What is an eBook? How to Create, Format & Publish Your Own eBook

If you haven’t heard of eBooks by now, where have you been? They’ve become the go-to way to publish and share books with the world, and for good reason. eBooks are easy to create, simple to distribute, and can reach a global audience in no time! 

In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about eBooks: what they are, how to create one, the formats that work best, and how to get your eBook published on popular platforms.

What Is An eBook?

An eBook is simply a digital version of a traditional printed book. Instead of flipping through physical pages, readers access eBooks on electronic devices like e-readers, tablets, smartphones, or even their computers. The best part? They can be read anywhere, anytime, making them a popular choice for today’s on-the-go readers.

eBooks come in different formats, but the most common ones are EPUB, MOBI, and PDF. Each format has its advantages depending on the device or platform you’re using. For example, EPUB is widely used across various devices like Nooks and iPads, while MOBI is Amazon’s preferred format for Kindle devices. 

eBooks are an easy, portable, and modern way to share your work with a digital-savvy audience.

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How To Create An eBook

Creating an eBook is easier than it may seem. Once your content is ready, you can focus on the technical side of things. Here’s how to get your eBook ready for the digital world:

Step 1: Edit and Format Your Text

After your content is finalized, it’s time to clean it up. Editing ensures your eBook is polished and ready for readers. Pay attention to grammar, style, and consistency. Then, format your text for the digital world. Proper formatting ensures your eBook looks professional and is easy to read across different devices.

Here’s a quick checklist for formatting:

• Use standard fonts like Arial or Times New Roman for readability.
  
• Set consistent margins and line spacing.
  
• Add page breaks between chapters to make navigation smooth.
  
• Include a table of contents for longer works.

Step 2: Add Visuals (Optional)

While eBooks are primarily text-based, adding visuals like images, charts, or illustrations can enhance the reader’s experience—especially for children’s books, guides, or photo books. If you decide to include visuals, ensure they’re optimized for digital formats. Avoid using large images that may slow down the eBook loading time or make it difficult to read on smaller screens.

Step 3: Convert Your eBook to the Right Format

Once your content is formatted and visuals are in place, you’ll need to convert your file into an eBook-friendly format. The most popular eBook formats are EPUB, MOBI, and PDF:

• EPUB is the most universal format, compatible with most devices except for Kindle.
  
• MOBI is used by Kindle, so it’s a must if you’re planning to publish on Amazon.
  
• PDF is good for fixed-layout eBooks, but not ideal for smaller devices.
  

There are free and paid tools available to convert your file to these formats, such as Calibre or Scrivener. Some publishing platforms also handle the conversion process for you once you upload your manuscript.

With these steps complete, you’re ready to move on to publishing your eBook.

What is an eBook Format?

When it comes to eBooks, the format you choose can make a big difference in how your content is displayed across various devices. Here’s a breakdown of the most common eBook formats and how they work:

EPUB (Electronic Publication)

EPUB is the most widely used eBook format. It’s compatible with almost all devices and platforms, including Apple Books, Kobo, Nook, and many others. EPUB files are flexible because they can adjust to different screen sizes, making them a great option for e-readers, tablets, and smartphones.

Why use EPUB?

• It’s the most universal format, supporting all non-Kindle devices.
• It adjusts well to different screen sizes, improving readability on mobile devices.

MOBI (Mobipocket)

MOBI is Amazon’s proprietary format, used for Kindle devices and apps. If you’re planning to publish your eBook on Amazon, you’ll need to convert your manuscript to MOBI. Unlike EPUB, MOBI files don’t adjust as well to different screen sizes, but they are optimized for Kindle’s e-reader features.

Why use MOBI?

• It’s the required format for publishing on Amazon Kindle.
• Works well for Kindle users, with features like annotations and bookmarks.

PDF (Portable Document Format)

PDF is one of the most common file formats for eBooks, especially for fixed-layout content like guides, cookbooks, or photo books. Unlike EPUB and MOBI, PDFs don’t reflow text based on screen size. This means that the layout and formatting are fixed, which is great for content where the design is important.

Why use PDF?

• Perfect for fixed-layout content where design matters.
• It preserves formatting exactly as you intended.

Which Format Should You Choose?

• If you want broad compatibility and flexible layout, EPUB is the best option.
• If you’re targeting Amazon Kindle readers, you’ll need MOBI.
• For content that needs precise design and layout (like cookbooks or manuals), PDF is the way to go.

Choosing the right format depends on your content and where you plan to distribute it. Each format has its strengths, so understanding your needs will help you make the right choice.

