An advanced reader copy (or ARC) is an early version of a book that is shared ahead of publication. It will probably still have some design work to complete and typos to take in but it still has a purpose.

Many projects that I work on contain requests for photos or illustrations. Managing these is important from the start, as assets can easily stack up and it can be confusing. It’s not a post about gorgeous design but, like beautiful creations, it’s really useful!

Do you have an PSD that won’t open? Have you ever wondered when you should use a JPG instead of a PNG? Here’s a quick guide on what file type and where to use it.

Copyright and licensing of original design and illustration work is complex. There's no one size that fits all when it comes to pricing. What works for one creative may not work for another. Illegal use of images leads to distrust but when an agreement is done well then the rewards are great. The client receives something original and the creative is paid fairly; both can take pride in the outcome. This is a brief run down of common terms and licence maths. Yes, maths!

Using comments and annotations to digitally mark up a PDF helps to reduce miscommunication, typos, errors. It speeds up the revision process. When you mark onto a PDF, I receive an automatically generated checklist of your requested changes to help me keep track of what is required - all in one place! Here’s how to do it plus links to videos.

Myths about ISBNs abound, trying to find the answer is as easy as sourcing a litre of petrol. In this simple post, here’s an FAQ, taken from queries I receive from my publishers and authors when I’m designing and project managing books. I hope it’s useful.

I was asked if I could write a post explaining some of the terms used in print design. If I’ve missed anything, you can always ask me! I welcome your questions and will do my best to answer or find someone who does!

Page planning is a key part of any multiple page document. It’s a guide for all the people who form part of a project and a really useful overview for designers, editors and authors, saving time and money by making best use of space and printing savvy.