Hi everyone, After a year of editing, I've finally decided to start the query process, but there's one question that's still troubling me: which font should I use? I've read that courier is the way to go when styling a professional manuscript, however other people say times new roman. Is there an industry rule that I should follow, or does it not really matter what I choose? Thanks
Use courier. It's evenly spaced, and that makes it easier for editors to spot spelling errors, etc. You'll find everything you need to know about manuscript formatting here. Just select whether you want the novel format or the short story format, or whatever else you need. Shunn's page shows you the industry standard.
One caveat to what minstrel said: use Courier, unless wherever you're submitting to tells you different. Some places have their own styles they prefer. If in doubt, go with the standard.
yes, courier 12 pt double-spaced for the ms, unless submission guidelines specify otherwise... some writers prefer tnr, but it's too tiny and cramped for reading in large batches all day, every day, which is why courier is the most universally acceptable font... however, you're asking about the query... and that should be single-spaced in times new roman 12 pt, as it's a business letter...
