TypetransE-book DOCX guide
Smashwords DOCX Formatting for Wide E-book Distribution
Smashwords formatting rewards restraint. The more consistent the Word styles, paragraph behavior, and chapter structure are, the cleaner the conversion tends to be.
Use simple Word styles, clear chapter headings, consistent paragraph indents, no headers or footers, and avoid manual formatting that can break during conversion.
Best for
Self-publishers preparing a Word document for Smashwords or wide e-book distribution workflows.
File policy
Temporary downloads expire after about 12 hours.
Formatting rules
What to check before you use this format
Authors preparing wide distribution need a clean, style-based DOCX that converts reliably and avoids common Smashwords formatting rejections.
Output
Formatted DOCX
Typetrans formats the Word document. It does not claim to export PDF or EPUB from this template.
Body font
Times New Roman 14 pt
Line spacing
1.5 line spacing
Paragraphs
1.27 cm first-line indent
Page setup
US Letter, 2.54 cm on all sides
Header/footer
No running header or footer
Best use
Wide e-book distribution from a Word manuscript
Conversion note
Use the formatted DOCX as a conversion source, then inspect the converted e-book files.
Step-by-step formatting workflow
Strip unstable formatting
Remove copied web styles, manual spacing, text boxes, and decorative elements before conversion.
Apply simple paragraph styles
Use consistent body paragraphs and heading styles instead of one-off manual formatting.
Check chapter navigation
Chapter headings should be easy for the conversion workflow to identify.
Review every output
After conversion, inspect EPUB and retailer previews for spacing, images, and table-of-contents issues.
Wide distribution cleanup
Before
A manuscript with copied web formatting, inconsistent chapter titles, and manual blank lines around scene breaks.
After
A style-based DOCX with clean headings, stable paragraphs, and fewer conversion surprises.
Common formatting mistakes
- Using tabs, spaces, or blank paragraphs to force layout.
- Keeping headers, footers, or page numbers in a reflowable e-book source file.
- Mixing style-based formatting with manual overrides on every chapter.
- Assuming a converted file is correct without previewing it.
Frequently asked questions
Does Typetrans export Smashwords Style Guide as EPUB?
No. This guide and template prepare a clean DOCX for platform upload or conversion. Use the publishing platform's converter or a dedicated e-book tool when you need the final EPUB file.
Does this replace the Smashwords Style Guide?
No. Use this as a DOCX cleanup aid, then compare your file with the latest Smashwords instructions and preview the converted outputs.
Why is Smashwords so strict about formatting?
Smashwords converts your DOCX into multiple e-book formats (EPUB, MOBI, PDF). Clean, style-based formatting ensures consistent results across all formats.
Can I use custom fonts on Smashwords?
Smashwords recommends standard fonts like Times New Roman or Georgia. Custom fonts may not transfer correctly to all e-readers.
Check your DOCX before paying
Upload a DOCX to scan formatting issues for free. If you choose to auto-format, 1 credit covers up to 20 pages. Files are not stored as document history.
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