Submitting a manuscript can feel like an uphill climb for any aspiring author. The sheer effort of writing, editing, and finally sending your work into the world often comes with a mix of excitement and trepidation. Whether you're new to the process or looking to refine your approach, small adjustments can have a transformative impact on how your submissions are received.

In this blog, we’ll explore seven actionable changes—covering everything from overcoming writer’s block to building confidence in your voice—that can help you stand out in the competitive world of publishing. These practical writing tips for aspiring authors are designed to make the submission process smoother and more rewarding.

Break Free from Writer’s Block with Routine

Writer’s block is a familiar enemy for many authors. You sit down, stare at a blank page, and… nothing. Instead of waiting for inspiration to strike, writing should be treated as a habit, not a muse-dependent art.

Create a writing routine that works for you. Dedicate time every day—even if it’s just 20 minutes—to sit and write. Remember, the goal isn’t perfection. Give yourself permission to write badly at first because you can always revise later. Writing prompts and exercises can also help shake loose creative cobwebs.

Routine gives structure to creativity, turning writer’s block into nothing more than a passing inconvenience.

Tame Self-Doubt to Strengthen Your Confidence

Self-doubt is a sneaky thief that robs you of confidence, making you question whether your manuscript is good enough. The truth? Most writers grapple with it at some point.
Instead of letting doubt win, actively seek validation through feedback. Find beta readers or join a critique group where you can share your work with others who understand the challenges of writing. Constructive criticism can help you see the strengths in your story while highlighting areas for improvement.

Remember, every author started somewhere. By focusing on progress over perfection, you’ll learn to trust your abilities and stay motivated.

Refine Your Unique Voice—It’s What Sets You Apart

One of the most powerful writing tips for aspiring authors is to cultivate your unique voice. Publishers and agents are always searching for something fresh, something that feels authentically “you.”

Your voice emerges naturally over time, but deliberate practice can help:

Experiment with different genres, tones, or perspectives to discover what feels most authentic.
Read widely—not just in your genre—to understand how various voices work and why they resonate.

Trust your instincts. If something feels too derivative, pivot until you find a way to say it that’s uniquely yours.

Finding your voice is not about being perfect; it’s about being true to yourself.

Polish Your Book Submission Materials

Submitting a manuscript is about more than just the story—it’s about presentation. Your query letter, synopsis, and even the email you send need to reflect professionalism and polish.
Start by tailoring your submission package to each publisher or agent. Read their guidelines carefully, as sending a generic query could result in instant rejection. Keep your query letter concise but compelling, showcasing your story’s uniqueness and why it fits their list.
Finally, proofread everything. Nothing undermines credibility faster than a glaring typo in your cover letter.

Embrace Rejection as Part of the Journey

Rejection is often an inevitable part of the submission process, but it’s not the end of the road. Instead of letting it crush your spirit, treat rejection as a stepping stone to success.

If you’re lucky enough to receive feedback, use it to strengthen your manuscript. Rejections can sometimes point out elements you didn’t see as issues. On the flip side, if the rejection is generic, don’t dwell on it too long—submit to someone else.

Even the greats, from J.K. Rowling to Stephen King, faced rejection before their work found its audience. Persistence is the thread that binds all successful authors.

Edit Ruthlessly to Refine Your Manuscript

An editor or agent’s first impression of your manuscript can make or break your submission. Make sure your work is as polished as possible before you hit "send."

Editing is not just about spotting typos. It’s about asking yourself tough questions: Are the characters fully developed? Does the plot have enough tension? Is the pacing just right? Address big-picture issues first before moving on to line-by-line edits.

Tools like Grammarly or ProWritingAid can help with grammar, but for deeper edits, consider hiring a professional editor. Fresh eyes often catch what you might miss.

Build Connections in the Publishing World

Networking might not be the first thing you associate with writing, but it can be a game-changer. Building relationships within the publishing industry can provide valuable opportunities and insights.

Attend writing conferences or join online forums where authors, agents, and publishers interact. Social media platforms like Twitter are excellent for connecting with agents and staying up-to-date on submission opportunities.

Supporting fellow writers, sharing their work, or simply engaging with the community can also open doors you didn’t know existed.

Small Changes, Big Results

Submitting a manuscript is daunting, but it doesn’t have to be overwhelming. By addressing emotional hurdles like writer’s block and self-doubt, refining your unique voice, and perfecting your submission package, you can make significant progress in your journey to becoming a published author.

These tips for submitting a manuscript might seem small on their own, but together, they create a powerful strategy for success. With persistence, preparation, and the willingness to adapt, your dream of seeing your book on shelves can become a reality.
So, take a deep breath, make those small changes, and press “send.” Your journey as an author begins now.

Connect with Austin Macauley Publishers for the best fantasy book series and blogs, and submit your manuscript if you want to publish your work. You can also make a quick and easy submission through the online submission form. You can stay updated with our new releases and activities by joining our family of authors and readers on Facebook, X, TikTok, and Instagram.