Essential Book Formatting Software for Authors: Make Your Book Look Professional

Introduction

When it comes to self-publishing or traditional publishing, book formatting plays a crucial role in ensuring a professional-looking book that is visually appealing and easy to read. Proper formatting enhances readability, credibility, and marketability, making it an essential step in the publishing process.

Choosing the right book formatting software can save you time, frustration, and money, helping you produce a polished manuscript that meets industry standards. Whether you’re publishing an eBook, print book, or both, using the right tools will make the entire process smoother.

This guide explores the best book formatting software for authors, their features, benefits, and how they help you create a professional-looking book. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced author, finding the right tool is key to producing a high-quality final product.

Why Book Formatting Matters

Book formatting is more than just adjusting margins and font sizes—it affects:

✔️ Readability – A well-formatted book is easier to read, keeping readers engaged.
✔️ Professionalism – Proper formatting boosts credibility and avoids looking amateurish.
✔️ Print and Digital Compatibility – Formatting ensures your book looks great in print and on eReaders.
✔️ Distribution Compliance – Many platforms, like Amazon KDP and IngramSpark, have strict formatting requirements.

To avoid formatting errors that could result in negative reader feedback or rejections from distributors, authors should invest in reliable book formatting software.

1. Vellum (Best for Mac Users)

Overview

Vellum is one of the most user-friendly book formatting tools, highly popular among self-published authors. It is exclusive to Mac users and provides a clean, intuitive interface that allows authors to create beautifully formatted books without coding or technical skills.

Key Features

✔️ Easy-to-use drag-and-drop interface.
✔️ Creates both print and eBooks seamlessly.
✔️ Pre-designed professional templates.
✔️ Live preview mode for instant formatting checks.
✔️ Exports in EPUB, MOBI, and PDF formats.

Best For

✅ Authors who want quick, high-quality formatting without a steep learning curve.
✅ Self-publishers on Amazon KDP, Apple Books, and Kobo.

Pricing

📌 One-time purchase: $199.99 for eBooks, $249.99 for print & eBook bundle.

2. Scrivener (Best for Writing & Formatting Together)

Overview

Scrivener is more than just formatting software—it’s a powerful writing tool with built-in formatting capabilities. It allows authors to organize chapters, research, and notes all in one place.

Key Features

✔️ Advanced manuscript organization tools.
✔️ Customizable templates for different book genres.
✔️ Export to multiple formats (EPUB, MOBI, PDF, DOCX).
✔️ Outlining and note-taking features for planning.
✔️ Syncs with cloud storage (Dropbox, iCloud).

Best For

✅ Authors who want an all-in-one writing and formatting tool.
✅ Writers who work on long, complex manuscripts.

Pricing

📌 One-time purchase: $49 for Windows/Mac, $19 for iOS.

3. Adobe InDesign (Best for Professional Formatting & Design)

Overview

Adobe InDesign is the gold standard for professional book formatting and design. It is widely used by publishers and graphic designers to create visually rich books, magazines, and print materials.

Key Features

✔️ Highly customizable layout design tools.
✔️ Advanced typography control.
✔️ Perfect for image-heavy books (illustrated books, cookbooks, etc.).
✔️ Creates print-ready PDFs for publishing platforms like IngramSpark.
✔️ Supports fixed-layout eBooks.

Best For

✅ Authors who want complete control over book design.
✅ Publishing professionals and graphic designers.

Pricing

📌 Subscription-based: Starts at $20.99/month (Adobe Creative Cloud plan available).

4. Atticus (Best for All-in-One Book Formatting & Writing)

Overview

Atticus is an all-in-one book writing and formatting tool that works on Windows, Mac, and Chromebook. Designed as an alternative to Vellum, it offers a user-friendly interface, professional templates, and customization options.

Key Features

✔️ Works on all devices (Windows, Mac, Chromebook).
✔️ Pre-made formatting templates for easy book styling.
✔️ Exports in EPUB, PDF, and MOBI formats.
✔️ Cloud-based access for writing and formatting from anywhere.
✔️ One-time purchase with no recurring fees.

Best For

✅ Authors looking for a Vellum alternative for Windows users.
✅ Self-publishers who need simple, effective book formatting.

Pricing

📌 One-time purchase: $147.

5. Kindle Create (Best Free Tool for Amazon KDP)

Overview

Kindle Create is a free tool from Amazon that helps authors format their books for Kindle Direct Publishing (KDP). While it lacks advanced customization, it is a great option for beginners.

Key Features

✔️ Simple formatting for Kindle eBooks.
✔️ Pre-formatted styles for different book genres.
✔️ Automatic table of contents generation.
✔️ Basic image and text formatting tools.
✔️ Direct upload compatibility with KDP.

Best For

✅ Beginner authors publishing exclusively on Amazon KDP.
✅ Writers on a budget looking for a free formatting tool.

Pricing

📌 Free (Available for Windows and Mac).

6. Reedsy Book Editor (Best Free Online Tool)

Overview

Reedsy Book Editor is a browser-based book formatting tool that offers a simple yet powerful way to format books for both print and eBook publishing.

Key Features

✔️ Easy-to-use online interface.
✔️ Drag-and-drop chapter organization.
✔️ Instant export to EPUB & PDF.
✔️ Collaborative features for working with editors.
✔️ No software installation required.

Best For

✅ Authors who prefer a free, browser-based formatting solution.
✅ Writers looking for a clean, simple formatting experience.

Pricing

📌 Free.

Choosing the Right Book Formatting Software

The best formatting tool depends on your publishing goals, experience level, and budget. Here’s a quick comparison:

Conclusion

Formatting is a critical step in publishing a professional-looking book. Whether you’re a first-time self-publisher or a seasoned author, using the right book formatting software ensures your manuscript meets industry standards and looks polished.

From premium tools like Vellum and Adobe InDesign to free solutions like Kindle Create and Reedsy Book Editor, authors have a variety of options. Choose the one that fits your needs and publishing goals, and take your book to the next level with flawless formatting.

By investing in quality book formatting, you enhance reader experience, credibility, and sales potential—giving your book the best chance at success in today’s competitive market.