Prefaceing

Prefaceing is a nonstandard term referring to the act of composing or providing a preface for a publication. A preface is an introductory material placed at the beginning of a work, usually written by the author, that explains purpose, scope, and context, and may acknowledge individuals or organizations that contributed to the project. In publishing practice, prefaces are distinct from forewords, which are typically written by someone other than the author, and from introductions, which often analyze the work’s content rather than its creation.

Etymology and usage: The word preface comes from Latin roots meaning “before” and “to make.” The verb form preface is standard, with prefacing as the gerund. The spelling “prefaceing” is uncommon and not widely used in formal writing; most guidance favors prefacing or writing a preface.

Content and purpose: A preface usually addresses the author’s motivation, the work’s aims, its intended audience, and the methods or research behind the project. It may include acknowledgments of mentors, funders, or collaborators, and it can outline the structure of the book or note revisions from earlier editions. The tone is often reflective, informative, and oriented toward reader expectations.

Relation to other front matter: The preface is part of front matter but distinct from a foreword and an introduction. The preface is authored by the book’s writer and reflects the creation process, while a foreword is usually an external endorsement and an introduction may be more analytical about the work’s content.

Process and style: Writing a preface invites consideration of what readers should know before beginning the text. Editors may suggest revisions for clarity or focus. Prefaces can be concise or substantial, depending on publication norms and author preference.