Preparing your work for submission is a crucial step in the publishing process. It involves refining your narrative, ensuring clarity and coherence, and adhering to industry standards. This attention to detail can significantly impact your chances of success.
Proper formatting, crafting compelling query letters, and thorough are essential elements of a polished submission. These steps demonstrate professionalism and respect for editors and agents, increasing your likelihood of standing out in a competitive field.
Narrative Revision for Clarity and Coherence
Revision for Improved Effectiveness and Impact
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Make substantive changes to content, structure, and style to enhance overall effectiveness and impact on the reader
Evaluate and adjust pacing, tension, and character development to engage and satisfy the reader
Ensure that all narrative elements (setting, character, plot, theme) work together harmoniously to achieve the desired effect
Consider feedback from , writing groups, or workshops to identify areas for improvement
Editing for Clarity and Precision
Refine language, grammar, and mechanics to ensure clarity and precision
Adhere to conventions of standard written English (proper punctuation, consistent verb tenses, subject-verb agreement)
Eliminate redundancy, wordiness, and unclear or ambiguous language
Vary sentence structure and length to create a smooth, engaging reading experience
Maintain a consistent narrative voice and tone throughout the piece
Coherence in Narrative Flow and Unity
Ensure logical flow and unity of the narrative
Use effective transitions between scenes, chapters, or sections to maintain continuity
Develop and resolve subplots in a way that supports the main storyline
Maintain consistent characterization and character arcs throughout the narrative
Tie together all narrative elements to convey the intended meaning and theme
Adherence to Submission Guidelines
Review and follow specific for the targeted publication or contest
Adhere to requirements for word count, formatting, genre, theme, and other criteria
Tailor the narrative to fit the preferences and expectations of the intended audience
Ensure that the submitted work aligns with the mission, vision, and values of the publication or organization
Manuscript Formatting for Industry Standards
Standard Manuscript Formatting
Use a standard, easy-to-read font (Times New Roman or Arial) in 12-point size
Apply double-spacing throughout the manuscript
Set one-inch margins on all sides of the document
Indent the first line of each paragraph by 0.5 inches
Use a single space after periods and other punctuation marks
Title Page and Header Information
Include the author's name, contact information, word count, and brief synopsis or logline on the first page
Place a on each subsequent page with the author's last name and page number in the top right corner
Center the title of the work about one-third of the way down the first page
Begin the narrative text on the second page, unless otherwise specified by submission guidelines
File Format and Specific Requirements
Save the manuscript in the required file format (.doc, .docx, .rtf, or other specified format)
Follow any specific guidelines for page numbering, such as using a different numbering system for the or starting page numbers on the second page
Include a cover letter or other required documents as specified by the publication or contest guidelines
Ensure that all elements of the submission package (manuscript, cover letter, synopsis) are complete, properly formatted, and free of errors
Query Letters and Synopses for Editors and Agents
Crafting Effective Query Letters
Open with a brief, professional introduction of the author and their work
Include a compelling hook or opening that immediately captures the reader's attention (provocative question, intriguing statement, or relevant statistic)
Provide a concise summary of the story's main conflict, characters, and stakes
Highlight the author's relevant writing credentials, experience, or previous publications
Demonstrate knowledge of the editor, agent, or publication being targeted and explain why the work is a good fit for their preferences and market
Writing Compelling Synopses
Summarize the entire narrative in a concise manner, typically in 500-800 words
Include the main characters, central conflict, key plot points, and resolution
Write in present tense and third person, regardless of the narrative's original tense and point of view
Convey the unique voice, style, and tone of the narrative while maintaining clarity and brevity
Focus on the main story arc and avoid including subplots or minor characters that do not directly impact the central conflict
Tailoring to the Target Audience
Research the specific editor, agent, or publication to understand their preferences, submission guidelines, and the types of works they represent
Customize the and synopsis to highlight aspects of the work that align with the 's interests and needs
Use language and terminology that demonstrates familiarity with the genre, market, or literary community being targeted
Avoid a one-size-fits-all approach and ensure that each submission is tailored to the specific recipient for the best chance of success
Proofreading for Polished Submissions
Identifying Common Errors
Check for typos, misspellings, and missing or repeated words
Review punctuation for accuracy and consistency (comma placement, quotation marks, apostrophes)
Ensure consistent capitalization and hyphenation throughout the manuscript
Verify that formatting elements (margins, font size, line spacing) adhere to submission guidelines
Look for inconsistencies in character names, place names, or other key details
Effective Proofreading Techniques
Read the manuscript aloud to identify awkward phrasing, run-on sentences, or unintended repetition
Use a ruler or other guide to review each line of text individually, helping to focus attention on one line at a time
Proofread the manuscript multiple times, focusing on different aspects (grammar, punctuation, formatting) in each pass
Enlist the help of a trusted peer, beta reader, or professional proofreader for an objective review and fresh perspective
Allow sufficient time between writing and proofreading to approach the work with a clear, unbiased mindset
Demonstrating Professionalism and Attention to Detail
Present a polished, error-free manuscript that showcases the author's commitment to quality and professionalism
Ensure that all elements of the submission package (query letter, synopsis, manuscript) are well-written, properly formatted, and free of errors
Demonstrate respect for the editor or agent's time and attention by submitting work that is thoroughly reviewed and refined
Enhance the author's reputation and credibility within the literary community by consistently producing high-quality, carefully crafted submissions
Increase the likelihood of acceptance and success in the competitive publishing industry by presenting work that stands out for its polish and attention to detail
Key Terms to Review (18)
Beta Readers: Beta readers are individuals who read a manuscript before it is published to provide feedback and insights from a reader's perspective. Their role is crucial in the revision process, as they help identify strengths and weaknesses in the story, characters, and overall writing. Feedback from beta readers can guide authors in making necessary revisions to enhance the quality of their work before submission.