How to Publish Your eBook

Once your eBook is ready, it’s time to publish it and get it in front of readers. The process can be broken down into a few clear steps. Here’s how you can publish your eBook:

Step 1: Choose a Publishing Platform

The first decision is selecting the right platform to publish your eBook. There are several platforms available, each with its own set of features and benefits. Here are the most popular ones:

• Amazon Kindle Direct Publishing (KDP): The largest eBook platform, allowing you to publish and sell directly to Amazon’s massive audience. If you’re aiming for global distribution, KDP is essential. It supports MOBI files, but it can also convert EPUB files to the appropriate format.
  
• Apple Books: If you’re targeting readers using Apple devices, Apple Books is a great platform. It supports EPUB files and gives you access to millions of readers around the world.
  
• Smashwords: An aggregator that helps you distribute your eBook to multiple platforms (including Barnes & Noble, Kobo, and Apple Books). It’s ideal if you want to cast a wider net without uploading your eBook to each site individually.
  
• Barnes & Noble Press: A platform specifically for Nook readers. It allows you to publish EPUB files and reach a different segment of readers.

Each platform has its own rules and royalty rates, so take some time to research the options and choose the one that aligns with your goals.

Step 2: Upload and Publish

Once you’ve selected a platform, the next step is to upload your eBook. The publishing platform will typically require the following:

• Your manuscript file in the correct format (EPUB, MOBI, or PDF).
  
• Cover image: A professional cover is crucial—it’s the first thing readers will see, and it plays a big role in sales.
  
• Metadata: This includes your book’s title, author name, description, keywords, categories, and pricing details.
  

Make sure to review the platform’s guidelines to ensure everything is in order. Some platforms will also offer tools to preview how your eBook will look on different devices before you hit “publish.”

Step 3: Distribution Options

Once published, you’ll need to decide how you want to distribute your eBook. Most platforms allow you to distribute your eBook through their own marketplace, but some also give you the option to extend distribution to other stores. Here are a few options:

• Direct Publishing: Upload your eBook to a single platform (like Amazon KDP) and make it available only on that store.
  
• Wide Distribution: Use a platform like Smashwords or Draft2Digital to distribute your eBook to multiple online stores (including Apple Books, Barnes & Noble, and Kobo).

If you want the broadest reach, opting for wide distribution might be the best route. However, exclusive deals with platforms like Amazon can sometimes offer additional benefits like higher royalty rates or access to specific marketing tools.

With your eBook uploaded and distribution set, you’re now officially published!

eBook Publishing Services: Do You Need Them?

While it’s possible to publish your eBook on your own, there are many services available that can help streamline the process and ensure your eBook is of the highest quality. Here’s a look at when you might want to consider using eBook publishing services:

When to Consider Using eBook Publishing Services

• Editing and Proofreading: Even the best writers need a second set of eyes. Professional editors can help polish your eBook, making sure it’s free from grammar errors, inconsistencies, and awkward phrasing.
• Cover Design: A visually appealing cover is essential for attracting readers. If you’re not confident in your design skills, hiring a professional can help ensure your cover looks professional and stands out on digital platforms.
• Formatting: eBooks need to be formatted correctly for digital reading devices. A professional formatter ensures your text, images, and layout appear crisp and consistent across all devices, giving your eBook a polished look.
• Marketing and Promotion: Publishing is just the first step; getting your eBook into readers’ hands is where the real work starts. Many publishing services offer marketing packages to help with visibility—this can include email marketing, social media promotion, and even paid ads.
• Distribution and Sales Support: Some services offer additional help with distributing your eBook across multiple platforms, including lesser-known but valuable stores like Kobo or Google Books. They may also offer insights into pricing strategies and promotions to boost sales.

What Do eBook Publishing Services Offer?

• Comprehensive Support: From writing and editing to design, formatting, and marketing, publishing services cover all the essential steps to help you produce a top-tier eBook.
• Professional Tools: Many services provide access to industry-standard tools and templates that simplify the publishing process and ensure your eBook meets all platform requirements.
• Time Savings: Using a professional service can save you time and effort, allowing you to focus on what you do best—writing and engaging with readers—while they handle the technical side of publishing.

How to Choose the Right eBook Publishing Service

• Reputation and Reviews: Look for services with a solid track record. Read reviews and ask for recommendations from other authors.
• Services Offered: Make sure the service offers what you need—whether it’s editing, formatting, cover design, or marketing.
• Cost vs. Value: Weigh the costs of using a service against the potential benefits. A professional service can be an investment that pays off with better sales and more exposure.

Using an eBook publishing service isn’t required, but it can make the process smoother and improve the final product. If you want to put your best foot forward and save time, it might be a great option to consider.

FAQ: What Is An eBook?