An Author's Guide to Acronyms

A platform, part of Audible, that connects authors, narrators, and producers to create audiobooks. ACX provides tools and  resources for authors to turn their written work into professionally produced audiobooks, which can then be distributed through Audible, Amazon, and iTunes. It's a valuable resource for writers looking to expand their reach and offer their work in an audio format.

A professional organization for librarians and library workers in the United States. The ALA provides resources, support, and advocacy for libraries and information professionals. It promotes library services and literacy, organizes conferences and events, and sets standards for library practices. For writers, the ALA can be an important partner in getting their books into libraries and connecting with readers.

​A format for interactive online sessions where individuals, often authors or experts, answer questions from the public. AMAs can take place on various platforms, such as Reddit or social media, and offer a chance for readers to engage directly with the author, ask questions about their work, or learn more about their writing process and experiences.

A writing style and format used primarily to cite sources within the social sciences. It includes guidelines for manuscript structure, in-text citations, and reference lists. For detailed guidance on APA style, refer to the online writing style guide from Purdue.

A pre-publication version of a book distributed to reviewers, journalists, and influencers before the official release. ARCs are used to generate early   reviews and buzz about the book, providing feedback to the author and publisher. They are often sent out to help with marketing and to build anticipation among readers.

A unique identifier assigned by Amazon to products listed on its platform, including books. For authors and publishers, the ASIN is used to track and manage their book's listing, sales, and inventory on Amazon. It helps ensure accurate cataloging and searching of products within Amazon’s extensive marketplace.

A type of book intended for young readers who are transitioning from picture books to more complex narratives. Chapter books are usually divided into short chapters and often contain illustrations.

A  software application that allows writers, editors, and other professionals to create, manage, and publish digital content on websites without requiring coding skills. It's especially useful for organizing and updating blogs, articles, and other written content. Popular CMS platforms include WordPress, Wix, and Squarespace, all of which are used by writers and authors to build and maintain their websites.

Cost Per Click is a metric used in online advertising where advertisers pay each time a user clicks on their ad. CPC is crucial for advertisers focused on driving traffic to their websites, as it directly ties the cost to user engagement. This model is often used in search engine advertising and social media campaigns.

Cost Per Mille, also known as Cost Per Thousand, is a metric used in advertising to denote the price of 1,000 ad impressions on a webpage. "Mille" is Latin for thousand, hence the term. CPM is commonly used in online advertising where advertisers pay for every 1,000 times their ad is displayed to potential customers. This metric helps advertisers budget their ad spend and measure the reach of their campaigns.

A prompt in writing that encourages the reader to take a specific action, such as subscribing to a newsletter, buying a book, or signing up for a writing  workshop. Effective CTAs are clear, compelling, and motivate the reader to engage further with the author's content or offerings. They are often used in marketing materials, websites, and social media to increase reader interaction and drive desired outcomes.

A metric used in digital advertising to measure the percentage of people who click on an ad or link compared to the number of times it is displayed. For writers and authors, CTR is important for evaluating the effectiveness of online ads, email marketing campaigns, and other promotional efforts to drive traffic to their websites or book listings.

A self-publishing platform that helps authors   distribute their eBooks and print books across various retailers and online stores. Draft2Digital offers tools for formatting, converting, and  distributing books to platforms like Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Apple Books, and more. It provides a streamlined way for authors to manage their self-publishing process and reach a wide audience.

A term used to describe self-directed, hands-on approaches to tasks or projects. In self-publishing, DIY refers to authors  taking on various aspects of book creation and promotion themselves, such as  writing, editing, cover design, formatting, and marketing, rather than relying on traditional publishing services. This approach allows for greater creative control and can be a cost-effective way for authors to bring their work to market.

A term used when a reader stops reading a book before reaching the end. This can happen for various reasons, such as lack of interest, dissatisfaction with the content, or finding the book difficult to read. It's important to note that a DNF doesn't necessarily mean the book is bad; it might just not be a good fit for the reader at that time. Authors and readers often discuss DNFs to understand reading preferences and improve future writing.

​A unique alphanumeric code assigned to a digital document or publication, such as academic papers, articles, and books. The DOI provides a permanent link to the document, making it easier to access and cite. For authors and researchers, having a DOI for their work ensures that it can be reliably located and referenced in academic and professional contexts.

