Why do you prefer a magazine over another? What makes you read a blog post or not? As with any other publication, a yearbook has to consider these basic questions to attract readers. Here are the 7 rules you should follow if you want to succeed this year.

When you begin writing for your yearbook, run your content through these criteria:

– Stay up to date. Write what is new and generally unknown to the reader.
– Make your story exceptional. Present your information differently by finding an original angle.
– Limit yourself to relatable topics. It’s easier to grab readers’ interest with subjects they are familiar with.

Your yearbook is a testament to the awesomeness of your students and staff. Remember, they’re the stars of the show! Ask them for their honest opinions, insights and feedback to create a yearbook they will appreciate and cherish in future years.

Simplicity is key when it comes to writing for your yearbook. Make a friendly reading experience by writing shorter sentences and using accessible vocabulary.

A complex word can be replaced with a simpler word which everyone can understand. Using unfamiliar terms can slow readers down, or make them skip entirely. If you’re not sure, have another person proofread your work!

There are infinite ways to excite your reader — start with the first glance at your stunning yearbook cover. Use beautiful colour schemes, graphic elements and more to invite them on a visual journey through your book.

Want to know more about yearbook design?
Read our Guide to Yearbook Design

First, survey your audience to find out how much they’re willing to spend. With that in mind, construct your budget by testing different combinations of pages, books, and options to find your ideal price. You can adjust your order up to the very last minute before sending to print.
Would you like to get quotes for your yearbook project?
Access our quote calculator to generate as many quotes as you need.

Create your action plan with short term and long-term goals — schedule deadlines, reminders, priorities, and backup plans. Make sure everyone in the yearbook creation process knows what to focus on next.

Want to save time?
Download a printable timeline poster and track the different stages of your yearbook creation process.

Build some hype! Promote and market your yearbook to help you sell more copies. The more people you can get to buy your book, the easier it becomes to sell at a lower price. Don’t be afraid to try all the free tools available out there such as social media, email campaigns and more.

Having a team is great. They save you time and add value to your book. Keep in mind that creating a yearbook is an all-round project including design, writing, communication, marketing and many more skills. Surround yourself with the right people and enjoy!

WRITERS
Do you know any students with a gift for writing? Convince them to be part of the team!

PHOTOGRAPHERS
Are there any talented photographers in your school? Or will you work with a professional for student photos?

EDITORS
Having a sharp eye for spelling and grammar is essential for your yearbook — find the best people for this task.

DESIGNERS
Having good taste is one thing, making great designs is something else. Find people with both qualities.

MARKETERS
Is there anyone you know who’s talkative or a natural salesperson? Get them on board to promote the yearbook.

AND MORE
Someone great at maths can be your accountant. A charismatic leader can be your project’s voice, and so on…

So, in this first chapter, we’ve listed all the things you need to get started on a yearbook project. As you see, you don’t need much – it’s just a matter of being well prepared. Now that you’re ready, let’s talk about building a good Editorial Concept.

Don’t forget! There’s also a printable version of this guide (a free 40 page eBook) that you can download here.

To make the most of these resources, we recommend you access your trial account. As you try your favourite tips and tricks directly, it will be easier for you to understand!

NOTE: this guide is part of our collection How to make a yearbook. You’ll find more guides like this here.