“Your editor doesn’t expect perfection. They expect EFFORT. A manuscript that’s been thoughtfully self-edited shows respect for the editor’s time and your own work.”
— L.A. Walton, The Book Maven
Submitting a manuscript to an editor is not the same as submitting a rough draft to a friend. Professional editors have expectations, and meeting them doesn’t require perfection—it requires preparation.
What Editors Want vs. What Writers Assume
| What Writers Think Editors Want | What Editors Actually Want |
| A flawless manuscript. | A clean, thoughtfully revised manuscript. |
| Perfect grammar. | Consistent, readable prose with minimal errors. |
| A finished product. | A workable manuscript they can improve. |
| Rigid adherence to rules. | Clear writing with intentional style choices. |
| An unwillingness to change. | Openness to collaboration and feedback. |
Pre-Submission Checklist
- Self-edit first. Don’t submit a first draft. Show that you’ve done the work.
- Format properly. Standard manuscript format. 12pt font. Double-spaced. 1-inch margins. This is non-negotiable.
- Include a clean synopsis. Your editor needs to know the full story, including the ending.
- Be open to feedback. An editor’s job is to make your work better. Trust the process.
- Communicate clearly. Deadlines, expectations, and concerns should be discussed upfront.
Your Move, Creative
Before your next submission, run through this checklist. A well-prepared manuscript tells an editor you take your work seriously—and that makes them take it seriously too.
Stop letting your stories stay stuck.