A widely used digital eBook format that allows for flexible text reflow and is compatible with various e-readers and devices. EPUB files support features like adjustable font sizes, multimedia elements, and interactive content, making them a popular choice for authors and publishers looking to provide a versatile and accessible reading experience.

A Graphic Novel is a book made up of comics content, often telling a lengthy and complex story. Graphic novels combine visual art with narrative and can cover a wide range of genres and themes, appealing to readers of all ages with their unique blend of illustrations and text.

A common ending in romance novels where the characters achieve a positive and satisfying conclusion to their story. HEA endings ensure that the protagonists find lasting happiness, providing a sense of closure and fulfillment for readers who enjoy uplifting and optimistic narratives.

An ending where characters find temporary happiness, but the long-term future is left uncertain or open-ended. HFN endings are often used in series or ongoing stories, allowing for the continuation of the narrative while providing a satisfying resolution for the current installment.

A trade association that supports independent publishers and self-published authors. The IBPA provides resources, advocacy, and professional development opportunities to help members navigate the publishing industry, improve their practices, and connect with other professionals. It offers tools and guidance on various aspects of publishing, from production to marketing.

​Refers to creations of the mind, such as inventions, literary and artistic works, designs, symbols, names, and images used in commerce. Intellectual property rights protect these creations, giving creators legal control over their use and distribution. For authors, IP encompasses rights to their written work, including copyrights and trademarks, ensuring they can control and benefit from their creative output.

​A term used to refer to activities, interactions, or experiences that occur in the physical world, as opposed to online or in virtual environments. In the context of writing and publishing, IRL can denote face-to-face events like book signings, author readings, or conferences, contrasting with online engagements and interactions.

​A unique 13-digit identifier assigned to books to facilitate their tracking, cataloging, and sales. Each ISBN is specific to a particular edition and format of a book, helping bookstores, libraries, and distributors accurately locate and manage inventory. For authors and publishers, obtaining an ISBN is essential for book distribution and sales.

Amazon's self-publishing platform that allows authors to publish and sell their eBooks and paperbacks directly on Amazon. KDP offers tools for formatting, distributing, and managing book sales, and provides access to a global audience. It enables authors to retain creative control and earn royalties from their work.

A metric used to measure the effectiveness and success of various activities and strategies. In writing and publishing, KPIs might include book sales, website traffic, social media engagement, or email open rates. Tracking KPIs helps authors and publishers understand their progress toward goals, make data-driven decisions, and optimize their marketing efforts.

A unique identifier assigned by the Library of Congress to catalog books and other library materials. The LCCN helps libraries and institutions efficiently manage and locate books in their collections. For authors and publishers, obtaining an LCCN can enhance a book’s visibility and accessibility in libraries and contribute to its credibility and professional standing.

The  central character around whom the story revolves. The main character is typically the protagonist whose actions and decisions drive the plot  forward. 

• FMC (Female Main Character):  The main character who is female.   

• MMC (Male Main   Character): The main character who is male.

Middle Grade fiction is designed for readers aged 8 to 12. These books typically feature protagonists in the same age range and focus on themes like adventure, family, and friendship. MG novels are known for their engaging plots, relatable characters, and age-appropriate content that caters to the interests and reading levels of pre-teens.

An organization that provides guidelines and standards for writing and citation in the humanities, particularly in fields like literature, philosophy, and cultural studies. The MLA Handbook outlines the MLA style for formatting papers and citing sources, which is widely used in academic writing and research. The MLA format includes specific rules for in-text citations, works cited pages, and overall document layout.

​A written work that is submitted for publication or review. In the publishing industry, a manuscript can refer to any draft of a book, article, or other written content before it has been formally published. Manuscripts can be in various stages of development, from rough drafts to polished versions ready for submission.

A term used by literary agents and editors to specify the types of manuscripts they are currently interested in acquiring. These wish lists often include genres, themes, and specific story elements they are seeking. Writers use MSWL to identify which agents and editors might be a good fit for their work, increasing their chances of successful submissions and representation

New Adult fiction targets readers aged 18 to 30, exploring the transition from adolescence to adulthood. These novels often address themes such as independence, career choices, relationships, and self-discovery. NA books provide a bridge between Young Adult and Adult fiction, offering more mature content while focusing on the challenges of early adulthood.

