There are quite a number of reasons why your manuscript might be rejected. The best way to minimize chances of rejection is by ensuring that your manuscript is the very best it can be before submitting it. Below are the top five suggestions on what to check for before submitting your manuscript.

1. Proofreading: Proofread your work as many times as possible and, if you can, get someone else to proofread it one more time. It takes more than one round of proofreading to polish your manuscript to perfection. When you feel that you are done proofreading, use proofreading software to help you point out any errors that might have escaped your eye. If you can, employ the help of a professional to help you with the proofreading, but if that is not possible then just do it yourself multiple times.

2. Formatting: The formatting and layout of your manuscript is probably the first thing that anyone will notice. A poorly formatted manuscript is an immediate turn off for anyone. It shows a lack of respect for your work. From the table of contents all the way to the very last word, your work must be properly formatted. Make sure that you create a good first impression with proper formatting throughout the manuscript. Look out for things like alignment, font, and font size among others.

3. Length: The total length of your book, in terms of number of words and pages, is not set in stone, but there are general guidelines on the preferable lengths for different genres. Much as there are no set rules on this, just be sure not to stray so far outside the general guidelines for the ideal length applicable to your chosen genre.

4. Take A Break: Proofreading becomes quite tricky when it is your own work. If the words are still fresh in your mind, you might not see some mistakes. In many cases, you might read the words in your head instead of what you actually typed out. Taking a break allows you to come back with a fresh mind for the final round of proofreading.

Secondly, as you write, you create a bond with your characters and their stories. This is not a bad thing, but it can have some adverse effects. Because you are possibly too close to the words, your mind might be biased and your judgment affected. Taking a moment away from it allows you to see the whole story and decide if everything fits together or not.

5. Cover letter: Last but not least is the letter that accompanies your manuscript. Your cover letter serves as the face of your manuscript and, as such, you should make sure it is the very best it can be and conveys the message you want to convey without being too wordy. Make sure that the formatting is on point and proofread it several times to eliminate any errors. A poorly written cover letter is an immediate turn off and creates a negative bias towards your manuscript.