Block paragraph to First Line indent help needed

[westmoors]

Hi, This is reallt basic stuff but I have got myself into a bit of a mess, I uploaded a book and it was rejected because I was using block paragraphs with first line indents although they did not show on my computer, ( I should have known better, no excuse , pure habit of using the return key in this way for years.)
I tried to change the script to first line indent but I soon realised that each and every paragraph had to be done on it's own as the setting cancelled out every time. I tried highlighting the whole script and then setting the indent but that did not work.

In the end I deleted each first line by backspacing until there was no space between paragraps and then using the Ctrl + Enter keys to make each paragraph space and made the whole job simple block paragraphs.

Needless to say this was not approved either when submitted !

I have one earlier book typed in exactly the same way which passed with no problems, so I couldn't understand why one passed and not the other.

I can only ask, please is there someone out there that can suggest a remedy, otherwise the only way out I can see is to re-type the whole book ! Westmoors.

[Julie Harris]

You need to modify the normal style so that it contains the indent, but until I know what version of Word you use I can't help. However, there is a Word 'template' which contains basic styles, plus how to use notes as well. Go to Help Please/Author Resources on this forum, and at the bottom of the page, you'll find the 'Smashwords template document and notes' post.
If you get really stuck/confused, please message me and I'll do what I can to help. There is absolutely no need to retype the whole book, Westmoors!
Julie.

[westmoors]

Thanks Julie, I did finally sort it out but I suspect I did it the hardest way ! One problem of several was that my story was not slpit into chapters but just single days and each day noted on the first line on the extreme left, the main text for that day starting two lines below, and that was the line I wanted to indent, but of course the 'Day' line got indented instead. On advice I copied and pasted the story into my Word 2000 notepad and then copied it back to a new blank document, this it seems deletes all punctuation etc so you can start again.
Not the easiest way I'm sure. I will take on board your suggestions and read up the notes as they are certain to be of help . It's not intended as an excuse but I came into this E book publishing rather late in life being born in 1931 ! and previously I have never has to call on the higher technicalities of formatting but I have been encouraged by people like yourself who have taken the trouble to help out. many thanks again. Westmoors.

[Julie Harris]

Let us know if you get stuck again. I used to do this kind of formatting in my job that lasted for 15 years so I know a few shortcuts. Best of luck with it.
Julie.