An annual writing event held every November where participants aim to write a 50,000-word novel in 30 days. It encourages writers of all levels to push through the challenges of drafting a novel quickly, fostering creativity and discipline. NaNoWriMo offers community support, resources, and motivation to help writers reach their goals and celebrate their accomplishments.

A legal contract between parties that outlines confidential information shared between them and restricts the disclosure of that information to others. In writing and publishing, NDAs might be used to protect unpublished manuscripts, ideas, or sensitive business information. While not common in standard author-agent or author-publisher relationships, they can be important in high-profile projects, collaborations, or specific self-publishing arrangements to maintain confidentiality.

A nonprofit media organization in the United States that produces and distributes news, cultural programming, and storytelling content. Known for its high-quality journalism and in-depth reporting, NPR offers various radio shows, podcasts, and online articles. For writers, being featured on NPR can provide significant exposure and credibility. NPR's book reviews, author interviews, and literary features are influential in the literary community.

A major American newspaper known for its comprehensive news coverage, influential journalism, and prestigious bestsellers list. For authors, making it onto the New York Times Best Sellers list is a significant achievement, often leading to increased visibility and sales. The NYT also provides book reviews and literary news, making it a key publication in the literary world.

An individual who provides administrative, organizational, and support services to help manage tasks and responsibilities for a person, such as an author, executive, or busy professional. In the context of writing and publishing, a personal assistant might handle scheduling, correspondence, book promotion, event planning, and other tasks to help the author focus on their writing.

A Picture Book is a book intended for young children, typically with illustrations and a simple narrative. Picture books are often used to introduce early literacy concepts and storytelling, combining visual art with text to engage young readers and support their developmental learning.

A widely used file format developed by Adobe that preserves the layout, fonts, images, and formatting of documents across different devices and operating systems. PDFs are ideal for sharing and printing documents because they maintain a consistent appearance regardless of the platform used to view them. Authors and publishers often use PDFs for distributing manuscripts, eBooks, and other written materials.

A global literary organization that promotes literature and defends freedom of expression. PEN advocates for writers' rights, supports imprisoned or persecuted authors, and encourages literary culture through various programs and events. Membership includes poets, essayists, novelists, and other literary professionals who work together to protect the free exchange of ideas and celebrate literary excellence.

A program that provides authors with royalties or compensation when their books are borrowed from public libraries. The PLR system recognizes the contribution of authors to public culture and ensures they are financially rewarded for the use of their work. This compensation supports authors' livelihoods and encourages the continued creation of literature. The specifics of PLR programs can vary by country.

A subgenre of romance that incorporates supernatural elements such as vampires, witches, ghosts, or other paranormal beings into the love story. Paranormal Romance blends the romantic plot with fantastical or otherworldly elements, often exploring themes of magic, mystery, and the supernatural alongside the romance.

A printing technology that allows books to be printed individually or in small quantities as orders are received, rather than in large print runs. This method reduces upfront costs and inventory storage needs for authors and publishers. POD is commonly used in self-publishing and small press publishing, providing a cost-effective way to produce books with flexibility and minimal risk.

Point of View refers to the perspective from which a story is narrated. Common POVs include:

• First Person: The narrator is a character in the story, using "I" or "we."

• Third Person Limited: The narrator knows the thoughts and feelings of one character.

• Third Person Omniscient: The narrator knows the thoughts and feelings of all characters.

• Second Person: The narrator addresses the reader directly using "you." POV is crucial in shaping the reader's experience and understanding of the narrative.

An online advertising model where advertisers pay a fee each time their ad is clicked by a user. PPC is commonly used in search engine advertising, social media promotions, and display ads. For authors and publishers, PPC can be a useful tool to drive traffic to their websites, increase book visibility, and boost sales through targeted ad campaigns.

The practice of managing and shaping the public image and reputation of an individual, organization, or brand. In the context of writing and publishing, PR involves activities such as media outreach, press releases, promotional events, and strategic communication to generate positive coverage and build relationships with readers, journalists, and other stakeholders. Effective PR helps authors and publishers enhance visibility, engage with their audience, and achieve their marketing goals.

A request from an agent or editor for an author to make changes to their manuscript and then resubmit it for consideration. R&R feedback often includes specific suggestions for improvement, offering authors the opportunity to enhance their work and increase their chances of publication.

