A good novel tells us the truth about its hero; but a bad novel tells us the truth about its author.”

G. K. Chesterton (1874 – 1936)*

By Tammy Hopf

When you’ve finished writing (and rewriting, and rewriting, and rewriting) your book, the next step is to format your manuscript appropriately. It would be sad to have done everything right in your manuscript, only to lose credibility because it was not formatted correctly.

Keep in mind that there is no set standard—no one size fits all. The best way to make sure your manuscript fits the proper format is to find out from the publisher. Most publishers offer guidelines online: Go to the publisher’s Web site and check for Manuscript Submission Guidelines. If you don’t see it right away, do a search.

You can also check out the FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions) area. Failing that, contact the publisher directly via phone or e-mail.

Here are some general rules of thumb for formatting your manuscript:

• Don’t be tempted to make your manuscript “stand out” by using colored ink or fancy scripts. You may think that a bright red fancy cursive might be just the thing to catch the editor’s eye, but it will make your manuscript harder to read and easier to throw in the “circular file.”

• On the title page include all your contact information (name, address, phone number, cell number, e-mail address, etc.).

• Double space the lines and leave one inch margins on all sides.

• Number each page, and put your last name and the title on every page as a header.

• Print on letter sized, white paper (typically 20#) with black ink.

• Use a standard font, like Times New Roman, size 12. Don’t make it hard for the editor to read.

• Use three number signs (#) or asterisks (*) to indicate scene or section breaks.

• If the publisher prefers the manuscript to be submitted electronically, save your manuscript in the universally standard .rtf format.

• Use your word processor’s spell check, and even better, have your manuscript professionally edited. A polished manuscript shows you take your writing seriously.

Tammy Hopf has worked with WinePress Publishing Group since 1999 and has been a project manager for eight years. As the liaison between authors and the design, typesetting, editing, and other production departments, she helps coordinate all the different aspects that transform a manuscript into a beautiful book. She enjoys working with authors to make their dreams a reality.

* http://www.quotationspage.com/quotes/G._K._Chesterton/

Additional resources on manuscript formatting:

• http://manuscript-submission.suite101.com/article.cfm/submitting_a_manuscript_for_publication
• http://resourcesforwriters.suite101.com/article.cfm/submitting_your_novel_to_publishers
• http://www.charlottedillon.com/ManuscriptPreparation.html
• http://peachtree-online.com/inner/ManuscriptGuide.aspx
• http://www.writingwriteaway.com/ART-WR-003.htm
• http://www.matilijapress.com/articles/pod-publishing-alternatives.htm