Samuel Fenwick Publishing - Preparing Your Manuscript Before Editing

Introduction

Preparing your manuscript before sending it for professional editing is one of the best investments you can make in your book. By taking a little extra time to review your work, correct obvious mistakes, and organise your manuscript, you'll make the editing process smoother and allow your editor to focus on improving the quality of your writing rather than correcting avoidable errors.

This checklist explains the simple steps I recommend before submitting your manuscript for editing.

Finish Your Manuscript First

Finish the entire manuscript before seeking editing.
Avoid sending individual chapters unless you're requesting a manuscript assessment.
A completed manuscript allows the editor to assess the flow, consistency, and structure of the book as a whole.

Self-Edit Your Work

Read your manuscript from beginning to end.
Correct spelling and punctuation where you can.
Remove repeated words and awkward sentences.
Look for consistency in names, dates, and formatting

Remove Unnecessary Formatting

One readable font
Consistent font size
Left-aligned text
Double or 1.5 line spacing (if preferred by the editor)
Avoid manual spacing and decorative formatting
Use Word's heading styles where appropriate

Check Spelling and Grammar

Running a spell check won't catch every mistake, but it can identify obvious typing errors before professional editing begins.

Save as a Microsoft Word Document

Microsoft Word (.docx) remains the standard format for professional editing because it allows editors to use Track Changes and comments.

Avoid sending PDFs for editing, as they are much harder to revise.

Submission Checklist Before You Submit

✔ The manuscript is complete.

✔ I've read through it myself.

✔ I've corrected obvious spelling mistakes.

✔ Unnecessary formatting has been removed.

✔ The file is saved as a Word document (.docx).

✔ Chapter headings are clearly marked.

✔ Images (if any) are supplied separately.

✔ I've included any notes or questions for my editor.

Frequently Asked Questions

Should I edit my own work before paying an editor?

Yes. The more polished your manuscript is, the more time your editor can spend improving the writing rather than correcting avoidable mistakes.

Can I send individual chapters?

For a full edit, it's generally best to submit the completed manuscript so the editor can assess the book as a whole.

Should I format my book before editing?

No. Focus on producing a clean, easy-to-read manuscript. Professional book formatting comes later in the publishing process.

What file format should I use?

Microsoft Word (.docx) is the preferred format for most professional editors.

Ready to Prepare Your Manuscript for Publication?

If you'd like an experienced second pair of eyes before your book moves to the next stage, I offer manuscript assessments, professional editing, formatting, and one-to-one publishing support designed specifically for first-time authors.

Explore My Publishing Services. Contact Samuel Fenwick Publishing at samuel@samuelfenwick.com