I'm using Corel X4. I need to know how to do the following:

1. Merge down all my graphics and text so as not to create any print errors

2. Ensure that it's in the proper colour standard (CMYK, 300dpi)

3. Extend my workspace area to that it is 20mm more around my page but still create crop/trim marks along the edge of my original page (full A4) and also create a 3mm bleed.

The manual isn't exactly a great help in this department. Any advice, pointers, quick tutorials, etc, would be greatly appreciated.

1. Merge down all my graphics and text so as not to create any print errors

Should not be necessary

2. Ensure that it's in the proper colour standard (CMYK, 300dpi)

Correct

3. Extend my workspace area to that it is 20mm more around my page but still create crop/trim marks along the edge of my original page (full A4) and also create a 3mm bleed.

You need to bleed any object that is on the edge of the page by 3mm to get a uniform and reliable trim the rest is managed by using a bigger page output size or using the setting in the PDF dialogue.

Lnet:

1. Merge down all my graphics and text so as not to create any print errors

If text (without lens effects) is preserved as text or curves, then it comes out at 1200 - 2450 DPI depending on output device. much better integrity and clarity on text. Otherwise I like to "flatten" or consolidate everything else underneath. go here

Lnet:

2. Ensure that it's in the proper colour standard (CMYK, 300dpi)

CMYK - OK, but 300 DPI may not retain small details as much as you hope. really depends on if offset plates are made, or if you are printing digitally. try 400 DPI for offset, and 600 for digital output.

Lnet:

3. Extend my workspace area to that it is 20mm more around my page but still create crop/trim marks along the edge of my original page (full A4) and also create a 3mm bleed.

I design with the bleed area always showing, and I make my crop lines too as part of the artwork. There is no confusion down the line this way.