Make sure your manuscript (ms.) is in standard form before sending it to a magazine or literary publication. These pages represent you and your work, so you will want them to look professional.

Method:
The ms. should be typed or produced on a computer without erasures, type-overs, or handwritten changes. Use the front side of your paper only.

Paper:
Use good quality white paper; no cream or other colors.

Typeface:
Use clear, readable 12 pt. type; no dot matrix or pale type. A serif typeface, such as Times New Roman, is best. Do not get cute or creative with your fonts; editors dislike that.

Margins:
Leave generous margins, at least an inch, on both sides and top and bottom of each page. Indent five to eight spaces to indicate a new paragraph; remaining lines should be flush left. Do not justify your right margin.

Format:
Spacing - Double space all of your material except the cover letter. No space and a half; editors need space for editing marks. This rule applies to all text, including block quotations, notes, etc. In other words, double space all parts of the manuscript. (Do not double-double space between paragraphs.)

Header - Each page after the first page (see below) should have a header. On the left side, type a shortened form of your title. For example, if your title is Born on New Year's Eve, your abbreviated version would be Born. Then put a slash mark and your last name. (Born/Snowden). On the same line on the right side of the page, put your page number. Every page should have this header so that if the pages are dropped, they can be put back into order.

First Page - Your first page will have your name, address, phone number, and e-mail address in the upper left-hand corner. On the top right-hand side will be the approximate number of words in your ms. (If it's 4,212 words, type: Approximately 4,200 words.) Then drop down to the middle of the page and type your title in boldface type. (All subsequent pages will have the header with key word/last name on the left and page number on the right.)

Mailing the Manuscript:
When you send out your ms., do not bind it in any way. Simply put it in a 9 x 12 envelope with your cover letter on top. ALWAYS include a self-addressed stamped envelope (SASE) so it may be returned to you. A #10 business envelope is OK if you don't mind the story being folded. Make sure you include sufficient postage for the return of your material. You may send a photocopied version if it is clear, readable, and on good quality paper.

Snowden Editorial Services
©2006