After Your Book is Formatted - Next Steps
Complete guide to what happens after you receive your formatted book files and how to move forward with publishing.
Congratulations! You've received your professionally formatted book files. This guide will walk you through what to do next, from reviewing your proof to publishing your book and everything in between.
1Your Delivered Files Explained
We provide a comprehensive set of files to meet all your publishing needs. Here's a breakdown of each file and its purpose:
Print-Ready PDF with Bleed
This is your print-ready PDF file, specifically prepared with bleeds. Bleeds are extra margins around your page content that extend beyond the trim size. This file is essential for professional printing, especially if your book has images or colors that extend to the edge of the page. Use this file for Amazon KDP (paperback/hardcover) and IngramSpark when your book design has elements that go to the edge of the page.
Print-Ready PDF without Bleed
This is your print-ready PDF file, prepared without bleeds. This version is suitable for books where all content (text, images) is contained within the safe margins and does not extend to the very edge of the page. Some printers or specific book types might prefer this version. Always check your chosen publisher's specifications carefully.
ePub eBook File
This is your reflowable eBook file. It's the standard format for most e-readers (like Apple Books, Kobo, Nook, and Google Play Books). Reflowable means the text adjusts to fit different screen sizes and user preferences (font size, line spacing). This file is crucial for digital distribution. Amazon KDP typically prefers MOBI or KPF, but ePub is often accepted and converted by their system.
Adobe InDesign File (Print)
This is the master InDesign project file for your print book. It contains the complete layout, fonts, images, and styling used to create your print-ready PDF. This file is provided for your records and for future professional edits or updates. It's not for direct upload to publishing platforms.
Adobe InDesign File (ePub)
This is the InDesign project file specifically tailored for your ePub eBook. It contains the layout and structure optimized for reflowable eBook conversion. Similar to the print InDesign file, this is for professional use or future updates. It's not for direct upload.
Proof Copy PDF
A review PDF with Adobe comments enabled so you can provide feedback directly on the pages
💡 Pro Tips
- For Amazon KDP Print: Use the PDF with bleed if you have images/design at edges, otherwise use without bleed
- For Amazon KDP Ebook: Upload the ePub file (KDP will convert it)
- For IngramSpark: Use the PDF with bleed (they require bleed for most books)
- For Apple Books/Kobo/Nook: Use the ePub file
- Keep InDesign files safe - you'll need them for future updates
- Download all files immediately and create backups
⚠️ Important
- Don't edit the PDF files yourself - they're print-ready and any changes may cause issues
- InDesign files require Adobe InDesign software to open
- Always match the bleed setting in KDP to the file you're uploading (check filename)
- Keep the original files - don't overwrite them with edited versions
2Step 1: Review Your Proof
The first thing you should do is carefully review your proof copy.
Open the Proof PDF
Click the Adobe review link in our delivery email
Review Every Page
Check front matter, all chapters, and back matter carefully
Look for Issues
Check spacing, headers, page numbers, chapter breaks, and overall layout
Add Comments
Use Adobe's commenting tools to mark any issues or changes needed
💡 Pro Tips
- Review in a quiet place where you can focus
- Take breaks - fresh eyes catch more errors
- Check the table of contents links (for ebooks)
- View on multiple devices (for ebooks)
3Step 2: Request Revisions (If Needed)
If you find issues or want changes, here's how to request revisions:
Use Adobe Comments
Add comments directly to the proof PDF using our review link
Be Specific
Clearly explain what needs to change with page numbers
Submit All Changes at Once
Bundle all your revision requests together to save time
Wait for Revised Files
We'll send updated files within 3-5 business days
⚠️ Important
- Revisions are included for formatting issues, not content changes
- Adding new content may require a new order
- Be thorough in your first review to minimize revision rounds
4Step 3: Approve Your Files
Once you're happy with everything, it's time to approve and move forward.
Final Review
Do one last check of all files
Confirm Approval
Reply to our email confirming you approve the files
Receive Final Files
We'll send your final, publish-ready files
5Step 4: Publish Your Book
Now you're ready to publish! Here are your options:
Amazon KDP (Recommended)
Upload to Kindle Direct Publishing for Amazon distribution
IngramSpark (Wider Distribution)
Upload to IngramSpark for bookstore and library distribution
Other Platforms
Apple Books, Google Play Books, Kobo, etc.
Print-on-Demand Services
Use your print PDF with any POD service
💡 Pro Tips
- Start with Amazon KDP - it's the easiest
- Order a proof copy before approving for sale
- Consider wide distribution through IngramSpark
- We have detailed guides for uploading to each platform
6Step 5: Order Proof Copies
Before making your book available for sale, order physical proof copies.
Upload to KDP or IngramSpark
Follow the upload process but don't publish yet
Order Author Copies
Order proof copies at cost (no royalty)
Review Physical Book
Check the actual printed book for any issues
Approve or Request Changes
If everything looks good, approve for publication
⚠️ Important
- Colors may look different in print than on screen
- Check the spine carefully
- Review the cover wrap alignment
- Don't skip this step - screens don't show everything
7Keeping Your Files Safe
Your formatted files are valuable - protect them!
💡 Pro Tips
- Save files in multiple locations (computer + cloud)
- Don't edit the formatted files yourself
- Keep the original Word manuscript separate
- If you need changes later, contact us - don't DIY
- Save confirmation emails with download links
8When to Update Your Files
You may need updated files in these situations:
Found Typos After Publishing
Contact us for a revision - we can update the files
Want to Add Content
New edition with additional chapters or sections
Changing Trim Size
Requires reformatting for new dimensions
Platform Requirements Changed
Rare, but sometimes platforms update their specs
9Need Help?
We're here to support you even after delivery!
💡 Pro Tips
- Questions about uploading? Email us at info@hmdpublishing.com
- Not sure about something? Ask before making changes
- Need help with cover design? We offer that too
- Want marketing support? Check out our marketing services
- Stuck on KDP upload? We can walk you through it
Your formatted book is ready for the world! Take your time reviewing, don't rush the publishing process, and reach out if you need any help along the way. We're invested in your success and here to support you from formatting to publication and beyond.
Need Help with Your Book Formatting?
Our team is here to help you every step of the way.
Contact Support