Introduction

When it comes to writing a book, most authors focus on storytelling, character arcs, and getting words on the page—and rightfully so. But there’s another essential tool that often gets overlooked in the process: the style guide.

Whether you’re working solo or collaborating with editors, designers, or proofreaders, a style guide helps ensure your book remains consistent and polished from start to finish.

What Is a Style Sheet?

A style sheet is a customised reference document that outlines the specific rules, preferences, and stylistic choices for your manuscript. It can cover anything from spelling and punctuation preferences to how dates, numbers, character names, and internal terms are treated throughout your book.

Think of it as a behind-the-scenes manual for maintaining consistency across your manuscript—and even future works in a series.

Why It Matters for Authors

🔹 Consistency Is Key
Imagine a character’s name appearing as “John-Paul” in some chapters and “John Paul” in others. Or switching between UK and US spelling halfway through the book. A style guide keeps these inconsistencies in check, so readers stay focused on the story—not the distractions.

🔹 Streamlines the Editing Process
When your editor knows your preferences up front—like whether you want “OK” or “okay", or if you’re following the Chicago Manual of Style—it speeds up the editing process and reduces unnecessary changes.

🔹 Strengthens Your Author Brand

If you’re planning a series or writing across multiple books, a style guide helps you maintain a recognisable voice and tone that your readers come to know and trust.

🔹 Saves Time (and Money!)
Fewer back-and-forth revisions, fewer missed inconsistencies, and a smoother production process overall—yes, please!

What Should Be Included in a Style Sheet?

Every author’s style guide is different, but here are some basics to consider:

• Preferred spelling and grammar rules (US vs. UK English)
  

• Capitalisation choices
  

• Punctuation preferences (Oxford comma, em dashes vs. en dashes)
  

• Character names and descriptions
  

• Specific terminology or invented words
  

• Dialogue formatting
  

• Citation or reference styles (if applicable)

Final Thoughts

Creating a style sheet may seem like a small detail, but it can make a big difference in the final quality and professionalism of your book. At All in the Edit, we work closely with authors to develop personalised style guides that align with your vision—making the entire editing and publishing journey more seamless.

📚 Ready to create your own style sheet or need help polishing your manuscript?
Let’s chat. We’re here to help your book become the best version of itself.