Writing a book is one thing, but submitting it? That’s a whole different ballgame. If you’re asking yourself, “Is it safe to submit a manuscript to a publisher?” Many authors, especially first-timers, are worried about whether their work will be safe once they send it out into the world.

After all, your manuscript is your baby. It represents months, maybe even years, of hard work. Then, how do you know it’s protected?

Let us help you learn the submission process, how you can make sure it is submitted safely, and what to avoid to ensure your work stays yours.

Key Takeaways 

1. Importance of Safety: It’s important to keep your manuscript safe, but sending it to well-regarded publishers is usually okay. These publishers value their reputation and usually won’t steal your work.
2. Common Fears: Apart from the fear of rejection, many first-time authors worry about plagiarism or theft.
3. Submission Process: Always follow the publisher’s submission guidelines closely. If you are wondering what you need to do – you need to send a query letter, synopsis, and sample chapters.
4. Agent Advantages: Working with a literary agent offers additional protection and guidance, increasing your chances of landing a deal with reputable publishers.
5. Copyright Protection: While your manuscript is automatically copyrighted upon creation, officially registering it offers stronger legal protection.
6. Scam Warning: Here is the red flag you need to watch out for regarding upfront fees. Avoid publishers who ask for upfront fees.

Why Safety Matters When Submitting a Manuscript

First off, why all the worry? Because your manuscript is valuable, there’s always a little fear that once you hit that “send” button, something could go wrong. What if the publisher steals your idea? What if someone leaks it?

So, is it safe to send it to a publisher? Yes, for the most part, it’s actually safe. Publishers who are well known aren’t out to steal your work as it will make their image bad in the market—they will help you publish it. But that doesn’t mean you should send your manuscript to just anyone.

Common Author Fears

Many authors fear that if they submit a manuscript to a publisher, it might be plagiarized or used without credit. While these concerns are valid, they are largely unfounded if you do your research and submit it to credible publishers. The real issue isn’t usually theft—it’s rejection. However, protecting your intellectual property and keeping your manuscript safe before submitting it is still important.

How You Can Submit a Manuscript Safely to a Publisher

To submit your manuscript in a way that keeps it safe and professional, every publisher has to follow submission guidelines accurately. Below, you can find those guidelines:

• Submission Guidelines 

Publishers usually ask for a query letter, synopsis, and sample chapters. Some might ask for the entire manuscript, but that’s less common upfront. How do you submit your book to a publisher? You’ll usually be asked to send it by email or upload it to their submission portal.

But before you send it off, make sure you’ve done your research. You want to submit to a publisher with a good track record. Google is your friend here—check out reviews and author testimonials, and make sure the publisher has a history of legitimate, successful books.

• Email vs. Online Platforms

Most publishers accept submissions via email or their own platforms. For safety, sending through a secure online platform is often the best option to choose. Submission of books varies, but either way, ensure that the file is protected with basic encryption and avoid sending it through unprotected channels like cloud storage links unless explicitly asked.

How to Send Your Book to a Publisher Without Risk

Here’s where things can get a little nerve-wracking. You’ve written the book, but how do you actually submit your manuscript without stressing about security? Thankfully, there are simple steps to take.

• Choose Trusted Publishers

Stick with established publishing houses. It’s pretty easy to figure out who’s legit and who’s not. Reputable publishers will have a proven history, clear submission guidelines, and contact information you can verify.

Scammy or shady publishers tend to ask for upfront fees or make promises that sound too good to be true. A real publisher is making money off book sales, not you.

• Use of Safe Platform

Sending your book securely can involve using encrypted email or submission portals that are password protected. Keep in mind that the process to submit a manuscript is safer now than it was in the past, especially with online platforms designed to handle these concerns.

If you’re still unsure, some authors use services like Box or Dropbox with a password, but only if the publisher requests it.

Why Submit to an Agent?

Agents serve as middlemen between you and the publisher. They can also help you polish your manuscript and get it into the hands of the right people. The real advantage of having an agent is the layer of protection they offer.

Agents know the industry well and won’t submit your book to a publisher who isn’t reputable or a bad fit for your genre. They act as gatekeepers, filtering out shady publishers, and they know what to look for in contracts to protect your rights.

Another big reason to consider an agent is their connections. Agents often have established relationships with top publishers, giving your manuscript a better chance of getting noticed. Plus, if negotiations are needed, they can advocate for better terms on your behalf, ensuring you get the best deal possible. In short, agents take a lot of the guesswork out of the publishing process and help you focus on what you do best—writing.

Submitting Your Book to a Publisher vs. an Agent

Is it better to submit your manuscript to a publisher or go through an agent first? Submitting a manuscript to an agent is very similar to submitting directly to publishers, but there are differences in the process and the benefits each option offers.

An agent can act as a gatekeeper, ensuring your manuscript is in the best shape before presenting it to top publishers. Agents also have established relationships with publishers, which can increase your chances of getting noticed. On the other hand, submitting directly to a publisher may result in a faster response, but you’ll need to ensure your submission is polished without professional guidance.

