Manuscript format for submission

Copyright © 1996 Althea Sexton

First appearances are enduring. Once established, it is difficult to change a first impression. That is why it is very important to have the correct "look" to your submissions. Use the following guidelines to make sure that the editor knows you are a professional, not someone who hasn't done their homework.

Use good quality white paper. It isn't necessary to use 100% cotton paper, but make sure it is neat, crisp and WHITE! Don't use colors or fancy inks. No coffee cup rings or cat footprints. If you don't treat your manuscript with respect, neither will the editor.

No fancy fonts. Use Courier 12 point. In today's age of easy desktop publishing, it is tempting to dazzle with your prowess on the keyboards. The editor trying to read your manuscript will not be amused. No italics, underline instead.

Margins should be 1 to 1-1/2 inch all around. Left justify. Put your name in the upper left hand corner, the page number in the upper right hand corner.

ALWAYS include a self-addressed stamped envelope for the return of your manuscript. You can also add a return postcard to acknowledge the receipt of the manuscript, but don't count on them always being returned. Some editors don't like the postcards. Heck, some submissions don't even get opened until it is time to read them, which could be months in the future.

ALWAYS send a thank you note to the editor, even if she rejects your submission. Things like that are remembered and it might make your next submission receive a more favorable reading.

Last of all, you can't get published unless you submit your manuscript. So put your ego on the line, and send out that manuscript!