Series on Freelance Article Writing - Part 3

How to Present Articles to an Editor by Debbie Roome
Once your article is written, you need to submit it to the publication’s editor. Layouts vary and if you don’t have guidelines, examine past issues to see how the articles are presented. While an editor often makes adjustments, they always appreciate a piece of work that follows the required format.

What to Look for when Formatting an Article
The following are areas that need to be considered:
· Indentation
· Line Spacing
· Paragraph spacing
· Punctuation
· Font

Spelling is also important and although spell checkers are useful, they cannot replace the human eye. Look carefully for words that have double meanings and may have been spelt incorrectly. Also double check the spelling of names.

Paper or Email Submission
Many publications accept email submissions but some still prefer a hard copy. Enquire as to their preference and then make sure the following points are adhered to:
· If submitting on paper, make sure it is clean, not creased and the print quality is good
· Only use photographs that are clear and of a high enough resolution
· If submitting by email, find out if they prefer the article pasted into the body of an email or sent as an attachment
· Is a cover letter required or not? Once an editor gets to know you, the cover letter is often done away with

Come back next week to learn about marketing your work.

Read Part 1 here
Read Part 2 here

Debbie Roome works as a freelance writer from her home in New Zealand. Visit her at Debbie Roome or browse through her blog. Some of her work can be found at Suite 101 , Take Root and Write and Faithwriters.