How to Successfully Submit Your Manuscript to a Publisher: A Comprehensive Guide
Submitting your book manuscript to a publisher can feel like sending a message in a bottle across a vast ocean. The publishing world is competitive, and navigating the submission process can be daunting for even the most seasoned writers. However, with meticulous preparation, a professional approach, and a dash of persistence, you can significantly increase your chances of getting your book published. This comprehensive guide will walk you through each step of the process, from preparing your manuscript to crafting a compelling query letter and following up with publishers.
## Step 1: Polishing Your Manuscript to Perfection
Before you even *think* about submitting your manuscript, it needs to be the absolute best it can be. This isn’t just about running a spell-check. This stage is about ensuring your story is compelling, your characters are believable, and your writing is technically sound. Think of it as building a solid foundation for your house – without it, everything else will crumble.
* **Multiple Rounds of Self-Editing:** Don’t rely solely on your first draft. Put your manuscript aside for a week or two (or even a month, if you can). This gives you fresh eyes to spot errors and inconsistencies you may have missed before. When you return to it, read it as if you were a reader picking it up for the first time. Ask yourself:
* Is the plot engaging and well-paced?
* Are the characters well-developed and relatable?
* Does the story flow smoothly?
* Are there any plot holes or inconsistencies?
* Is the dialogue realistic and engaging?
* **Professional Editing:** Consider hiring a professional editor. While it requires an investment, a good editor can provide invaluable feedback on your manuscript’s structure, plot, character development, and overall writing quality. Look for an editor with experience in your genre. There are different types of editing services:
* **Developmental Editing:** This focuses on the big picture – the plot, characters, structure, and overall concept of your story. A developmental editor will help you identify and address any major weaknesses in your manuscript.
* **Line Editing:** This focuses on the writing style, tone, and clarity. A line editor will help you refine your prose and ensure your writing is clear, concise, and engaging.
* **Copyediting:** This focuses on grammar, spelling, punctuation, and consistency. A copyeditor will ensure your manuscript is free of errors.
* **Proofreading:** This is the final stage of editing, where the manuscript is checked for any remaining errors before publication.
* **Beta Readers:** Before sending your manuscript to a professional editor, consider having beta readers review it. These are trusted friends, family members, or fellow writers who can provide feedback from a reader’s perspective. Choose beta readers who are familiar with your genre and whose opinions you value. Ask them specific questions about what they liked and disliked about your manuscript. Be prepared to receive constructive criticism.
## Step 2: Researching and Identifying Potential Publishers
Not all publishers are created equal. Some specialize in certain genres, while others have different submission guidelines and requirements. It’s crucial to research and identify publishers who are a good fit for your book. Sending your manuscript to the wrong publisher is like trying to fit a square peg into a round hole – it simply won’t work.
* **Genre Alignment:** This is the most critical factor. Publishers typically specialize in specific genres, such as romance, science fiction, mystery, or historical fiction. Sending a science fiction novel to a publisher who only publishes romance novels is a waste of time and effort. Carefully research the genres that each publisher specializes in before submitting your manuscript.
* **Publisher Size and Reputation:** Consider the size and reputation of the publisher. Large publishers often have more resources for marketing and distribution, but they may also be more difficult to break into. Smaller, independent publishers may be more receptive to new authors, but they may have fewer resources. Research the publisher’s track record and reputation before submitting your manuscript. Look at the books they’ve published, the reviews they’ve received, and the authors they’ve worked with.
* **Submission Guidelines:** Each publisher has its own specific submission guidelines. These guidelines outline the format in which they want to receive manuscripts, the information they require in the query letter, and the preferred method of submission (e.g., email, online form, postal mail). Carefully read and follow the submission guidelines of each publisher you are considering. Failing to follow the guidelines can result in your manuscript being rejected without even being read.
* **Agented vs. Unagented Submissions:** Some publishers only accept submissions from literary agents. If you don’t have an agent, you’ll need to focus on publishers that accept unagented submissions. However, having a literary agent can significantly increase your chances of getting published, as agents have established relationships with publishers and can advocate for your work.
* **Resources for Finding Publishers:**
* **Writer’s Market:** This is an annual directory that lists hundreds of publishers, literary agents, and other resources for writers.
* **Publishers Marketplace:** This online database provides information on publishing deals, agents, and publishers.
