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Author resources · Manuscript preparation

A practical checklist for your manuscript.

Use these prompts to gather context before you discuss your project. You do not need to have every answer before you begin.

Step 01

Describe the book

  • Write a short summary of the book or the idea you want to develop.
  • Note who you hope will read it and any working title or category you have in mind.
  • Mark the parts of the concept that are still taking shape.

Step 02

Gather what you have

  • Note whether you have an idea, outline, partial draft, or complete manuscript.
  • Collect the current draft and any outlines, research, or source materials that explain it.
  • If helpful, estimate the manuscript length and identify the version you want reviewed.

Step 03

Set out your questions

  • List the support you are considering, such as writing, editing, design, formatting, or setup.
  • Share a preferred timeline and any decisions you have already made about format or route.
  • Flag quoted, visual, or other material whose source or permission you still need to check.

This is a planning aid, not a list of platform submission requirements. File and setup requirements depend on the publishing route you choose, so confirm them for that route.

When you are ready, share the stage your manuscript is at and the help you are considering.

Start the project questionnaire