How to indicate/format sections in novel manuscript

Are you visualizing a calendar page or what?

I'm currently working on a novel that covers the span of a calendar year, from January to December, and each chapter is a month, the name of the chapter the name of that particular month. You can name the chapters whatever you need to.

I wouldn't worry about it. Either way works, although the publisher may make changes. Personally, in a case such as yours, I'd prefer each chapter line (the month) on its own separate page preceding the text. To me it connotes a new, exciting beginning which I as a reader am about to embark on. But, that's me.

I agree with scope. As a reader, I'd like to see the month listed on its own page, thereby creating a divider between parts. That's how I've always seen it done. But then, too, the final decision would be made by your editor/publisher, so don't feel like you have to put too much thought or effort into it.

I third this. The titles of sections that contain several chapters should be on a separate page. But it may be changed. Of course, that would mean your books being published; no problem.