Ebook creation software is a program that converts your HTML (HyperText Markup Language), or text pages, into a single executable file or ebook. Basically, it takes all of the pages you have written and 'compiles' them into a single book. Ebook creation software is also known as an ebook compiler. These terms are used interchangeably throughout this text.

Although there are several options when it comes to ebook formats, this article is focusing more on HTML compiled ebooks. This type of ebook is compiled into a downloadable, self executing EXE file. After downloading, your ebook opens on your customers' computer simply by double clicking the file.

Purchasing ebook creation software

If you plan on writing electronic books, you are going to need an ebook compiler. When choosing your software you will want to keep a few things in mind before buying.

First, you need to make sure you will be able to learn how to use the software. The package needs to include a non-technical manual and/or plenty of help files. Another great feature that comes with some higher quality compilers is a project wizard. The project wizard holds your hand and helps you create your ebook step-by-step, from front cover to back cover.

Another question is, how long has the ebook creation software existed? Has it been out for a number of years or just a few months? If it's a product that has been around for a while, it will probably be more reliable and have most of the bugs worked out.

Does this ebook compiler have the features you desire? Are you planning on adding images? Do you have the need to add audio or video to your ebook? Can you change the size of the text? When purchasing ebook creation software make sure your software has the features you desire.

A big factor in determining which product to buy may be the price. You may be able to buy a bare bones minimum compiler for only fifty bucks with limited capabilities. On the other hand, you may spend close to ten times that amount on a super-elite program that does everything but take out the garbage. Personally, the program I use costs about a hundred bucks and has all the features I could ever use.

The last thing to consider is, are you able to download a demo version and try it for free? This way you will be able to judge the product, not from the great sales pitch, but from the actual product itself. You can take it for a test drive and determine if this product is a good fit for you - before you spend any money!

Whatever name you want to use; ebook creation software, ebook compiler or even HTML compiler, the bottom line is they are all the same thing. You can use them to create HTML ebooks that are completely interactive with the internet. These books can have live links, graphics, forms, embedded video and more. The ebook can be as simple or dynamic as you want it to be. So, before purchasing your ebook creation software, make sure it has all the capabilities you need for creating your next (or first) ebook.