How to Format a Manuscript for a Novel: Get It Right the First Time

When it comes to crafting a novel, the main hurdle for many writers isn’t just conjuring a captivating plot or developing rich characters; it’s getting the format right. Proper manuscript formatting can be the difference between an agent tossing your precious pages in the “no” pile and a publisher calling you for a deal.

So, how do you format a manuscript for a novel? The answer is simple: follow established guidelines. With the right format, you’ll look professional and help your work shine. Follow this detailed, step-by-step guide to steer clear of formatting errors.

Step-by-Step Guide to Formatting Your Manuscript

Use the Right Software

• • Example: Many writers swear by Microsoft Word for its features, but Google’s Docs is a great alternative if you prefer cloud-based options. Whichever you choose, opt for something that allows easy formatting.

Set Your Page Size

• • Go to your document settings and set the page size to 8.5 x 11 inches. This is the standard size for manuscript submissions.

Adjust Margins

• • Set top and bottom margins to 1 inch and left and right margins to 1 inch. Tip: Left-align your text for a clean look.

Choose Your Font Wisely

• • Opt for a legible font like Times New Roman or Arial, at a size of 12-point.
  • Pro Tip: Avoid fancy fonts that seem creative (like Comic Sans) unless you’re submitting to a particular publication that asks for it.

Set Line Spacing

• • Set the line spacing to double. This allows ample room for notes and edits. Don’t use extra spaces between paragraphs—just let your paragraphs indent.

Indent Your Paragraphs

• • The standard is to indent the first line of every paragraph by 0.5 inches. How to Do It: In Word, you can adjust this in the “Paragraph” settings.

Header and Page Numbering

• • Place a header on each page, excluding the title page, featuring your last name, a shortened title of your manuscript, and the page number. Format it like this: Last Name / Title / Page Number.

Title Page: Make it Pop!

• • Your title page should include:
    • Title of the novel
    • Your name (or pen name)
    • Your contact information (email and phone number)
    • Word count (rounded to the nearest hundred).
  • Center everything on the page and leave ample white space—no need for a splashy design.

Start with Scene Breaks

• • Use asterisks (* * *), or a hash mark (#) centered on a new line to indicate a scene break, not an extra line or page.

Create a Table of Contents (if applicable)

• • If your novel is organized into sections or chapters, a table of contents can guide your reader.

Formatting Fiction vs. Non-Fiction

While the rules above apply to fiction manuscripts, formatting a non-fiction manuscript can differ slightly. Non-fiction may require additional sections like acknowledgments, introductory materials, or even a bibliography. Always research specific guidelines applicable to your book type.

Best Practices and Specific Tips to Follow

Strive for Consistency

One of the best practices in manuscript formatting is consistency. Whether you’re using a specific font, spacing, or indentation style, ensure that it remains constant throughout your manuscript.

• Actionable Tip: Before submitting your manuscript, turn on the “Show Formatting” feature in Word. This handy trick highlights every formatting inconsistency.

Avoiding Common Pitfalls

Some common pitfalls when formatting a manuscript include:

• Using Extra Spaces After Periods: Many writers still stick to the outdated practice of double-spacing after periods. Stick to one space.
• Using Non-Standard Page Sizes: Submitting a 5×7 manuscript may seem creative, but it could frustrate agents and editors.

Pros and Cons of Self-Formatting

Pros:

• You have complete control over every aspect.
• It saves you money; hiring someone to format can be an added expense you might want to avoid.

Cons:

• It can be time-consuming. If you’re unsure of the formatting guidelines, you could end up wasting time or making mistakes.
• An unprofessional-looking manuscript can lead to rejection at first glance.

Real-World Example: Agent Submission

Nina, an aspiring author, finally completed her manuscript but found herself unsure about the formatting. Instead of diving into the chaos of different fonts and layouts, she chose to follow the guidelines explicitly outlined on the website of the literary agent she intended to query. Obeying the details led to a clean, presentable manuscript. When Nina’s work landed on the desk of that agent, it caught their attention immediately—not just for the story but for the professionalism of its presentation.

Additional Features to Consider

Using Styles in Word

Utilizing the “Styles” feature in Word can help automate some of your formatting. You can set a style for headers, body text, and footers, making it easier to maintain consistency.

Incorporating Feedback

Before you finalize your manuscript, consider sharing a draft with trusted friends or beta readers. They may catch mistakes or suggest formatting adjustments for readability.

• Tip: Ask them specifically to look for formatting issues. “Hey folks, don’t just love my thrilling plot twists; place your keen eyes on the format while you’re at it!”

The Importance of Proofreading

After formatting, give your manuscript a thorough proofread. Formatting errors can detract from the reading experience, not to mention the annoyance of finding out you used the wrong font halfway through.

Finding the Balance Between Creativity and Conformity

Remember, while formatting is a technical process, infusing your unique voice and style into your writing is what makes it shine. While you must adhere to formatting guidelines, don’t stifle your personality.

• Example: If your novel’s first line begins with an unusual stylistic choice (like no capital letters), you might consider keeping that intact within the text but ensure formatting aligns elsewhere.

Software Solutions

There are also specialized software options designed to help writers format their manuscripts. Programs like Scrivener and Vellum provide built-in templates specifically for manuscript formatting, easing some of the arduous tasks.

Get Feedback from Fellow Writers

Join a writers’ group or an online forum. Fellow writers can share their formatting techniques or suggest pitfalls to avoid. Sometimes, hearing it from someone who has been down that road can make a significant difference.

Having a Backup Plan

Always keep a backup of your formatted manuscript. Save it in multiple locations. You never want to lose all those formatting efforts due to a technical glitch!

Submitting Your Manuscript

When ready to submit, remember to follow any specific guidelines laid out by agents or publishers. Many have their requirements (like file type or email subject lines). Pay attention!

