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How to Write a Manuscript Novel

Formatting a novel manuscript properly may be important to a publisher. While some express more enthusiasm for the content of the story over the implementation of the formatting, others focus heavily on writers following certain guidelines demonstrating both professionalism and consideration for easy, understandable reviewing. You might choose to write in the manuscript format from the outset, or you may make adjustments after completing your novel. Publishers tend to be receptive to the following formatting methods.

Instructions

  1. Formatting

    • 1

      Format your text according to the following guidelines: make a 1.25-1.5 inch margin all the way around the text. Make your cover page. Put your name, address, phone number, and email address in the top left corner. Write the title of your novel just above the center of the page. Type "by" one double-spaced line below the title, and then your name one double-spaced line beneath it. Write the word count rounded to the nearest thousand, which may be calculated by multiplying the number of pages in your manuscript by 250. If you have an agent, put your agent's contact information on the bottom of the page, single-spaced and left justified.

    • 2

      Make a header, right justified, displaying the following information: last name/title/page number. The header should not appear on the title page.

    • 3

      Double-space the lines of your text, and double-line space scene breaks (which may also be indicated by typing "#" between paragraphs). Type chapter headings--which may be as simple as "chapter" and a number or a title--a third of the way down on a fresh page. From the title, make three double line spacings, and begin writing your text. Choose a "courier" font which, while perhaps unappealing visually, is convenient for editors. Type in size 12.

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