How to Prepare a Book for Publishing

You have an idea and the words come to you from deep inside, yearning to be heard. You diligently carry those words from your heart to your computer screen. Several months later, your manuscript is done. You desire to have your life's work published. You are certain your book is the only book the world has been waiting to be published for years. Then reality hits, and you don't know what you need to do to prepare your book for publication.

Things You'll Need

• Manuscript List of agents and publishers

Instructions

1. Research how to write the perfect query letter. The biggest hurdle you will have to overcome is the query letter. The query letter is your first contact with an agent or publisher. This letter explains your manuscript and introduces you to the publishing world. The format of a query letter is:
   • Lead
   • Supporting material/persuasion
   • Biography
   • Conclusion/pitch

2. Make certain your manuscript looks professional and follows the publishing world standard. Pages need to be double-spaced, normal margins and set in Times New Roman font. Make sure your facts are correct, your statements are backed up with provable facts, and your spelling and grammar correct.

3. Review your manuscript and have others review your manuscript to ensure the story flows easily. Make certain your wording is concise. Use as few words you can to make your point. Having others review your manuscript will allow another pair of eyes to see what you have overlooked.

4. Keep track of the publishers you are sending a manuscript to. List the manner of the submission, date of submission, time estimated before response and preferred method of follow up. Some agents and publishers will only contact you if they desire to proceed. They may not send a letter, email or phone call to tell you they are passing on your manuscript. If you follow up with them, they may not respond if they explained the guidelines prior to your submission.

5. Expect rejection letters--this is common. Having your book published after submitting to just one agent or publisher is not likely. The rejection letters may have important tips that will help you with your next round of manuscript submissions.