the clarity, coherence, and visual appeal of written works.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Steve Taylor
• Release date: Dec 10, 2023
• ISBN: 9798223106166

Book preview

The Art of Style and Design For Editors and Authors

Steve Taylor

STCNC

Contents

Copyrights

1.Chapter 1: Manuscript Preparation and Manuscript Editing

2.Chapter 2: Style and Usage

3.Chapter 3: Documentation I: Notes and Bibliography

4.Chapter 4: Documentation II: Author-Date References

5.Chapter 5: Tables and Figures

6.Chapter 6: Indexes

7.Chapter 7: Book Design and Production

8.Chapter 8: Proofreading

9.Chapter 9: Rights and Permissions

10.Chapter 10: Grammar and Punctuation

11. Ten Reference Manuals

12.The Role of AI in Editing and Proofreading

13.Top Ten Books on Cover Design and Editing

Copyright © 2023 by Steve Taylor

All rights reserved.

No part of this publication may be reproduced, distributed, or transmitted in any form or by any means, including photocopying, recording, or other electronic or mechanical methods, without the prior written permission of the publisher, except as permitted by U.S. copyright law. For permission requests, contact [include publisher/author contact info].

The story, all names, characters, and incidents portrayed in this production are fictitious. No identification with actual persons (living or deceased), places, buildings, and products is intended or should be inferred.

Book Cover by Steve Taylor

Illustrations bySteve Taylor

[Edition Number 1] edition [2023]

Chapter 1: Manuscript Preparation and Manuscript Editing

Introduction

In the realm of writing, the journey from a nascent idea to a polished manuscript is both an art and a science. This chapter delves into the foundational aspects of manuscript preparation and editing, guiding you through the labyrinth of typesetting, layout, and design considerations. As an experienced writer in the technical manual sector, I aim to illuminate these processes, making them not only lucid and informative but also engaging and insightful.

The Art of Typesetting

The Essence of Readability

Use a clear, readable font for manuscript preparation. This maxim underpins the art of typesetting. The choice of font is more than an aesthetic decision; it's about readability. Sans-serif fonts like Arial or Calibri are often preferred for their clarity, especially in digital formats. However, for printed manuscripts, serif fonts like Times New Roman or Garamond are favored due to their structured style, which eases the reading process.

Balancing Font Sizes and Styles

The hierarchy of information is often communicated through variations in font size and style. For instance, chapter titles might be in a larger font size, bolded, and possibly even in a different typeface to distinguish them from the main text. Subheadings may follow suit but in a subtler manner. This hierarchical structuring aids in guiding the reader's journey through the manuscript.

Layout Considerations

Consistent Headings and Subheadings

Consistency is key in headings and subheadings formatting. Consistency