Prepare a Submission Package That Gets Accepted

A submission package is the professional bundle you send to agents, editors, or literary magazines. It usually includes a polished manuscript, a sharp query or cover letter, a concise synopsis, and an engaging author bio. Presenting each part perfectly can be the difference between acceptance and rejection.

Know the Guidelines First

Before writing a single word, study the submission guidelines of your target agent, press, or journal. Each outlet has unique rules on file type, word count, spacing, and additional materials. Ignoring them signals you may be difficult to work with.

• Create a spreadsheet to track requirements and deadlines.
• Grab a style guide—many publishers link directly to theirs.
• If guidelines seem unclear, send a brief, polite email for clarification.

Polish the Manuscript

Editors expect a near-flawless manuscript. Invest time in multiple self-edits, beta-reader feedback, and, if budget allows, a professional copy-edit. Use readability tools such as the Flesch Grade-Level Calculator to keep your prose clear.

Self-Edit in Three Passes

1. Structure Pass: Check plot arcs, pacing, and logical flow.
2. Line Pass: Replace weak verbs, tighten sentences, and remove filler words.
3. Proof Pass: Hunt for typos, formatting glitches, and inconsistent styling.

Professional Touches

• Consider hiring a freelance editor from Reedsy or the EFA directory.
• Run a plagiarism check to ensure originality.
• Convert your file to the requested format (usually .docx or .rtf).

Write a Stand-Out Query Letter

Your query letter is your elevator pitch in 300 ‎words or less. Hook the reader fast, show the stakes, and close with relevant credentials.

Query Letter Blueprint

1. Opening Hook (1-2 sentences)—Introduce the protagonist and central conflict.
2. Mini-Synopsis (2-3 sentences)—Lay out the turning point and why it matters.
3. Personalization (1 sentence)—Explain why you chose this agent or magazine.
4. Bio (1-2 sentences)—Highlight awards, previous publications, or expertise.
5. Closing—Offer the full manuscript or sample and thank them for their time.

Tone and Voice Tips

• Mirror the tone of your manuscript: literary, humorous, or noir.
• Stay professional—avoid slang and excessive exclamation points.
• Use the agent’s name, never “Dear Sir/Madam.”

Craft a Tight Synopsis

A synopsis is a one-to-two-page summary that reveals your entire story arc, including spoilers. Its job is to prove you can plot logically and deliver a satisfying ending.

• Write in present tense, third-person voice.
• Introduce main characters in ALL CAPS the first time for quick identification.
• Focus on causality—show how each major action pushes the story forward.

Shape Your Author Bio

Keep bios under 150 words unless guidelines differ. Prioritize credentials that match the submission’s focus. If you write poetry, list poetry publications; if nonfiction, emphasize subject expertise.

Format for Professional Eyes

Standard manuscript format remains the industry norm:

• 12-point Times New Roman or another serif font.
• Double-spacing.
• 1-inch margins all around.
• Header with last name, title, and page number.

Save your filename as Lastname_Title_Date.docx for clarity.

Assemble and Send with Confidence

Create a single folder containing:

1. Query letter (or cover letter for literary magazines).
2. Synopsis (if requested).
3. Manuscript or sample pages.
4. Author bio and contact information.

Compress the folder if the outlet requests a single attachment. Otherwise, attach items separately in the order listed.

Email Checklist

• Use a clear subject line: QUERY: TITLE – Genre – Word Count.
• Paste the query in the email body unless guidelines say otherwise.
• Double-check all attachments before hitting send.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Ignoring submission windows or reading periods.
• Submitting a first draft.
• Getting the agent’s name wrong.
• Overpromising sales numbers or market potential.
• Using fancy fonts or colors in the manuscript.

Resources and Next Steps

Bookmark industry staples like Writer’s Digest for up-to-date submission calls. For deeper learning, explore our in-house guide How to Find a Literary Agent and our Self-Publishing Hub.

Stay organized with tools such as QueryTracker and Asana. Consistency and professionalism turn promising manuscripts into accepted ones—follow this roadmap, and your odds rise dramatically.