#Style sheet for a manuscript how to#
#Style sheet for a manuscript download#

In the insert menu in Word, you can add a title page in the top left corner. Manuscript rules are still the same for non-fiction and fiction, but it sounds like you have a lot more to do. I’d also have a look in Word’s templates to see if there’s anything specific for non-fiction. Feeling a bit excited yet overwhelmed at the prospect!įirst, I’d ask the publisher for a sample or template of what they want, that way you know exactly how they want it formatted. I must say, I have the main text all handwritten, but now I need to get it ready for submission for print. I’d really appreciate any help you could give. I was told setting up the document, Page Format and layout before I write my first draft is the quickest way, rather than having to go back and alter everything. I can find lots about setting up a Fiction book but the only things I can find with ease are Manuscript submission guides. Then the manuscript (I’m still writing and using the Outline Feature in Word.) The advice they gave was to setup Word before writing my first draft! So I’m staring at a White blank standard Word Document. They have asked me to format the book for print myself. My publisher has given me instructions regards Fonts, line spacing and the basic requirements. It is for Print first and hopefully e-book later.

#Style sheet for a manuscript how to#

But I wonder if you could help or point me in the direction of how to setup Word 2016 for my Nonfiction book? I’ve just read your article and I’ve found it really interesting. If you need to set up your paragraphs in word itself (sometimes formatting can break or you want to change an old story), select your text, go to the paragraph pull out menu (tiny little button in the corner of the panel) and choose the appropriate settings. Using a template makes life easier – no more pressing tab every time you start a new paragraph. They’re both really easy fonts on the eye, rather than having an editor squinting over your manuscript in Papyrus. The reason for Times New Roman or Courier is their legibility. The number one tip I can give is to double check requirements for your manuscript with the publisher before submitting – they will include these requirements with their submission guidelines.

Your name/story title/page number in the top right hand corner.

First line of each paragraph hanging (indented).

Times New Roman or Courier font (I personally prefer Times).

I use these all the time, but it is still helpful to know the standard settings for manuscripts or short stories to present to a publisher:

#Style sheet for a manuscript download#

You don’t have to do anything except search in the top box at the opening menu for manuscript, download them, put in your details and type. There are both short story and book manuscript templates available for download and use in Word. Word makes setting up a manuscript easy with templates.