How to Prepare Your Manuscript for Submission
You’ve written your manuscript—congratulations! Completing a book is a huge accomplishment and I hope you are taking the time to celebrate!
Now, you might be wondering what is next? Time to start submitting your book to publishers? Great idea! But before you hit “send” on that submission email, there are a few critical steps to ensure your work is polished, professional, and ready for agents, publishers, or contests. Here’s a step-by-step guide to preparing your manuscript for submission.
Who is the Book Submission Process For?
The submission process is primarily for fiction writers who are seeking traditional publication through literary agents or publishers. Whether you’re submitting to a small press, a major publishing house, or querying an agent, following the correct steps is crucial to making a strong impression. If you’re entering a writing contest, similar preparation applies, though guidelines may differ.
What is the Book Submission Process?
Submitting a manuscript typically involves sending a query letter, synopsis, and sample pages (or the full manuscript) to a literary agent or publisher. The process includes:
Researching agents and publishers to find the best fit for your genre and style.
Following submission guidelines specific to each agent or publisher.
Preparing your manuscript, query letter, and synopsis to meet industry standards.
Sending submissions via email or online forms and waiting for a response, which may take weeks or months.
Receiving a request for more material (if an agent or editor is interested) or a rejection (which is common and not necessarily a reflection of your book’s potential).
To help you prepare for the submission process, there are eight steps you can develop to ensure your book will be a success!
1. Revise and Edit Thoroughly
Even the most brilliant story needs refining. Before submitting, ensure you have:
Completed multiple rounds of self-editing.
Addressed plot inconsistencies, pacing issues, and character development.
Eliminated filler words, unnecessary adjectives, and passive voice where possible.
Checked for grammatical and spelling errors.
Consider hiring a professional editor or enlisting beta readers for feedback. Fresh eyes can catch things you might have missed!
2. Follow Submission Guidelines
Every agent, publisher, or contest has specific submission guidelines. Ignoring them can result in automatic rejection. Be sure to:
Format your manuscript according to their requirements (e.g., font, spacing, margins).
Include all requested materials, such as a synopsis, query letter, or author bio.
Adhere to word count restrictions.
3. Polish Your Formatting
A properly formatted manuscript looks professional and is easier to read. While guidelines may vary, the standard format typically includes:
Times New Roman, 12-point font.
Double-spaced text.
One-inch margins.
Indented paragraphs (not tabbed, but formatted using your word processor’s paragraph settings).
Page numbers in the header, often with your last name and the book title.
4. Craft a Compelling Query Letter
Your query letter is your first impression when submitting to literary agents or publishers. A strong query letter should be concise, engaging, and professional. It typically includes:
A personalized greeting (avoid “To Whom It May Concern”).
A compelling hook that introduces the main conflict or premise of your book in an intriguing way.
A brief summary of your book, including the protagonist, key conflict, and stakes.
Comparable titles that show where your book fits in the market.
Your writing credentials and any relevant publishing experience.
A professional closing that invites the agent or editor to request more material.
A query letter should be no more than one page long and written in a professional yet engaging tone. Since agents and publishers receive hundreds of queries, yours must stand out while following industry expectations.
5. Write a Concise and Engaging Synopsis
A synopsis is different from a query letter—it provides a full breakdown of your story, including major plot points and the ending. Keep it:
1-2 pages long.
Written in third-person, present tense.
Focused on key characters and plot developments.
6. Prepare a Professional Author Bio
If required, your author bio should be brief and highlight relevant experience, such as:
Previous publications or writing credentials.
Education or background related to your book’s subject matter.
Fun, personal details that add personality without straying off-topic.
This can often be a challenging step for many authors. While storytelling is what you love, writing about yourself—not so much! If you need help writing your author bio, learn more about my service to make sure you story is told professional and accurately.
7. Proofread One More Time
Before submitting, do a final proofread to catch last-minute errors. Reading your manuscript aloud or using text-to-speech software can help identify awkward phrasing or typos.
8. Submit with Confidence
Once you’ve double-checked everything, submit your materials according to the specified guidelines. Then, celebrate! The submission process requires patience, so take a deep breath and trust that you’ve done the work.
Preparing your manuscript for submission takes time, but it increases your chances of success. Agents and publishers appreciate professionalism, and a well-prepared submission demonstrates your dedication. Now, go forth and submit with confidence!
