How do you submit manuscripts to a reputable publishing company

1. 71

   AEvansposted 13 years ago

   How do you submit manuscripts to a reputable publishing company

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2. 78

   BDazzlerposted 13 years ago

   It really depends on the publisher and the market.  In the 80s and 90s when computer programming for PCs was new, the fact that I could write and program made me a "hot commodity" for industry magazines for a little while.
   
   One of my magazine editor recommended me to someone he knew at John Wiley & Sons (a Major New York Publisher) they helped me from there.
   
   In general to get published do the following:
   1. Go to Barnes and Noble or some other book store and find books like the one you want to have published.
   
   2. Look at the publisher information.
   
   3. Go to their web site and read their submission guidelines. 
   
   4. Follow their submission guidelines to the letter. 
   
   It will be a slow process and often painful.
   
   Sometimes, they have a "call for papers" or something similar in their guidelines.  This is what their market research indicates there is a demand for.  If you can address that need and also follow their other guidelines, you will likely be "fast tracked" and you could get published sooner.

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3. 83

   Austinstarposted 13 years ago

   There is also a good reference called "Writer's Market" and it's on the web http://www.writersmarket.com/

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4. 60

   Azur Moon Wolfposted 13 years ago

   Each publishing company has a different set of guidelines.  Your best bet is to go onto their website to see what they prefer you to do.  That way your manuscript isn't ignored completely.  One company I looked into asks that you send a resume of yourself (education, writing accomplishments, etc.) along with a 2,000 word or less summary of the manuscript you wish to send in (only when submitting to the company for the first time).  They then would contact you letting you know wether or not they are interested in reading the actual manuscript.  This saves you in a lot of postage, too!
   Also, I make sure I put my name and phone number on the top or bottom of each and every page.  Most likely you'll be asked to send in an unbound copy of your manuscript and by adding this to every sheet of paper, you'll ensure they won't lose your information in the chaotic mess they call a desk! 
   Writer's Market is a good website, but you have to pay in order to use it.  The easiest way, I think, is going directly to the publisher's website.
   Good luck!

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5. 59

   DavidAmerlandposted 13 years ago

   Hi and thank you for your question. The process is fairly straightforward. You need:
   
   1. Summary (about 300 words) explaining what your book is about, why it's different and who it is aimed at.
   
   2. One detailed outline (about 2 pages) explaining what you will write (even if it's fiction).
   
   3. One sample chapter
   
   Put it all together and send it off with a brief covering letter to a publishing house which you think publishes material similar to yours.
   
   I hope this helps,
   
   David

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6. 60

   Shakesprilposted 13 years ago

   There are certain standards set by the publishing company..
   
   
   You have to follow.

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