What prepress (file setup) guidelines should I follow when setting up my print files?

Every production method comes with a different set of requirements, but here are some general rules to follow: • Color Mode: CMYK. • Special Colors: Assign PMS colors when desired, but avoid color altering effects with spot colors when possible (transparency effects, drop shadows, etc..) • Bleed: .375” outside, .25” inside. • Resolution: 300ppi recommended, 150ppi minimum. • File Size: Not to exceed 1.5GB • File Format: Adobe Illustrator .ai, .eps, or Illustrator compatible PDF.