How to Format a Manuscript for Publishing

If you're getting ready to submit your book manuscript—first of all, congratulations! Writing a book is no small feat, and reaching the submission stage is a major milestone. You've probably wondered how to format a book for publication. I this short article we outline some of the key points to consider to answer your question of how to format a manuscript for publishing.

📚 Manuscript Formatting Guidelines

To ensure a smooth review process and make your manuscript easy to read, please follow these formatting tips:

• Use a readable font

  Stick to 12-point Times New Roman as this is the most widely accepted font. Calibri and Arial are potential alternatives, but Times New Roman is the most widely requested by publishers. Avoid decorative fonts—they can be hard on the eyes during long reads.

• Double-space your manuscript

  Double-spacing the manuscript gives editors the space they need to make notes and it improves readability.

• Single space after periods

  Modern standards call for one space after a period, not two. This small detail makes a big difference.

• Indent at the start of paragraphs

  To indicated a new paragraph, indent your paragraphs one-half an inch (1.25 cm), and ensure to use the tab function, do not use the space bar to indent. Separate each paragraph with a hard return after the last line of the previous paragraph, but keeping the distance between paragraphs the regular double spaced text length. This keeps the layout clean and uncluttered, and helps easily denote the start of a new paragraph.

• Number your pages

  Make sure your pages are numbered, preferably in the header or footer. This helps keep everything in order—especially if printed.

• Centre chapter headings and subheadings

  Centring helps clearly signal the start of a new chapter or section. Leave a few blank lines between the end of the previous chapter text and the new chapter heading to give it space to stand out. For subheadings it can remain centred within the regular double spaced text.

• Include your title and author name on the first page

  It’s a simple but important touch that gives your manuscript a professional presentation right from the start.

• Follow the publisher's submission guidelines

  Ensure to review and follow the publisher submission guidelines. Although we've provided tips in this article of how to format a manuscript for publishing, each publisher will have their own standards and requirements, and they will often not even give a manuscript a chance if it does not follow the basic rules of submission. Don't let that be the thing that stops your book from getting reviewed or published.

  
  

💡 Bonus Tips for Submitting Like a Pro

• Save and send your manuscript as a Word document (.doc or .docx)

  Word .doc or .docx file types are universally accepted and easy to edit if needed.

• Include a brief synopsis

  When you add a short paragraph about what your book is about, it gives the reviewing editor context and helps them understand your vision.

• Proofread before submitting

  Typos happen, but a quick proofread, or run it through your spelling and grammar checking software a final time before you submit your manuscript, shows you care about your work—and that makes a great impression.

At Raspberry Press, we specialize in helping authors bring their stories to life through self-publishing. Whether it’s your first manuscript or your fifth, clear formatting can make a big difference in how your work is received and evaluated. That’s why we’ve put together this guide to help you polish your document before you hit send.

📬 We’re Open for Submissions!

At Raspberry Press, we help authors self-publish with professionalism, care, and creativity. If you’re ready to take the next step, we’d love to hear from you!

To get started, send us:

• The first two chapters; and

• The last chapter of your manuscript

• The total word count of your full manuscript

  
  

We’ll review your submission and provide a personalized quote for our publishing services. Whether you’re writing fiction, nonfiction, poetry, or something in between, we’re here to help your book find its way into the world.

👉 Send your manuscript through our submission form and let’s bring your book to life! If you are not quite ready to submit and have questions, please contact us and we will be happy to help.