Double space your paragraphs when you type your manuscript. Use a readable font like Times Roman or Dark Courier. Use a 12-point font size for whatever font you use. Set the margins for the left, right, bottom and top of the manuscript at 2.5 centimeters (1 inch). Avoid "widows" and "orphans", which are paragraphs that break to the next page in the middle of the paragraph. Indent each paragraph 1.25 centimeters (1/2 inch).
Create a cover page. Cover pages are necessary for both nonfiction and fiction books. Type the title halfway down the page and center it. Skip two lines and type your name and pseudonym if applicable in this format: Gwen Smith/Alice Wonderland. Skip two lines. Type your name and contact information including address, telephone and e-mail. Type your agent's name and contact information if you are using a literary agent to get your book published. Skip two lines and type the word-count of the proposed book. Start the first chapter halfway down the page with the number or title of the chapter. Do not type contact information on the chapter page. Begin each book chapter on its own page, beginning halfway down the page.
Create a running header for each page. A running header tells the publisher that this is your book if pages become disconnected from the manuscript. Type your last name, title of the book and then the page number. For example, Wonderland/My Favourite Cat/3. Do not use a running header on the first page of the book.
Research the submission guidelines of the publishing company. Many companies only accept manuscripts from authors that employ literary agents to sell their manuscripts. Submit your manuscript to the publishing company or to a literary agent for consideration either in paper form or by e-mail. Note that some literary agents who accept manuscripts from outside the United Kingdom charge higher fees for international authors to cover the cost of doing business at a distance.
Use professional grade paper when you print your manuscript. Print manuscripts on paper that is 8 inches by 11 inches on 20 pound white bond paper and send to the publisher or literary agent.
Proofread your manuscript in the same way as if you were sending the document to a traditional publisher. However, do not yet format the manuscript.
Find a print-on-demand business that also handles e-commerce sales by searching the Internet. If you are overseas and not able to sell the books in person, this is a more convenient way to market your books. Often these companies will also sell you ISBNs (International Standard Book Number) in their publishing package. Buy ISBNs if the company does not provide them. These come in quantities of 10.
Have a professional graphic artist design your book cover or choose a cover that the print-on-demand company provides as part of its service.
Format your manuscript according to the print-on-demand company's specifications for submitted manuscripts. Send the manuscript and graphics for the book and book cover along with any special printing instructions in the file type requested by the publishing company. Some companies will accept your manuscript in PDF form but many would like Microsoft Word .doc or .docx form.