Submitting Your Manuscript to Online Fiction Magazines: A Comprehensive Guide

Submitting your manuscript to an online fiction magazine can be a thrilling but daunting endeavor. To ensure your submission is not only accepted but also given the attention it deserves, it's essential to follow a structured process that adheres to each magazine's specific requirements. This guide will walk you through the essential steps, from understanding the submission guidelines to the final submission process, to help you submit your manuscript with confidence.

Thoroughly Reviewing Submission Guidelines

The first and most crucial step in the submission process is thoroughly reviewing the magazine's submission guidelines. Each online fiction magazine has its own unique preferences when it comes to manuscript format, word count, and accepted genres. Ignoring these guidelines can lead to rejection before your work has even been read. Therefore, take the time to carefully read and understand the magazine's submission guidelines.

Make sure to note important details such as the acceptance of simultaneous submissions, word count limits, preferred genres, and specific formatting requirements. For example, the magazine might prefer submissions in double-spaced times new roman with 1-inch margins. Environmental and economic factors can also influence the acceptance of genre-specific content.

Polishing Your Manuscript and Adhering to Formatting Guidelines

Once you have a clear understanding of the submission guidelines, the next critical step is to polish your manuscript. Ensuring it is grammatically correct, well-structured, and engaging is essential. This includes:

Proofreading for spelling and grammatical errors Ensuring a consistent narrative style and voice Double-checking the word count to meet the specified limits Adjusting your manuscript to fit the magazine's preferred format, such as double-spacing and margins

Adhering to the formatting guidelines is not just about meeting a standard but also about showing respect for the magazine's preferences. This small act of consideration can make a big impact on the editor's perception of your work.

Preparing a Compelling Cover Letter and Additional Documents

While your manuscript is the star of your submission, additional documents can also make or break it. Many magazines require a cover letter that introduces you and your work. This letter should be brief, engaging, and highlight why your manuscript is a perfect fit for their audience. Mention relevant writing credits, any previous publications, or any other achievements that might enhance the editor's interest.

Some magazines might also request a synopsis or a short biography. A synopsis should give the magazine a clear idea of your story without giving away too many plot details. A biography can help the editor get to know you as a writer, which can be a significant factor in moving your manuscript to the top of the pile.

Using Submission Management Systems or Email Submissions

Today, many online fiction magazines use submission management systems like Submittable. These platforms make the submission process more organized and efficient for both the author and the magazine. If the magazine has a submission management system, create an account on the platform and submit your manuscript directly through it. This ensures that your submission is properly logged and easier to track.

If the magazine prefers email submissions, make sure to follow their instructions closely. Attach the manuscript in the correct format, typically .doc or .docx, and ensure that you have included all the required documents (cover letter, synopsis, biography, etc.). Always include a subject line that clearly indicates you are submitting a manuscript, such as 'Submission for [Magazine Name]—[Your Name]—[Story Title].'

Patience and Respect

After submitting your manuscript, patience is key. Magazines often have busy schedules, and it may take some time for them to review your submission. Most journals will have a stated response time, so be respectful and wait until that time has passed before following up. If you do need to follow up, send a brief and courteous email to inquire about the status of your submission, rather than an urgent or demanding message.

Always adhere to the magazine's policies regarding simultaneous submissions. While it can be tempting to send your manuscript to multiple outlets, this can often lead to confusion and unnecessary rejections. Be transparent about your submission status and give the magazine the opportunity to evaluate your work without competing with other potential submissions.

Lastly, don't be discouraged by rejections. Every submission is a learning opportunity. Use feedback from magazines, if provided, to improve your writing and resubmit to other publications. Remember, persistence is key in the world of writing and publishing.