help needed!!

[crtaylor]

Feel free to move this if its in the wrong place, I'm still new to this and am not sure where to post it.

I have just finished writing a novella/novelette (depending on the varied opinions on word count) and am looking into sending it off to some magazines. I found a great website 'duotrope.com' which has given me a few ideas for some places. The thing is, is that some places want the entire manuscript sent to them via the post. Is this usual practice? I thought that most places would want a synopsis or first three chapters. I'm not too sure of my reasons for hesitating over this, but still, I thought I'd check first before doing anything. Also, if I only send a few chapters and synopsis when they have asked for the whole thing, will I just get an instant rejection?

Thanks again, all help is appreciated.

[kullervo]

1. Make sure you have found the most current submission guidelines.

2. Follow those guidelines exactly.

3. Don't over-think it.

[HeronW]

Different publishers have different submission requirements. I like to check the main pub site after I read about them on a list or whatever--just to make sure the information of submitting is up to date, that I have the name of the right editor, etc.

If the pub asks for a synopsis or 3 chapters or the whole kit and kaboodle--send them what they ask for. That's rule #1.

Under FAQ's there's a standard MS format if the pub doesn't list how they want ms to look.

[Charlie Horse]

First, make sure the magazine is a good fit for your work. Second, follow submission guidelines for that publication. If you think you're work is something they'll be interested in, do whatever you have to do to get them to read it. Making up your own submission guidelines isn't going to get it done.

Duotrope is a great site. None better.

Good luck.

[Phaeal]

Magazines generally want the full MS. Make sure your piece falls within their word count limit. Sometimes mags do ask for you to query first if you want to send a piece longer than their limit.