* **QueryTracker:** This website allows you to track your query submissions and see which agents and publishers are currently accepting submissions in your genre.
* **Publisher websites:** Visit the websites of publishers you are interested in to learn more about their submission guidelines and the types of books they publish.
## Step 3: Crafting a Compelling Query Letter
The query letter is your first impression on a publisher. It’s a brief, persuasive letter that introduces your book and yourself as an author. Think of it as a sales pitch – you need to convince the publisher that your book is worth reading. A well-written query letter can be the key to getting your manuscript read, while a poorly written one can lead to instant rejection.
* **Keep it Concise:** Aim for a single page. Publishers are busy people, and they don’t have time to read lengthy query letters. Get straight to the point and highlight the most important aspects of your book.
* **Hook the Reader:** Start with a compelling hook that grabs the publisher’s attention. This could be a provocative question, a surprising statistic, or a captivating scene from your book.
* **Summarize Your Book:** Provide a brief, engaging summary of your book’s plot. Focus on the main conflict, the key characters, and the overall theme. Avoid giving away too much of the plot – you want to pique the publisher’s interest without revealing all the surprises.
* **Highlight Your Credentials:** Briefly mention your writing credentials and experience. Have you won any awards? Have you been published in literary magazines? Do you have any relevant expertise that relates to your book? If you don’t have any formal writing credentials, focus on your passion for writing and your dedication to your craft.
* **Target Audience and Marketability:** Explain who your target audience is and why your book is marketable. What makes your book unique and appealing to readers? What other books are similar to yours, and how does yours stand out? This demonstrates that you understand the market and have a clear vision for your book’s potential.
* **Personalize the Letter:** Avoid sending generic query letters. Research the publisher or editor you are contacting and personalize your letter to show that you have done your homework. Mention a book they have published that you admire, or explain why you think your book would be a good fit for their list.
* **Professional Tone:** Use a professional and respectful tone throughout your query letter. Avoid being arrogant, demanding, or overly familiar. Remember that you are trying to establish a professional relationship with the publisher.
* **Proofread Carefully:** Before sending your query letter, proofread it carefully for any errors in grammar, spelling, and punctuation. A sloppy query letter will create a negative impression and decrease your chances of getting your manuscript read.
* **The Basic Structure of a Query Letter:**
* **Salutation:** Address the specific editor or agent by name. Research who the appropriate person is at the publishing house. If you can’t find a name, use a generic salutation such as “Dear Editor.”
* **Hook:** Start with a compelling hook that grabs the reader’s attention.
* **Book Summary:** Provide a brief, engaging summary of your book’s plot.
* **Author Bio:** Briefly mention your writing credentials and experience.
* **Target Audience and Marketability:** Explain who your target audience is and why your book is marketable.
* **Closing:** Thank the editor for their time and consideration, and express your eagerness to hear from them.
* **Call to Action:** Clearly state that you have attached your manuscript (or sample chapters) for their review.
* **Signature:** Sign your name.
## Step 4: Preparing Your Manuscript for Submission
Your manuscript should be professionally formatted and free of errors. This shows the publisher that you are serious about your work and that you have taken the time to present it in the best possible light. Formatting guidelines can vary from publisher to publisher, so always refer to their specific requirements.
* **Standard Manuscript Format:** While specific guidelines vary, a common standard is:
* **Font:** Times New Roman, 12-point font.
* **Margins:** 1-inch margins on all sides.
* **Spacing:** Double-spaced.
* **Indentation:** Indent the first line of each paragraph by 0.5 inches.
* **Page Numbers:** Include page numbers in the upper right-hand corner.
* **Header:** Include your last name and the title of your book in the header of each page.
* **Title Page:** The title page should include the following information:
* The title of your book.
* Your name.
* Your contact information (address, phone number, email address).
* Your word count.
* **Synopsis (If Required):** Some publishers may require a synopsis of your book. A synopsis is a brief summary of your entire plot, including the ending. It should be no more than one or two pages long. Check the specific submission guidelines of the publisher to see if a synopsis is required.
* **Sample Chapters (If Required):** Many publishers will ask for the first few chapters of your manuscript. Make sure these chapters are polished and engaging, as they will be the first impression the publisher has of your writing.
