Jeannie Ruesch

general submission formatting guidelines

These are generalized, basic guidelines. Each submission should be tailored to the agent or editor you submit. Please be sure to visit the specific agency or publisher's website for exactly what they want you to submit. If specific information is not given, you should error on the side of caution and stick to the basics.

These guidelines, along with a submission tracker, are included in the "My WIP Notebook", available in wire-bound notebook format or edoc file.

query letter

Consider this the "resume" of your novel.

Format:
o One page only (two tops).
o Regular paper or stationary. Nothing cutesy or fancy.
o Font: Times New Roman, Size 12, Black Ink

Content:
o An intro paragraph that gives the specifics of your novel: genre, word count, if it's completed.
o Novel hook: 2 to 3 paragraph pitch of your novel. This is not a summary, but more of what you would find on the back of a book cover. Remember: HOOK the reader to want to know more.
o A brief bio paragraph highlighting your publishing credentials, any associations or groups relevant to your work, and any other information relevant to the story at hand or your career.

| See more help on query letters here. |

synopsis

	Format: o General guideline for a synopsis is to keep it as short as possible, unless the agent or editor specifically requests a long synopsis. When a specific length is not requested, limit your synopsis to 3 to 5 pages, double spaced. o Basic font: Courier New, size 12 or Times New Roman, size 12, Black Ink
	Content: o Content: The purpose of your synopsis is to show how well you plot your novel. Keep your prose clean and fresh, and focus on the main storyline. Do not leave surprises. This is where you explain the plot from beginning to end.

sample chapters

Many agents seem to request Query Letters only. Be sure to visit the prospective agent or publisher for their exact submission requirements. If you send sample chapters and they don't want them on submission, without request, they will throw away your file without even looking at it.

	Format: o Printed on 8 1/2 by 11 inch, standard white paper on ONE side of the paper only. o Spacing: Double spaced with one-inch margins all around. o Indent new paragraphs and dialogue at the normal tab key indentation. o Do NOT staple pages. Do not bind them with anything more than a paper clip or binder clip. Do not three-hole punch your paper. o Be sure to include page numbers and manuscript title/your name in the headers and footers.
	Worn pages: If you recycle your manuscript submissions, pay attention to the wear and tear on your pages. Editors and agents DO notice this. (Just read the book, The First Five Pages by Noah Lukeman if you don't believe me.) They can spot folds and marked that indicate it's been recycled --which means they know it was rejected, which could possibly taint their viewpoint.
	Content: o See agent or editor website for chapter or page count requested.

Manuscript Submission Postcards

Ever wondered if your submission actually got to its destination? Wonder no more.

Include a manuscript submission postcard with your mailed submission. When the package is opened, the postcard gets dropped in the mail - back to you - and lets you know it got where you wanted it to go.

Enjoy the peace of mind.
Get yours today!