A financial metric used to evaluate the profitability or effectiveness of an investment. It is calculated by comparing the gain or loss from the investment relative to its cost. In the context of writing and publishing, ROI might refer to the financial return on marketing expenditures, book production costs, or promotional activities. Authors and publishers use ROI to assess the success of their investments in various aspects of their business and make informed decisions about future projects and strategies.

A professional organization dedicated to supporting and advocating for authors and illustrators of children's and young adult books. SCBWI offers resources such as networking opportunities, workshops, conferences, and guidance on the publishing process. It helps members connect with peers, develop their craft, and advance their careers in the field of children’s and young adult literature.

The practice of optimizing web content to improve its visibility and ranking on search engine results pages (SERPs). SEO involves strategies such as keyword research, on-page optimization (e.g., meta tags, headings), and off-page optimization (e.g., backlinks) to increase the likelihood that users will find and visit a website. For authors and publishers, effective SEO can drive more traffic to their websites, boost book sales, and enhance online presence.

The pages displayed by search engines in response to a user's query. SERPs include a list of results that can be organic (based on relevance and SEO) or paid advertisements. For authors and publishers, understanding SERPs is important for optimizing their online presence and improving the visibility of their books or content in search engine results.

A genre that encompasses speculative fiction, including both science fiction and fantasy elements. Science Fiction explores futuristic concepts, advanced technology, and space exploration, while Fantasy involves magical worlds, mythical creatures, and supernatural elements. Together, SFF covers a broad range of imaginative storytelling, often featuring unique world-building and extraordinary adventures.

A professional organization that supports and advocates for writers of science fiction and fantasy. SFWA provides resources such as networking opportunities, industry news, and guidance on contracts and publishing. It also offers membership benefits like access to workshops, conferences, and a platform for connecting with other professionals in the genre. SFWA plays a key role in promoting and supporting authors within the science fiction and fantasy communities.

A list of books that a reader intends to read in the future. This list often includes books that are already owned or those that are on a reader's radar for future purchase. For authors and publishers, understanding TBR lists can provide insights into reader interests and help target marketing efforts to those who are likely to engage with their books.

Content created and shared by users or consumers rather than by brands or organizations. In the context of writing and publishing, UGC can include reviews, fan fiction, social media posts, and blog comments contributed by readers. Authors and publishers often leverage UGC to build community, engage with their audience, and enhance marketing efforts through authentic, user-driven content.

A professional who provides administrative, technical, or creative support remotely. Virtual Assistants can help with tasks such as managing emails, scheduling, social media management, research, and more. For authors and publishers, a VA can be a valuable resource for handling various administrative tasks, allowing them to focus more on writing and creative work.

Word Count is the total number of words in a manuscript or written work. Word count is an important factor in determining the length and complexity of a book. For writers, tracking word count helps manage progress and meet specific targets for different types of publications.

A labor union representing writers in the film, television, and digital media industries. The WGA advocates for writers' rights, negotiates contracts, and provides support for fair compensation and working conditions. The organization also offers resources for professional development and networking. There are two main branches: WGA East and WGA West, serving writers on the East Coast and West Coast of the United States, respectively.

A term used to describe a project or manuscript that is still under development and not yet complete. In writing, a WIP refers to a draft or manuscript that an author is actively working on, which may still undergo revisions and edits before it is finished and ready for publication. The term is often used to discuss ongoing projects, share updates, or seek feedback during the creative process.

A measurement of typing speed or reading speed indicates the number of words typed or read in one minute. For writers, WPM can be a useful metric for assessing typing efficiency and productivity. It’s also commonly used in writing and editing environments to evaluate the speed at which content can be generated or processed.

A major American newspaper known for its comprehensive coverage of business, finance, and economic news. It also includes sections on politics, technology, and lifestyle. For authors and publishers, being featured in the Wall Street Journal can provide significant exposure and credibility, impacting book sales and enhancing visibility in the media.

Young Adult fiction is a category of literature aimed at readers aged 12 to 18. These novels often tackle themes such as identity, friendship, love, and personal growth, reflecting the challenges and experiences of adolescence. YA books are known for their relatable characters and engaging storylines, making them popular with both teenagers and adults who enjoy coming-of-age stories.