From the journal
Practical notes for creative work.
Short guides to help you plan, prepare, and review creative projects. Platform requirements change, so check current official guidance before making publishing decisions.
Publishing · 5 minute guide
A calm checklist before you prepare a book for KDP
Organize the manuscript, design choices, and listing materials before the final upload stage.
Read the guide
- Set the reader and promise. Write down who the book is for and what the reader should take away.
- Stabilize the manuscript. Complete a deliberate edit and proofread before preparing the final files.
- Choose the edition. Decide which formats you plan to prepare and check the platform’s current specifications for each one.
- Check permissions. Confirm you have the rights to use text, images, fonts, and other third-party material.
- Prepare listing information. Draft a clear description and make consistent choices for title, author name, and supporting assets.
- Review a proof where available. Check the reading experience and correct any issues before release.
These are general preparation steps, not a substitute for current Amazon KDP instructions or professional legal advice.
Design · 4 minute guide
Build a visual identity that works across channels
A simple system makes it easier to keep a project recognizable across formats.
Read the guide
- Start with context. Note the audience, the project’s character, and where the design will appear.
- Choose a small set of visual rules. Define color, type, spacing, and image style before making many assets.
- Design for real sizes. Check how the identity looks as a small profile image, a banner, a cover, and a phone screen.
- Create reusable files. Keep approved logos and graphics organized with clear names and formats.
- Review consistency. Compare new materials against the agreed system before publishing.
The goal is a flexible visual language, not making every piece identical.
Content · 4 minute guide
Write a brief that makes content easier to create
A few clear decisions up front can reduce revisions and keep the message focused.
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- Name the audience. Describe who the content is meant to help or reach.
- Choose one main action. Decide what a reader should understand or do next.
- Gather source material. Bring together approved facts, product details, examples, and required links.
- Set the channel and voice. A product page, short video, and newsletter each need different pacing and detail.
- Define the review process. Identify who checks factual claims, brand tone, and final approval.
- Learn from the result. Use feedback and relevant performance measures to guide the next iteration.
Practical AI · 5 minute guide
Use AI as a creative assistant, with a review step
AI can help explore options, but a person should remain responsible for the final work.
Read the guide
- Pick a bounded task. Ask for options, a rough outline, or a first-pass organization rather than an unquestioned final answer.
- Protect confidential information. Review the tool’s data practices before sharing sensitive or identifying details.
- Check every factual claim. Confirm names, dates, quotations, calculations, and niche claims against reliable sources.
- Make the output yours. Edit for the project’s voice, purpose, and audience.
- Review rights and disclosure needs. Check the rules relevant to the platform, client, or jurisdiction before using generated material.
Tool features and terms change; review the selected tool’s current documentation before use.
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