How do I know how many pages I have really written?

Question

I am writing a novel, and of course it is my first novel. None the less, I know pages of books are different than the number of pages you have written in the program "Microsoft Word." How do I know approximately how many pages I have written, I can see how many 8 1/2 x 10 pages I have written, but those aren’t book size. What is standard book size and how can I know / format from my program how much I have written? Should I double or single space? Should I start a new page for a new chapter?

I know font size is 12, but should I double or single space. And Book size isn't 8 1/2 x 10, its like 5x3 or 6x4, or something strange.

Answer 1

Good suggestions from everyone. Be aware that the publishing industry doesn't generally count things by page number but by word count (and they're finally moving to computerized word count instead of guestimating 250 words/page, thank goodness!) A novel, for example, needs to be 50,000 words. Some publishers want books at around 70,000 words or 90,000 words, and 100,000 words is too long for some publishers (b/c it will cost too much to print with a decent font).

Yes to 1-inch margins, double-spaced, single-sided. Indent 5 spaces for new paragraphs. Do start a new page for a new chapter, and start it a third to halfway down the page. Courier 12 is about the equivalent of Times Roman 14.

Answer 2

Most publishers and agents ask that manuscripts be formatted with double spacing, 1.5 inch margins on the left and right of the page, and 12 pt. font. That's typical for most, but of course, not all; it depends on who you're sending it to. The main reason for this format is because it is generally easier on the eyes if one has to read a lot of submitted material (as all agents and publishers do).

Inserting a page break at the end of a chapter isn't always necessary, but it does tend to make the work look better, a little more professional.

As for knowing how many pages you've written, well that's a little tougher. Most books have somewhere between 350 and 400 words per page (depending on font size, which varies between trade hardback, book club editions, paperback, etc.), so what I do is divide my total word count by 350; that gives me a minimum estimate. It's not 100% accurate, but it's in the ball bark. My advice would be not to worry about over-writing; the editing process will take care of a lot of needless material, and you'll probably be sure to reach your intended page limit that way.

Hope that helps, and good luck on your book!

Answer 3

Double space, with 5 space indent at the beginning of new paragraphs. One inch to one and a half inch margin all around, turn off the widow/orphans option, and all other line limits listed there under Format/paragraphs/Line and page breaks.

Type only on one side of the paper.

Yes start each chapter on a new page. Chapter number should be about half way down the page, two double spaces then start the text.

All pages need a header or TITLE/author last name and page number.

First page should have the Novel title centered in Caps with by--and authors name under it (not in caps) All pages need to be numbered in the right hand corner. see header above (Headers are found under VIEW on the menu.

As to actual number of pages in your book--I have only a vague idea, but its not many less than the number of manuscript pages you've typed as discribed here.

also go to http://www.writersdigest.com or buy the magazine off the newstand, or the Writers Digest Marketing book. Also The Writer. They'll give you good information on writing, formatting and submitting.

Answer 4

pages: depends on you. but really 100 or 200
font:12
format: times new roman
space:double, if your going 2 give it 2 an eidtor or teacher 2 correct if not single works
number the pages by going 2 Insert, Page Numbers and pick which one you want
about 5''x4'' is the regualr book size
start new page 4 new chapter and if u like it stick w/ it if u son't don't start new page-this depends on the author

Answer 5

Standard book size is (font) 12. You should definitely start a new page for a new chapter unless you don't have enough paper.

Answer 6

I don't know the size of most books, measure one you have laying around and adjust your page layout or margins to replicate it on Word.

That's how I did mine for a while.

If you do try to get published though you will need to reformat it back to however the literary agent wants your manuscript.