Can I convert a document to a book file?

[Shannon21811928zbnv]

Is there a way to take an existing document with 40+ chapters and export each chapter as it's own file?  I have a client that wants to create a new book using different chapters from previous books he's published.  It would be helpful if I had a seperate file for each chapter so I could build a Book File but other than doing a lot of copy and pasting I can't figure out a simpler way to pick and choose what chapters I need.

Currently, some of his books are formatted as book file and others are just document indd files.   I hope this makes sense.  Thank you for any help  you can offer!!!

[Barb Binder · Accepted solution]

Essentially, all of the content needs to be individual InDesign documents. Once they are broken up, you can pull them all together into a new book.

I would just open up an existing file and remove any content that you don't need. Then save that with a logical name. Repeat that process until all of the files are individual InDesign documents.

~Barb 

[Eugene Tyson]

Yes - that's how I would do it too.

[Shannon21811928zbnv]

Thank you, Barb.  This is what I have been doing so thank you for confirming that I wasn't overlooking another option. I was just hoping for a magical way to do it faster.  Thank you for your help.  

[Geоrge]

some helpful script for "cut" and create a files from one file - https://creativepro.com/free-script-splits-long-indesign-files/ 

[Shannon21811928zbnv]

Hi George,

WOW!  This sounds like a wonderful option.  I'll check it out.  I'm new to using scripts but am becoming very facinated and excited at all the possibilities out there and the wonderful script creators!!  Thank you for sharing.