Ebook compilers - What are they?

Definition

Ebook compilers are application software that enable the user to combine HTML (Hyper Text Markup Language) pages or text pages to form an executable file called an electronic Book. In other words, an ebook compiler does for the user what a book binder does for the book-maker.

Why are They Necessary?

A naïve person would think: ‘I can just type out my book using Microsoft word and distribute it as a single document to whomever I wish.’ Well, I wish it were that simple. An ebook compiler enables you to easily navigate through your work just as though it were a book. This means you can go to the exact page you want with a simple click of the button. Furthermore, it enables you to easily distribute your book over the internet to the intended person(s) with reduced risk of it being accessed by unscrupulous individuals, especially if you want to sell it. Obviously, you do not want to be a victim of plagiarism.

It goes without saying that an ebook compiler is extremely essential to the writer who diverts from the conventional printing and distribution of books to writing books electronically.

Where can you find them?

These compilers are available in large numbers on the world market. You do not need to walk to a computer shop to buy one. You can simply download them from the internet. Even though most of them are for sale, some are freeware.

How do you choose an ebook compiler?

The right ebook compiler for you is one that fulfills your needs. The most expensive or the latest are not necessarily the best. Hence, before you can choose a compiler you have to define your needs first.

The first thing is to consider the format of your text pages. Are they in HTML or PDF (Portable Document File) format? Since most of the pages on the internet are in HTML format, a lot of compilers for this type of pages are common. As for pages that are in PDF there are other compilers that you can choose as well.

It is extremely important that you select a compiler that is compatible with the operating system that is installed on your computer. The worst thing that can happen if you do not take this into account is to see an error message on your screen informing you that you cannot read your ebook because you have the wrong version of windows installed on your computer. Obviously you want to avoid unnecessary expenses. It is usually these little things that we do not pay attention to that cost us a lot.

Do not forget too that most compilers require that a browser be installed on your computer in order for them to run. HTML compilers usually require Microsoft Internet explorer or Netscape. Find out then which browser the compiler supports. Incidentally, some compilers do not need a browser and can work on any version of windows.

Do you want to sell your Book? If that is the case, then obviously you want your book protected from malicious plagiarists. Certain compilers enable you to password protect your book so a person can only view it upon making payment. Or perhaps you want to whet a person’s appetite by enabling him to view a few pages, say, the synopsis. By so doing, the person may even be more inclined to pay because he wants to read the whole book and benefit from its contents. Indeed the best compilers are the ones that allow you to generate and configure passwords to suit your preferences.

Even if you want to give away your ebook free of charge, you obviously do not want it to be modified by someone else. Thus, choose the compiler that best secures your work; and passwords are just about the best way of going about it.

You obviously want an ebook compiler that is easy to use and easy to configure. Well, how can you know that it is user friendly before you buy it? This is where trial versions make a lot of sense. A number of trial versions enable you to download a version of the compiler so that you can check if it is right for your needs.

Certainly you want to make your book very attractive. The software that you purchase must allow you to include interesting features which give the buyer a good reading experience. Therefore, choose the compiler that has these characteristics.

In conclusion, do not forget to keep the needs of your targeted audience in mind. This will enable you not only to choose what is best for you but also for your audience, after all you do not want your intended users to find it difficult to read your ebook.

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