Getting your manuscript formatted correctly doesn’t have to be a tedious task. With this guide, you’ll not only adhere to industry standards but also showcase your professionalism and respect for the agent’s or publisher’s time. Stick to the steps, blend in some creativity, and you’ll be on your way to submitting your brightly formatted masterpiece.

Troubleshooting Common Manuscript Formatting Issues

Formatting your manuscript is like preparing a fine dish: get the ingredients right, and everything flows smoothly. But if you encounter issues, don’t panic! Here are some common formatting headaches and how to address them:

1. Page Numbers Are Missing or Misaligned

Scenario: You’re ready to send your manuscript to publishers, but when you glance at the page numbers, they’re nowhere to be found, or they’re all over the place.

Solution: First, double-check that your page numbering is set up correctly in your word processor. If you’re using Microsoft Word, go to the “Insert” tab, select “Page Number,” and choose your desired placement. For double-sided manuscripts, ensure that odd pages are on the right. If you’ve inserted a section break, make sure the page numbering is continuous by checking the page number settings in the header/footer.

2. Unwanted Blank Pages

Scenario: You’ve finished your manuscript, but when you scroll through, random blank pages appear, like they jumped in for a surprise dance party.

Solution: These often occur due to extra paragraph marks or page breaks. In Word, enable “Show/Hide” (the paragraph symbol) to see hidden formatting marks. Delete any extra paragraph marks or page breaks at the end of chapters or sections. If a blank page appears between two chapters, it’s likely a section break; highlight it and delete it.

3. Inconsistent Font and Size

Scenario: You start with an elegant font, but by chapter five, it seems like you visited a font store and bought everything on sale.

Solution: Highlight your entire manuscript by pressing Ctrl + A (or Command + A on Mac) and set your font and size to a standard choice, like Times New Roman, size 12. This ensures uniformity. If you’re still seeing differences, check for any text boxes, headers, or footers with different settings.

4. Indentation Problems

Scenario: You’ve set the perfect scene when suddenly your first-line indents decide to take a vacation. Now, there’s inconsistency in where your paragraphs begin.

Solution: Ensure you’re using the paragraph settings correctly. Highlight your text, right-click, and go to “Paragraph.” Under the Indentation section, set “First Line” to 0.5 inches (or whichever measurement you prefer). Apply this to the whole document to keep everything in line – literally!

5. Incorrect Line Spacing

Scenario: Your manuscript looks like a crowded subway car during rush hour, with no room to breathe.

Solution: In Word, highlight your text, right-click, and select “Paragraph.” Under the “Spacing” section, set the “Line Spacing” to “Double” (or your desired setting). Make sure to check any additional spacing before and after paragraphs to keep your layout clean and readable.

6. Margins Are Off

Scenario: You think your manuscript is ready, but the margins are so tight it looks like your text is trying to escape!

Solution: Check your margin settings by going to “Layout” or “Page Layout” and clicking “Margins.” The standard for most manuscripts is one inch on all sides. Adjust as needed to give your text the breathing room it deserves.

7. Chapter Headings Are Inconsistent

Scenario: Your chapter headings are wobbly like a toddler learning to walk, with some centered, some left-aligned, and some in different fonts.

Solution: For consistency, select your chapter headings and apply a uniform style. Highlight the heading, go to “Styles,” and choose a heading format that works for you—like Heading 1 for chapters. This maintains a polished look and makes crafting a Table of Contents easier later on.

By using these troubleshooting techniques, you can tackle common formatting issues head-on, ensuring your manuscript is polished and professional. Now go forth and format with confidence!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) Related to How To Format A Manuscript For A Novel

Q. What fonts are best for formatting a manuscript?
A. The classic duo is Times New Roman or Arial, both in 12-point size. It’s like wearing a black suit to a job interview—always appropriate!

Q. What spacing should I use in my manuscript?
A. Double-spacing is the gold standard. It gives your work breathing room and helps editors see that there’s a lot of space for their complaints!

Q. How do I format the margins in my manuscript?
A. Set your margins to 1 inch on all sides. This ensures no words are left feeling cramped. Think of it like giving your book some personal space!

Q. Should I include page numbers?
A. Yes! Place page numbers in the top right corner. It helps keep things organized and prevents your manuscript from playing hide and seek.

Q. What about the title page?
A. Start with your book title in the center of the page, followed by your name and contact info. Think of it as your novel’s fancy business card!

Q. How do I format dialogue in my manuscript?
A. Start a new paragraph for each speaker and use quotation marks. This way, readers can keep track of who’s saying what—like a drama without the acting!

Q. Should I indent my paragraphs?
A. Yes, use a half-inch indent for each new paragraph. It’s like having a neat little border around your ideas, making them pop!

Q. How should I handle chapter headings?
A. Center the chapter number or title at the top of a new page and use a larger font size (like 14-point). It’s like a mini celebration every time a reader reaches a new chapter!

Q. Can I use images or illustrations in my manuscript?
A. Generally, stick with text only in your manuscript. Save the visuals for your book cover or promotional materials. Remember, your words are the stars of this show!

Q. Do I need to include a synopsis?
A. Not in your manuscript. Save the synopsis for when you’re querying agents or publishers. It’s like your elevator pitch—short, sweet, and oh-so-necessary!

Conclusion

Formatting a manuscript might appear challenging, yet with proper guidance, it becomes as easy as spreading butter on toast without leaving any crumbs. Remember, the key elements are consistency, attention to detail, and adherence to industry standards. Whether you’re using Word, Scrivener, or any other writing software, following the steps outlined in this article will help ensure your manuscript looks professional and polished. So, dust off that keyboard hit save, and get ready to impress agents and publishers alike. Happy writing, and may your formatting be forever flawless!