An ebook is a digital book that can be read on a computer, tablet, smartphone, or dedicated ebook reader. It can consist of electronic text or also include audio, video, or hyperlinks. Ebooks are files that have specific characteristics that differentiate them from other digital files that can be read on digital devices. They are typically written in a program like MS Word or Google Docs, but before publishing, the book needs to be converted to a file format that puts the book in a fixed state that cannot be edited. Ebooks can be read in one of two ways:
- Portable ebook reading devices: These are small hand-held computers that mimic books. They are the size of a paperback, run on battery power, and have a back-lit screen. They display texts that have been downloaded from a computer and allow the reader to search for keywords and to add notes and hyperlinks.
- On your PC or Mac: You can download free reader software packages from the internet, such as Adobe Acrobat Reader and Microsoft Edge Reader, to read ebooks on your computer.
Ebooks are becoming more popular because they are convenient and less expensive to produce. They take up less space and eliminate the overhead costs needed for printing hard copies of the work. Ebooks are also a great way to gain confidence on a specific subject matter and improve writing skills. Creating an ebook to educate readers allows the author to expand their knowledge on the topic, establish their expertise, and develop their writing and editing skills.
