Manuscript Submission

There’s a right way and a wrong way for successful submissions

This manuscript submission page is part of: ‘Writing for Kids’‘Writing for Kids’

Although I’m directing this section primarily towards the child book writer, this submission format is considered to be the correct protocol for both Agents and Publishers and covers any genre.

There are many points to consider when making your submission, and they all play a crucial role in getting your work in front of the all important decision maker. Is my manuscript submission ready?

Is it as good as I can possibly get it?

Is it in the required format?

How much do I actually submit?

To whom do I apply?

Are they accepting new writers?

Are they accepting my genre?

Do they charge fees?

How many manuscript submissions should I make?

How long should I wait for a response?

Should I re-apply?

Like I said, there’s lots to consider.

When I first started writing, finding the answers to these questions was a very tedious and time-consuming process. The Internet was in its infancy, and there just wasn’t that much good info around.

Now however, it seems every man and his whippet is an expert on submitting a manuscript successfully, and they all have fabulously designed websites, virtually guaranteeing your success, to prove it!

Submitting A Manuscript

Is it as good as I can possibly get it? You’ve dotted your i’s and crossed your t’s, but you’re still not sure if your book submission is ready, and could really do with a second opinion.

Never ask family or friends, they’ll just butter your crumpet. Proofreaders and editors are probably the best way to go, and I’d highly recommend using one. But, a word of caution!

Make sure that they’re credible, notable, knowledgeable in your specific genre, and that they’re not just in it for the $$$!

Is my manuscript in the required format?

Well that’s the easy part. The following guidelines are expected with any manuscript submission.

Your work should be typed and presented on plain white A4 paper.

Times New Roman font is preferred.

Font size should be number 12.

Double line spaces are required for edits.

Wide left and right margins are also required for edits.

How much do I actually submit?

This depends totally on individual agents or publisher’s requirements at any given time, so extensive research will be required. Most agents and publishers will not accept an unsolicited manuscript submission.

An introductory letter and a sample chapter or synopsis is usually the way to go.

But again, research your prospect before submitting a manuscript.

The, ‘Writers and Artists year book’, is an excellent source of reference and is updated annually to keep pace with current trends and requirements.

To whom do I apply?

Submitting a manuscript to a publisher directly is quite possibly not the greatest choice in the world. However, there are exceptions to any rule, and you may find you strike gold first time out.

Finding a good agent would be my choice; publishers tend to take you a lot more seriously if you have representation.

Any editor worth their salt would most certainly be successfully published, held in high regard within the industry, have a lot of connections, and able to steer you firmly in the right direction.

Are they accepting new writers?

Are they accepting my genre?

Do they charge fees?

Okay, you’ve decided to go it alone and you’re ready to make your manuscript submission. Time to look for an agent.

To avoid duplication within my site, please refer to the following pages.

Manuscript Submission - ‘Agents and Publishers’

Child Book Submission - ‘Literary Agents’

How many manuscript submissions should I make?

It is generally considered good form not to make more than three or four applications at any one time. This avoids one or more agents or publishers being disgruntled should you have to reject one of them, should you get more than one offer for your work.

You should be so lucky!

Your research will prove invaluable here, as you may not find that many acceptable avenues for your work. Once you’ve burnt out all your options, where do you go from there?

This is why I’d strongly advise the guidance and recommendations of a professional editor. Sure, you’ll have to pay, but what is the price of failure? How long should I wait for a response?

Statistically, from every four submissions you make, two will be unanswered, one will be rejected, and you may get a polite letter from the other. And don’t expect this process to take any less than three months. Agents and publishers aren’t renowned for being shakers and movers.

Should I re-apply?

A polite telephone enquiry after about eight weeks is not unreasonable, but don’t push it, you’ll only ruin your chances. If no response is forth coming, cut your losses and move on.

One piece of advice I’d like to offer on this is, don’t ever alienate a prospect, you never know when you might need them again. And always approach everyone and everything in a polite and courteous fashion.

The publishing world is a small one and everyone talks.

I hope you find this information useful and informative, and wish you every success in your successful manuscript submissions.

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