To format a nonfiction book for IngramSpark, use a 6”×9” trim on white paper, export as PDF/X-1a:2001 with CMYK or grayscale color, and include a table of contents and (ideally) an index. IngramSpark is the primary distribution channel for nonfiction in bookstores and libraries — these buyers order through Ingram’s catalog, not Amazon. A well-formatted nonfiction book with proper metadata and returnability enabled can appear alongside traditionally published titles on bookstore shelves.
Nonfiction specs for IngramSpark
| Setting | Recommendation |
|---|---|
| Trim | 6” × 9” (standard nonfiction) |
| Paper | White (50#) — better for charts, tables, and images |
| Font | Garamond, Palatino, or Minion Pro, 11–12pt |
| Headings | Strong hierarchy (H1/H2/H3) |
| Inside margin | 0.75”–0.9” |
| PDF/X-1a:2001 | |
| Color space | Grayscale (B&W) or CMYK (color) |
For nonfiction formatting conventions (headings, tables, footnotes), see how to format a nonfiction book.
Charts, tables, and diagrams
Nonfiction often includes data visualizations. On IngramSpark:
Black and white charts
- Convert to grayscale before building the PDF
- Use pattern fills instead of color fills (diagonal lines, dots, crosshatch) so readers can distinguish data series in B&W
- Minimum 300 DPI at print size
Color charts
- Convert to CMYK — required for IngramSpark
- Colors will shift — reds stay true, greens and blues mute
- Color interior costs ~$0.07/page vs ~$0.016/page for B&W
- A 200-page color nonfiction book: ~$14 to print vs ~$3.20 for B&W
Tables
- Tables should be typeset as text (not images) for sharpness
- If using images of tables, ensure 300 DPI minimum
- Leave adequate cell padding — tight tables are hard to read in print
Cambric handles heading hierarchy, table formatting, and PDF/X-1a export for IngramSpark. Your nonfiction book looks like it came from a major publisher.
Get Cambric — $199
Index requirements
An index isn’t required by IngramSpark, but it significantly increases your book’s credibility and usefulness — especially for reference nonfiction. Libraries and academic buyers expect indexes.
- Place the index as the last section in back matter
- Use two-column layout for the index pages
- Index entries should reference page numbers (which means the index is built after the interior is paginated — it’s always the last thing you do)
Library and bookstore setup
For maximum nonfiction distribution:
- Enable returnability — essential for bookstore orders
- 55% wholesale discount — the bookstore/library standard
- BISAC subject codes — choose the most specific categories for your topic
- Library of Congress Control Number (LCCN) — apply before publication
- Separate ISBNs — paperback, hardcover, and ebook each get their own
Hardcover nonfiction
IngramSpark hardcover (case laminate) at 6×9 is standard for serious nonfiction. List at $24.99–$34.99. Many nonfiction authors publish hardcover first, then release paperback 6–12 months later (mimicking traditional publishing schedules).
Pricing strategy
| Word Count | Pages | IS Cost (B&W) | Price | Royalty (55% disc) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 50,000 | ~160 | ~$3.20 | $17.99 | $4.90 |
| 60,000 | ~190 | ~$3.64 | $18.99 | $4.91 |
| 70,000 | ~220 | ~$4.08 | $19.99 | $4.92 |
| 80,000 | ~250 | ~$4.52 | $19.99 | $4.48 |
Nonfiction commands higher prices — $17.99–$24.99 paperback. Business and professional nonfiction can go higher.
Related guides
- Format a nonfiction book — conventions and layout
- 6×9 IngramSpark specs — trim specifications
- IngramSpark requirements — platform overview
- Front matter and back matter — complete guide
- KDP Book Calculator — page count and cost