Book and long-document formatting for authors

Self-published authors, coaches with workbooks, small publishers, researchers and organizations producing long reports or guides.

Fixed package prices per book, often based on page count and number of images, plus extras such as e-book conversion or revisions.

• Layout software such as InDesign, Affinity Publisher or Vellum
• Knowledge of print-on-demand and e-book file specs
• Attention to detail and consistent styling
• Working with clients remotely

• Printer and platform specs change, so check the current requirements before delivering files
• Make clear in your contract that the client is responsible for the content and for rights to text and images
• Check whether your state taxes digital services and whether you need a local business license
• Set limits on revision rounds to avoid endless changes
• Consider professional liability insurance

Startup costs are typically around $200 to $2,000, depending on your layout software, fonts and any file-checking tools. Many people begin with a computer they already own. These are estimates, so check software pricing.

Monthly revenue is typically estimated around $400 to $3,500, depending on how many books or documents you format, your rates and how many revision rounds you allow. This is revenue before software and tax costs.

Check current printer and platform specs before delivering files, and state in your contract that clients are responsible for content and rights to text and images. Also check whether your state taxes digital services, and whether you need a local business license.