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 proofreading 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 beta readers, 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 submission guidelines 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 header 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 title page 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 query letter and synopsis to highlight aspects of the work that align with the target audience'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