Character Arc: A character arc refers to the transformation or inner journey of a character throughout a story, often involving a change in their beliefs, values, or personality as a result of the experiences they face. This growth or regression is closely tied to the plot and conflict, creating a deeper connection between the character's evolution and the overall narrative.
Copyediting: Copyediting is the process of reviewing and correcting written material to improve clarity, readability, and overall quality while ensuring consistency in style and grammar. This crucial step involves checking for errors in spelling, punctuation, grammar, and formatting, making it essential for preparing a manuscript for submission. A thorough copyedit not only polishes the text but also enhances its professionalism and ensures that it meets publication standards.
Critique group: A critique group is a collective of writers who come together to review and provide feedback on each other's work, fostering a supportive environment for improving writing skills. Members share their drafts, engage in discussions about strengths and weaknesses, and suggest revisions, which helps enhance the quality of their writing. This collaborative effort not only aids individual development but also builds community among writers.
Final draft: A final draft is the last version of a written work that has undergone multiple revisions and edits to ensure clarity, coherence, and correctness. This stage is critical as it represents the author's polished work, ready for submission or publication. The final draft is characterized by its refinement in terms of structure, grammar, and style, showcasing the writer's best effort.
Full manuscript: A full manuscript is the complete, polished version of a narrative work, prepared for submission to agents, publishers, or competitions. It includes all sections of the story, typically formatted according to industry standards, and reflects the author's final revisions and edits, demonstrating readiness for professional evaluation.
Generic queries: Generic queries refer to broad and often vague inquiries made to literary agents or publishers about a submitted work, lacking specificity regarding the manuscript's genre, target audience, or unique selling points. These queries can lead to confusion or miscommunication, as they do not effectively convey the distinctiveness of the work, which is crucial in the competitive landscape of submissions.
Header: A header is a section at the top of a document that typically contains important information about the work, such as the title, author's name, and page number. This essential element provides a consistent point of reference for readers, ensuring they can easily identify and navigate the document while also adhering to submission guidelines.
Literary agent: A literary agent is a professional representative who advocates for authors and their written works, primarily in the publishing industry. They help writers prepare their manuscripts for submission, negotiate contracts, and navigate the complex world of publishing, acting as a crucial intermediary between authors and publishers.
Overly long bios: Overly long bios refer to excessively detailed biographies of authors that can detract from the main work being submitted. While providing background can be important, lengthy bios can overwhelm readers, lead to disinterest, or create a perception of unprofessionalism, especially during the submission process.
Plot Outline: A plot outline is a structured framework that summarizes the key events and main ideas of a narrative, providing a clear roadmap for the story. This outline helps writers organize their thoughts, ensuring that each element of the plot serves a purpose and leads to a cohesive and engaging narrative.
Proofreading: Proofreading is the process of reviewing a written work to identify and correct errors in grammar, punctuation, spelling, and formatting. This final step before submission ensures that the piece is polished and free of mistakes, which is crucial for making a strong impression on potential publishers or readers. Effective proofreading can significantly improve the clarity and professionalism of a narrative, helping it stand out in a competitive publishing landscape.
Query letter: A query letter is a concise, professional letter sent to literary agents or publishers to pitch a manuscript or book idea before submitting the full work. This letter serves as an introduction to the author and their writing, providing essential information about the work, including its genre, word count, and a brief synopsis. A well-crafted query letter is crucial for grabbing the attention of agents or publishers in a competitive market.
Query Tracker: A query tracker is a tool that writers use to manage and monitor their submissions to literary agents and publishers. It helps writers keep track of where their work has been sent, the status of those submissions, and any responses received. This system streamlines the submission process and aids in organizing important information related to querying.
Self-editing: Self-editing is the process of reviewing and revising one's own writing to improve clarity, coherence, and overall quality before submission. It involves critical analysis of grammar, style, structure, and content to ensure the work meets the intended purpose and audience expectations.
Submission Guidelines: Submission guidelines are specific instructions provided by publishers, literary agents, or competitions regarding how to format and submit a manuscript for consideration. These guidelines are crucial as they ensure that submissions are presented in a professional manner, adhering to the preferences of the recipient, which can significantly influence the chances of acceptance.
Target audience: The target audience refers to a specific group of people for whom a piece of writing is intended. Understanding the target audience helps in shaping the content, style, and tone of a narrative to resonate with readers effectively, ensuring that the work appeals to the intended demographic.
Title page: A title page is the first page of a written document that includes essential information such as the title of the work, the author's name, and often additional details like the date and institutional affiliation. This page serves as a professional introduction to the work, setting the tone and providing necessary information for readers.