Preproduction Guide

The 10 Most Common Mistakes Made When Preparing an Electronic File

1.  Inappropriate Program — Your printer can give you advice on which program(s) will produce the best product for your job.

2.  Incorrect Document Setup — Ask your printer if you need to create your layout in printer's or reader's spreads. each company uses different prepress procedures.

3.  Spelling Errors — Spell check your document first, then proofread them.

4.  No Bleeds — Add a minimum of 1/8" to your documents.

5.  Incorrect Colors — All colors must be CMYK or specified PMS color.

6.  Incorrect Color Mode — RGB and Index color images need to be converted to CMYK.

7.  Incorrect File Format and Resolution for Images — Photographs and graphics need be saved at 300 dpi as a TIFF or an EPS and not as a JPEG or GIF.

8.  Applying Styles to Type — Select a style through the font menu. Don't click the italic, bold or underline buttons. Also avoid true type fonts.

9.  Missing Fonts and Images — Collect all fonts and images, including embedded ones.

10. No Hard Copy Provided — Printers need a hard copy of your final document to make sure your job will be printed correctly. You can send a photocopy, fax, laser printout, color proof or composite PDF.