Formatting Fundamentals: The First Step to Manuscript Success

Being a writer means mastering every role in the business—starting with the basics.

BLACK GIRL TYPING ON COMPUTER [AI]

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1. Why Formatting Matters

Proper formatting isn’t just about aesthetics; it plays a critical role in how your manuscript is received by editors and publishers. A well-formatted manuscript demonstrates professionalism and helps ensure that your work is easy to read and navigate. Here’s why it’s important:

• Professionalism: Proper formatting shows you’re serious about your work and respect the editor's time.

• Readability: Consistent formatting helps maintain clarity, making it easier for readers to focus on your content.

• Submission Standards: Not following formatting guidelines can result in your manuscript being rejected before it’s even read. Adhering to these standards shows respect for the submission process and the editors’ time. If your manuscript isn’t properly formatted, you’re essentially forcing the editor to take time to do it for you. They may not be willing to make these adjustments, especially if it’s their first time reading your work.

  
  

Industry Standards: While there is a general industry standard for formatting, it’s essential to carefully read and follow the specific submission guidelines provided by each editor or publisher. Different places might have slight variations or additional requirements. Taking the time to ensure your manuscript meets their criteria can significantly improve your chances of acceptance.

2. Common Formatting Guidelines

VISUAL OF TITLE PAGE

First Page:

• Needs your name, address [optional], contact number, email address, and author website URL in the top left corner.

• Include "Approx. ____ words" in the top right corner.

• Centered on the page, have the title in all caps and your pen name.

• At the bottom, include "© Current Year Name or Pen Name"

  • Some may say the copyright sign is not needed, but if you like to use it - it shouldn't be a big flag.

Second Page:

• Top right should have Last Name - Title [or shortened] - # [every Page, excluding the Title Page].

• About 1/3 down the page, include Title/Chapter # [if applicable], followed by text that is double-spaced with indented paragraphs.

  
  

Other Formatting Details:

• Font/Size: Times New Roman, size 12

• Margins: 1 inch all around

• Text Alignment: Left

• Line Spacing: No extra spacing between paragraphs; use “#” for scene breaks

• Chapters: Start on a new page, 1/3 down; leave 2 blank lines after the title

• End of Manuscript: Include “#” or “The End” to indicate no missing pages

• Follow Specific Instructions: Adhere to any special formatting guidelines provided by the recipient.

3. Introducing the Template

To make formatting easier, I’m providing a free downloadable template that follows industry standards. This template is designed to:

• Simplify Formatting: Save time with pre-set formatting options.

• Ensure Compliance: Meet standard submission requirements effortlessly.

• Enhance Readability: Provide a clear and professional layout for your manuscript.

  
  

Save the template on your computer and use it to copy and paste your text or save it as a new document for repeated use. This will help you maintain consistent formatting across all your manuscripts.

What do you prefer to type your manuscripts on?

• Word
• Google
• Other
• Evernote

FREE TEMPLATE BELOW:

MANUSCRIPT TEMPLATE

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