Manuscript Format Can Be the Difference Between Approval and Rejection

By [http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=Jo_M_Draper]Jo M Draper
Publishers receive piles of manuscripts on their desk every single day and with such a range of material to peruse and select from, they can afford to be very fussy when it comes to separating out the wheat from the chaff. With this in mind, one thing that writers really need to be aware of is the format in which your manuscript is created and submitted.
When creating your manuscript, whether in Word, Publisher, or a manuscript specific piece of software, there are some basic rules that you should follow, which will help you avoid that rejection bin.
Firstly, always type your document using a clear font type and size. A standard font used in publishing is Courier, size 12; however, Arial is also considered acceptable. Your pages should be double spaced with a large margin. This allows for the submissions team to annotate your manuscript clearly, making notes which will eventually inform their decisions and any editing required. All pages should be numbered and there should be a front page that details the title of the manuscript, the author's name or pen name and the total word count. If you want to look like a professional then do not make any reference to copyright laws etcetera, as this is a given and doesn't need to be spelled out.
Secondly, the format submission is vitally important. Always follow the publisher's instructions without deviation. Ordinarily, you will be asked to submit a brief synopsis and some sample chapters at the initial submission stages. If then you are lucky enough to be asked to submit a full manuscript, do so in line with the exact request. Some publishers may ask for a printed hard copy. If this is the case then only print on one side of the paper and do not bind your manuscript. Some publishers may ask for your MS to be emailed to them, and it has been known for some to ask for a hard copy, an emailed copy and an electronic version on a memory stick or similar. Whatever they ask for, make sure you deliver, not forgetting to include a stamped addressed envelope, with adequate postage to allow all of the material to be returned at no cost to the publisher.
Failing to follow simple instructions will not only hinder the review and editorial process but it may just annoy the publishers enough to mean they refuse to take on your work. No writer in their right mind would want to make that mistake!
Do you need help with editing or proofreading your manuscript? Then contact one of our [http://jmdeditorial.co.uk/copy-editing.html]professional editors at JMD Editorial and Writing Services.
Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?Manuscript-Format-Can-Be-the-Difference-Between-Approval-and-Rejection&id=6751621] Manuscript Format Can Be the Difference Between Approval and Rejection