So You Think You Can Write?

The Right Apparel

Okay, before we divulge into self publishing versus agent versus direct to publishing query, let’s sit down and review the basics.

Now a word you must assume as your mantra until you sell the hundredth thousand copy of your book, Professionalism.  

Oh so long Nika! So terribly long, and so SQUARE!

Yes, yes it is, terribly square, but in this case, it is hip to be square. You need to be hip because the focus will be on your writing and your submission is a reflection of that. Don’t let your work go out in curlers and her ratty bathrobe! Dress that bitch up and make her sexy and classy enough to get those agents and publishers clamoring to be the first at her.   

Let’s start with Manuscript formatting sample (the example of your writing)

Use white 8 ½ x11, 20-lb bond paper (this is a standard type of paper) if mailing

Choose a professional font, (times new roman, ext…) DO NOT USE fancy font and do not use bold or italic in your heading.  (done here for example purposes)

11 pt or 12 pt font size looks most professional, 10pt is like squinting and 14 is just loud

Your entire manuscript should be double spaced with a 1 ½ inch margin on all sides of the page.  

Indent where needed, indent where needed (that bears repeating)

And remember, the format on Wattpad is different than normal format in order to ensure easier reading. Check traditional English basics for paragraph structuring prior to submitting.

Now to format the first page:

*Begin in the top left corner with your name (real name, not pseudonym) and contact information

Nunya Bizness                                                                             50,000 words

123 Awesome St.

Sun Daygo, CA 12345

619.123.4567

nikayaya@gmail.com

(you can add your website underneath your email if applicable)

*Place your word count across from your name in the top right hand corner of the page.

*double space twice after the last line in your contact information and begin your title in all capital letters

                                                 THE PRINCE IN WHITE LOAFERS

                                                  *double space again and type by

                                                                       By

                 *double space again and type your name or pseudonym if you have one

                                                               Nika Yaya

*center your title, by, and name on page and then double space again to start your manuscript

                *makes sure you indent (hey this is the third time I have said this, think it’s important?

*Make sure you type your name-page number in the upper left or right corner of each additional page

                                                                                                     Nika Yaya-pg.2

This is only the format for your manuscript; we will touch on Query letters in the agent and publishing portion. Please make sure you have someone read over what you have PRIOR to submitting. It may be a simple mistake to you, but it can be a deal breaker for them.

 Hey I don’t make the rules; I’m just helping you understand them.

Next chapter will touch on contests…

*information gathered from many sources and weighed for the average.*