- Query Template
- Manuscript Format Template
- More coming soon!
The Query Template
Want to write the perfect query? Check out our template, which includes the 6 key parts of a query: the personalized open, the blurb, comps, housekeeping info, the bio, and the close.
Want a detailed breakdown? Check out our article for a deep dive into the 6 Parts of a Query, and click on the button below to download this template for free!
(Are you already on our mailing list? Don’t worry! The button won’t sign you up twice. Just enter your email, get access to the file, and query on!)
Manuscript Format Template
What is Manuscript Format?
It’s the layout and presentation of your novel. When you’re submitting your manuscript to agents, editors, or for competitions, your novel needs to meet the industry requirements, which specifies format of the title page, the margin settings, font size, line, spacing, indentation, and also the format of the running header where the page number appears.
Does it really matter?
Yes, formatting your novel properly shows that you take your writing seriously. It cuts down on reviewing time and costs and it makes proofreading and editing easier.
Many agents and editors will not look at a novel if it isn’t in standard manuscript format.
How do I format my novel?
Here are the basics:
- 1 inch margins all around (2.5 cm)
- Left align text (not justified)
- First-line indent of 0.5 inches (1.25 cm)
- Times New roman, 12 point font
- Black text on a white background
- Double-line space your paragraphs
- No extra spaces between paragraphs
- Single space between sentences
- Use a single centered hash mark (#) for scene breaks
- The header should be on the top-right corner of every page except the title page, and it should include your last name, a short title, and the page number, like this: Your Last Name / TITLE / 1
- Begin chapters on new pages
- At the very end of the novel, include the words The End centered and on its own line
I don’t have Microsoft Word. What do I do?
The publishing industry typically requests files in docx or doc format, which means your file needs to be compatible with Microsoft Word. You can use Google Docs or Pages or any program that saves the file in docx or doc format.
Can I pay someone to format my novel?
Yes, you can find copyeditors on Fiverr. Costs vary quite a bit. Look for someone with a good rating and consistent return time.
You can also format your novel yourself! Check out our free manuscript template.
(Already on our mailing list? Don’t worry! The button won’t sign you up twice. Just enter your email, get access to the file)
We’ll be sharing more templates for tracking queries, comp research, and more!
Check back again soon!
