Manuscript Format
by Michael A. Banks
This is an article about how to format a hardcopy manuscript. It not only describes the format, but is literally in the proper format.
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Manuscript Format
by Michael A. Banks
This is an example of basic manuscript format. You can vary some elements, but the following conventions must be
observed:
* The manuscript must be typed or produced on a computer printer that uses a standard font (Pica or Elite). A
new ribbon is recommended.
* Your name, address, telephone number, and social security number should appear in the upper left-hand
corner of the first page.
* The rights you are offering and the approximate number of words in the manuscript should appear opposite your
name and address. (To count the number of words, multiply the average number of characters--letters, numbers,
punctuation marks, and spaces--in a line by the number of lines per page, divide that figure by 6.5, and multiply
the result by the number of pages in the manuscript.)
* A header should appear on the second and all ensuing pages, containing a key word from the title, your last name, and the page number.
* To indicate italics, underline words to be italicized, like this. (If you use a word processor or a typewriter
that allows you to change fonts, do not use literal italics! The editor will have to go through the manuscript
and underline all instances of italics for the typesetter, anyway.
Do not use fancy fonts, and do not put illustrations in your manuscript. In general, any attempt to make a manuscript look like a typeset and printed book or magazine not only looks amateurish, but also makes it difficult for an editor to make corrections and specify
typesetting.
Use a quality paper (white, 16- or 20-pound bond paper--no "onion-skin" paper). Set margins that will leave
at least half an inch all the way around. (Computer or dedicated word-processor users: set your printout for 65
characters per line, and 50 to 55 lines per 66-line page.)
The manuscript must be double-spaced, with a ragged right margin (no right justification). This leaves room for
editors to write in corrections, changes, and typesetting marks. Indent the beginning of each paragraph (anywhere
from five to eight spaces will do), and put two spaces at the end of each sentence, whether it ends with a period,
question mark, or exclamation mark. (As for other punctuation, follow the style in this manuscript, or check
The Chicago Manual of Style or the "secretary's reference" that can be found in most dictionaries.) Following these
guidelines will result in a professional-looking manuscript--and in almost any editor's office, the
manuscripts with a professional appearance are read first.
When you submit a manuscript, be sure to include a self-addressed, stamped envelope with sufficient postage for
the manuscript's return.
Good luck ... and good writing!
Copyright © 1998 Michael A. Banks. Reprinted with permission.
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