eBook question

Janna · #1 (**permalink**) 08-02-2008, 05:56 PM

I am in the process of building a site and think my niche is a good one (as most are?) to inlude a link for a free eBook on my home page.

I know NOTHING about how to go about this but am willing to learn, as I have each step of the way so far.

So,I"m wondering.... Where can I get some good information and learn how to create an eBook and put a link on my home page? and, does it matter where I am in the process of creating content? I am slowly building pages (like I said, this is quite a learning process for me) and know I want to offer my eBook on my home page.

Thanks!

lisa · #2 (**permalink**) 08-02-2008, 06:15 PM

Hi Janna,

There are quite a ebook creation software programs out there like ebook edit pro, etc. but I use Adobe Acrobat Professional. It allows me to create my ebook in Microsoft Word and then Adobe turns the Word doc into a PDF in seconds and even converts the hyperlinks to live links. It's pretty easy. From there, you save/upload the PDF to your web host and then to allow people to download it you just provide a link like http://yourdomain.com/folder/file.pdf

Whatever software you choose, just make sure they don't create .EXE files. I made that mistake with my first ebooks. First of all MAC users have trouble opening them and people are often skeptical about opening EXE files due to viruses (and I don't blame them).

Adobe Acrobat is a bit pricey and I'm sure there are more economical ways to create PDF files. It seems that I even ran across a free service once. But I wonder if the free services allow you to secure/lock your book to prevent people from copying it? I know I can with Adobe Professional.

James · #3 (**permalink**) 08-02-2008, 06:51 PM

Janna

Don't know if I can add a lot to what Lisa said, but sometimes I can't resist throwing in a comment when I see someone expressing thoughts like yours.

You wrote:

Quote:

I know NOTHING about how to go about this but am willing to learn, as I have each step of the way so far.

and

Quote:

I...know I want to offer my eBook on my home page.

Your words are inspiring and a great example for the young and inexperienced members here. Having confidence in your ability to learn and make confident decisions about what you want to do with your site are real keys to success in this and any other worthwhile business. I know you are going to do well.

Janna · #4 (**permalink**) 08-02-2008, 06:56 PM

Lisa, first let me say THANK YOU THANK YOU THANK YOU! for the wonderful, generous way you share your experience and knowledge with everyone who asks. You are truly an amazing resource and "assistant" for many of us also on this website building journey.

I really don't mind spending the money for software I can truly benefit from. My one concern is .... is it over my head? I'm probably about as computer illiterate as they come, but when I know something is worth it, i'll stick it out and learn.

Any anyway, (kind of off topic here) isn't it a business expense, if I buy it with the purpose of enhancing my website?

Janna : )

TechieGuy · #5 (**permalink**) 08-02-2008, 06:58 PM

I have converted Microsoft Word documents to PDR using PrimoPDF in the past. I know that tool is free, and has several options.

Maybe someone else can recommend one?

BTW, you can also visit http://createpdf.adobe.com/ and convert 5 files for free.

lisa · #6 (**permalink**) 08-02-2008, 07:01 PM

Hi Janna,

Glad to help. If you make enough money for the year, yes you absolutely can write it off as a business expense. But if you don't earn whatever the net profit minimum is then by law you are not allowed to write it off. (For the U.S. I believe it's $4,000).

Adobe is pretty easy to use. In fact, you are going to do more work in Microsoft Word then you actually do in Adobe. In fact, after you complete your book, there will be a button on your navbar in Word that says "Convert to PDF". This will automatically launch Adobe so it can do its magic.

Once it's done you go up to the top menu to "secure" it so people can't copy it and then you're done! It is really very easy and you can always come here for help if you get stuck.

Janna · #7 (**permalink**) 08-02-2008, 07:05 PM

James, thanks for the kind words. I am determined to be successful, which for me means never having to go back to working for someone else. Pretty strong incentive for me!

Techieguy, thanks for the info. I will definately check out both of your suggestions.

thanks again, guys!

Janna · #8 (**permalink**) 08-02-2008, 07:16 PM

Thanks for the great suggestions and advice. I will check all of them out. I guess now my only question is....do i next work on creating the eBook I want to offer on my home page, or do i create more content. I have about 12 pages right now and find myself wanting to go back to the beginning and add to and edit my original work.

Janna : )

TechieGuy · #9 (**permalink**) 08-02-2008, 08:50 PM

If it were me I would add content because that is what will get you visitors. You can never have too much content.

I would also plan out the eBook, so you don't keep putting that off, but you shouldn't sacrifice good content on your web site.

eagleswingwis · #10 (**permalink**) 08-03-2008, 08:44 AM

For myself I found my writing has helped me by doing the table of contents first and adding to it at times, that way I don't get to redundant in mixing the content to much of one subject mixing with another.

While doing chapter 3 I think of something said to bring into fruition another chapter.

What helps a good composer of words to be great, (I believe) is to have dynamic words and the use of a great thesaurus.

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