Manuscript Preparation Checklist for Authors
Preparing a manuscript for submission does not have to be complicated. This manuscript preparation checklist helps authors organize their work, review essential details, and make sure their book is ready for editorial consideration.
Whether you are submitting your first book or preparing a new project, a clean and organized manuscript allows editors to focus on what matters most: your story, ideas, voice, and potential.
Before You Submit Your Manuscript
Complete Your Draft
Make sure your manuscript represents the strongest version you can reasonably prepare. It does not need to be professionally formatted or perfectly edited before submission, but it should be complete enough for meaningful editorial review.
Check Your Basic Formatting
Use a clean, readable document. Standard formatting usually includes:
- .doc or .docx format
- Readable 11 or 12 point font
- Consistent paragraph spacing
- Clear chapter headings
- Page numbers where appropriate
- Minimal decorative formatting
Review Your Word Count
Know the approximate total word count of your manuscript. Word count helps editors understand the scope of the project and evaluate production requirements.
Prepare Your Supporting Materials
Write a Book Synopsis
Prepare a concise overview of your book covering the central idea, major themes, audience, and overall direction.
Prepare an Author Bio
Include a short professional biography explaining your background, relevant experience, previous publications, or connection to the subject.
Identify Your Target Audience
Be prepared to explain who the book is for and why those readers would be interested.
Final Manuscript Check
Review spelling, chapter order, missing sections, duplicate text, formatting inconsistencies, and obvious errors before submitting.
You do not need to create a finished book design. Editorial review comes before professional interior formatting and production.