Microsoft Word documents are the preferred file format for manuscripts as this makes for an easier transition when importing into Pressbooks.

Below are some tips when creating your manuscript in Microsoft Word and some advice around the inclusion of supplementary materials.

Creating your manuscript in Microsoft Word

Collaborating in Microsoft Word

Depending on how you want to collaborate with joint authors or reviewers you may find Word easier to work with as it has advanced review and comment functions.

Structure in Microsoft Word

When working in Word use the inbuilt headings hierarchy to set up your structure.  This makes for an easy transition process when the Open Education Team import your manuscript as Pressbooks will recognise Word heading levels.  Heading level 1 will be recognised as chapter titles.

Format in Microsoft Word

Keeping the manuscript simple will assist with the editorial process.  Special formatting, design features and colours will not transfer seamlessly from Word into Pressbooks. The Open Education Team will consult with you to help choose the final design elements of your book.

Supplementary materials

Images, artwork and diagrams

Submit copies of all images, artwork and diagram files to the RMIT Open Education Team before the publication of your book.

The files should be highest resolution you have available, and should be in a widely available and non-proprietary format such as PNG, JPEG or RAW.

Include all images, artworks and diagrams in your Content Tracker with details of their original location if not created for this publication. This will enable the RMIT Open Education Team to share materials for others to reuse, subject to the Creative Commons licences that have been applied to them.

Documents

Supplementary materials such as handouts or slide sets can be made available within your book in Pressbooks.

Supply files separately when submitting your manuscript. Make sure these are checked for copyright and carry an appropriate Creative Commons licence.