How to Avoid Common Mistakes and Time Wasters When Working with a Graphic Designer

Updated August 2026

How to Avoid Common Mistakes and Time Wasters When Working with a Graphic Designer

If you are like most new authors, you’re probably making some common mistakes that can slow down your project. The good news is that many of these problems are easy to prevent.

When you work with a graphic designer or book designer, clear communication, organized files, and prompt responses can make a big difference. Here are four common scenarios I’ve encountered and some simple solutions that can save you time, money, and frustration.

1. “But I sent you the corrections!”

“Betty” asked me to make some corrections to a hot project. But the information she said she sent was nowhere to be found.

The reason? Her corrections were embedded in an email thread. I didn’t see them. Betty insisted they were in the message she sent and suggested “scrolling down.” The corrections still weren’t visible.

Solution: Make your edits easy to find by copying and pasting them at the top of your message. Even better, mark up the PDF I sent you. Whether you have Acrobat Reader or Acrobat Pro, you can use the program’s commenting tools to indicate exactly what needs to be changed.

2. “Which file is the right one?”

“Tom” sent me poetry files that were not clearly marked. The file names did not match the outline he provided. Some were duplicates, some were not on the outline, some files were missing, and other files had different poem titles.

Sorting through these files took time that could have been spent designing the book.

Solution: Organize your files before sending them. Make sure the file names match the poem, article, or chapter title, and double-check every file name. A little organization on your end can speed up the design process and save you the cost of having me sort through everything for you.

3. “I can't find your email.”

“Sylvia” sends requests and questions via email but isn't always prompt about replying to messages or returning phone calls. Sometimes she loses messages or can't find attachments.

I can work more efficiently if you do, too.

Solution: If you lose a file or email, check your Inbox and Sent folder. If that doesn't work, search your email for the sender's name or a word from the subject line. Then follow up as soon as possible to make sure I received the information.

4. “I changed my mind about the book.”

“Bob” decided to have a hardbound book printed through a print-on-demand (POD) company. He did not have everything ready before starting the process and changed his mind about the price several times.

That meant making several changes to the book files and online setup, which slowed down the process.

Solution: Before you begin the publishing process, make a list of your “to-do” items. This might include deciding on the price of your book, purchasing your ISBN, and choosing the type of hardcover you want, such as case laminate or clothbound with a dust jacket.

If you're not sure which option is right for your book, ask me. I’ll be happy to explain the differences.

By implementing these simple solutions, you can save time and money, avoid unnecessary emails and phone calls, and play a positive role in producing your book.

If you're getting ready to publish a book, learn more about my book design services and how I can help streamline the process from manuscript to finished book.

Let's talk about your project and ways to streamline the process.