* **File Format:** Most publishers prefer to receive manuscripts in Microsoft Word (.doc or .docx) format. However, some may also accept PDF files. Check the specific submission guidelines of the publisher to see which file format they prefer.
## Step 5: Submitting Your Manuscript
Once you have prepared your manuscript and query letter, you are ready to submit it to publishers. Be sure to follow the specific submission guidelines of each publisher you are targeting.
* **Email Submissions:** Many publishers accept submissions via email. When submitting your manuscript via email, be sure to include your query letter in the body of the email and attach your manuscript as a separate file.
* **Online Submission Forms:** Some publishers use online submission forms. These forms typically require you to provide information about your book and yourself, and to upload your manuscript and query letter.
* **Postal Submissions:** Some publishers still accept submissions via postal mail. If submitting your manuscript via postal mail, be sure to include a self-addressed, stamped envelope (SASE) for the return of your manuscript if it is not accepted.
* **Simultaneous Submissions:** It’s generally acceptable to submit your manuscript to multiple publishers at the same time (simultaneous submissions). However, be sure to inform each publisher that you are submitting your manuscript to other publishers. If one publisher offers you a contract, you will need to inform the other publishers that you are withdrawing your manuscript from consideration.
## Step 6: Following Up (With Patience)
After submitting your manuscript, it’s important to be patient. Publishers receive a large volume of submissions, and it can take several weeks or even months to hear back from them. However, it’s also acceptable to follow up with the publisher after a reasonable amount of time has passed.
* **Check the Publisher’s Guidelines:** Some publishers explicitly state their response time in their submission guidelines. If so, adhere to that timeline.
* **Wait a Reasonable Time:** If the publisher doesn’t specify a response time, wait at least three months before following up. Remember that publishers are often inundated with submissions and have a backlog to work through.
* **Keep Your Follow-Up Brief and Polite:** When you do follow up, keep your email or letter brief and polite. Reiterate your interest in the publisher’s consideration and politely inquire about the status of your submission. Do *not* be demanding or accusatory. Remember, you’re building a relationship.
* **Don’t Overdo It:** Avoid sending multiple follow-up emails or letters. If you haven’t heard back from the publisher after a reasonable amount of time, it’s likely that they are not interested in your manuscript.
* **Track Your Submissions:** Keep a record of the publishers you have submitted to, the date of submission, and any follow-up correspondence. This will help you stay organized and avoid submitting to the same publisher twice.
## Step 7: Handling Rejection (It’s Part of the Process!)
Rejection is a common part of the publishing process. Even the most successful authors have faced rejection at some point in their careers. Don’t take rejection personally. Instead, view it as an opportunity to learn and improve your writing.
* **Don’t Give Up:** The most important thing is to not give up. If you believe in your book, keep submitting it to publishers until you find one that is a good fit.
* **Analyze Feedback (If Provided):** Some publishers may provide feedback on your manuscript when they reject it. If you receive feedback, take it seriously and consider how you can use it to improve your writing. However, remember that not all feedback is created equal. Use your own judgment to determine which feedback is helpful and which is not.
* **Revise and Resubmit:** If you receive consistent feedback from multiple publishers, consider revising your manuscript based on that feedback. Once you have made the necessary revisions, you can resubmit your manuscript to the same publishers or to new publishers.
* **Consider Self-Publishing:** If you have exhausted all traditional publishing options, you may want to consider self-publishing. Self-publishing has become increasingly popular in recent years, and it can be a viable option for authors who are unable to find a traditional publisher. However, be aware that self-publishing requires you to take on all of the responsibilities of a publisher, including editing, formatting, cover design, marketing, and distribution.
## Key Takeaways for Successful Manuscript Submission
* **Professionalism is Paramount:** From the format of your manuscript to the tone of your query letter, every aspect of your submission should exude professionalism.
* **Research is Essential:** Thoroughly research potential publishers to ensure they are a good fit for your genre and writing style.
* **Patience is a Virtue:** The publishing process can be lengthy and require persistence. Be patient and don’t get discouraged by rejections.
* **Continuous Improvement:** Always strive to improve your writing skills and learn from your mistakes. Attend workshops, read books on writing, and seek feedback from other writers.
Submitting your manuscript to a publisher is a challenging but rewarding process. By following these steps, you can increase your chances of getting your book published and sharing your story with the world. Good luck!