How to Submit your Manuscript
It All Begins Here
New writers can understandably feel nervous about handing their manuscript over to an editor. That's perfectly normal! An editorial assessment is designed to help you develop your work, not to catch you out. The following guidelines simply make the editing process smoother, allowing me to focus on what matters most - your writing.
When submitting a manuscript for a sample edit, a full editorial assessment or a developmental edit, please ensure it follows these standard industry guidelines:
Submit your manuscript as a Microsoft Word (.docx) document. This allows me to use Track Changes and comments to provide detailed feedback and suggestions throughout your manuscript.
Use a clear, readable font such as Times New Roman, Aptos or Helvetica.
Set your font size to 12pt and double-space your manuscript. Do not add extra spaces between paragraphs.
Number all pages. This makes it much easier to reference specific sections during the editorial process.
Don't worry about perfect formatting. You don't need to indent paragraphs or insert a dinkus (scene break marker) to indicate changes in narrative or time. I'll take care of any formatting adjustments as part of the edit.
Finally, try not to worry about making your manuscript look perfect before you send it. Editors aren't looking for flawless formatting - we're looking for a compelling story, engaging characters and a strong authorial voice. Formatting issues are easy to fix; great ideas are far more valuable.
And if you're feeling nervous about pressing 'Send', remember that every published author was once in exactly the same position. My role is to help you make your manuscript the very best it can be. An editorial assessment is a collaborative process, and my feedback is always intended to be constructive, encouraging and honest, giving you clear direction for your next stage of revision.