Re: Page counts

[Al Geist <al -dot- geist -at- geistassociates -dot- com>]

Krista Van Laan wondered: <<I don't know why publishers don't use word 
counts, especially since they like to use Word. In my experience, they 
created a ridiculously complex method for us to count our pages, all in 
an effort to make it as much like an old typewriter as they could -- 
asking for a manuscript in courier, double-spaced, not taking advantage 
of word counts, etc.>>

I have been at this game for near 30 years and I can't think of any 
"publisher" that uses Word.  Writers use Word and WordPerfect and a host 
of other word processors to create text.  Publishers rely on PageMaker, 
InDesign, FrameMaker and a number of other programs that take the word 
processed text, add images and paginate the whole shebang so it will run 
through the print press and come out the other end folded, sheared and 
in the proper page order.  They need to know page count in order to make 
maximum use of the paper and ensure an efficient printing process.  Just 
as editors do not like to pay for extra words, print customers do not 
like to pay for extra paper.

As for asking for manuscripts in Courier and double-spaced, a lot of 
that has to do with writers/authors submitting material in just about 
any type font you can think of with about any leading that is in vogue 
at the time.  By specifying the type font and spacing, it ensures them 
that the writer/author is focusing on the writing and not trying to be a 
writer/author/designer/etc., plus it gives them a good foundation to 
estimate the size of the document they are publishing.  (I've had to 
work with some of those author-designers and for the most part, they 
were good writers, but.....)  Most publishers also read the manuscript, 
and regardless of how many times you have proofed the material, there 
will always be a typo or two that you miss.  This allows them the room 
to make those corrections before the next step (and subsequently reduce 
the cost of those corrections by a factor of 10).

I suggest that if you have an opportunity to work for a publishing house 
for a period of time, you jump at the chance.  Even a short stint with 
your local printer is an eye opener.  They have a whole different set of 
problems that need solving as they take your manuscript and create a 
book out of it.

Just thought I'd add my two cents.


--

Al Geist, Geist Associates
From Concept to Completion
Technical Writing, Online Help Applications, Marketing Collateral, Web 
Design, Award Winning Video, Professional Photography
Office: 505-294-8855

Cell: 541-218-1252
E-mail: al -dot- geist -at- geistassociates -dot- com <mailto:al -dot- geist -at- geistassociates -dot- com>
URL: www.geistassociates.com

"When the situation is absolutely hopeless, you have nothing to worry 
about."
                        Compliments of The Monkey Wrench Gang




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