How to Submit a Manuscript to an Agent

Much like publishers, agents have specific submission guidelines. Typically, you’ll send a query letter, a synopsis, and some sample chapters. Follow their guidelines carefully and be patient—agents receive hundreds of queries a week. When submitting, make sure your query letter is polished and professional. It should briefly introduce you, highlight your manuscript’s genre and word count, and give a compelling hook about your book.

Agents will often specify how many sample chapters they want to see, so don’t send more than they ask for. Also, personalize your submission. Mention why you’re choosing that particular agent, perhaps referencing their work with similar authors or genres.

Remember, submitting a manuscript to an agent can vary, so read each agent’s preferences carefully. Once submitted, be prepared to wait—it can take weeks or even months for a response. Stay professional and courteous, even if you receive rejections.

The Dos and Don’ts of Submitting Books to Publishers

There are a few dos and don’ts when it comes to submitting your manuscript. These tips will help you avoid pitfalls and protect your work.

Dos

• Research the Publisher

Before you submit the manuscript, thoroughly research the publisher to ensure they are reputable and legitimate. Look for established publishing history, reviews from other authors, and clear contact information. Avoid publishers with hidden fees or unrealistic promises, and always prioritize those with a strong industry reputation.

• Follow Submission Guidelines

Every publisher has specific submission guidelines, and they exist for a reason. Carefully read and adhere to their requirements, including formatting, length, and additional materials. Ignoring or skipping these guidelines can lead to an automatic rejection, no matter how good your manuscript is.

• Keep Track of Your Submissions

It’s important to stay organized when submitting manuscripts to multiple publishers. Create a spreadsheet to record the dates, publisher names, and the current status of each submission. This helps you track responses and avoid accidentally submitting to the same publisher twice or losing track of important deadlines.

• Protect Your Work

While many writers feel safe submitting manuscripts, it’s understandable to want extra protection. Consider registering your work with a copyright service or using a digital watermark. This won’t guarantee theft prevention, but it can provide some peace of mind while your manuscript is circulating.

Don’ts

• Pay to Submit

Legitimate publishers do not ask for payment to consider your manuscript. If a publisher requests a fee for submission, it’s a red flag. Genuine publishers invest in their authors, covering costs associated with the publication process, and will evaluate your work based solely on its merit, not your wallet.

• Submit to Random Publishers

Before submitting your manuscript, research potential publishers to ensure your book aligns with their catalog. Submitting to random publishers not only wastes your time but can also damage your credibility as an author. Tailoring your submissions increases the likelihood of acceptance by presenting a well-matched proposal.

• Send Your Only Copy

Always back up your manuscript before sending it to publishers. This precaution ensures you won’t lose your work due to unexpected issues, such as technical errors or lost emails. Whether digital or physical, having a backup gives you peace of mind and preserves your hard work.

• Send to Multiple Publishers at Once 

Some publishers have strict guidelines against simultaneous submissions, which can lead to disqualification if you’re found violating their rules. Always read each publisher’s submission guidelines carefully. If they allow simultaneous submissions, ensure that you keep track of where your manuscript is being sent for consideration.

Digital Rights and Copyright Protection

Before submitting, make sure your manuscript is protected. Copyrighting your manuscript is as easy as registering it with the U.S. Copyright Office. You don’t legally need to copyright your work before submitting it, but it can give you extra peace of mind.

• Copyright Basics

In most countries, your manuscript is automatically copyrighted the moment you put it in a tangible form, such as a Word document or printed copy. However, registering it officially offers more legal protection if you ever need to take action.

• Digital Rights Management (DRM)

If you’re sending your book electronically, DRM can help secure it. DRM prevents unauthorized copying or sharing of your manuscript. However, some publishers may not use DRM, so it’s best to ask beforehand.

How Publishers Handle Manuscripts

What happens after you submit your manuscript? Publishers receive thousands of submissions every year, and most go through an evaluation process.

• Manuscript Evaluation

First, your submission goes through an initial review, where editors decide if it’s worth reading in full. If it passes this stage, they’ll read the manuscript more thoroughly. Most of the time, manuscripts are handled with confidentiality, and publishers have policies to ensure your work isn’t shared or misused.

• Submitting Books to Publishers for Different Genres

Different genres require paying attention to each genre’s unique guidelines. But how do you submit books to publishers in a way that aligns with their expectations? It is not that hard. Start by researching which publishers specialize in your genre—this ensures your manuscript reaches the right audience.

For example, science fiction publishers often focus on futuristic settings and innovative ideas, while romance publishers may prioritize strong character-driven stories with emotional depth. Some publishers may request longer synopses for complex genres like fantasy, while others might prefer shorter, punchy pitches for thrillers. Always personalize your submission according to the publisher’s guidelines.

Submission Tracking and Record Keeping

One of the smartest things you can do is keep track of where you’ve submitted the manuscript. It’s easy to lose track if you’re submitting to multiple places, and sending to the same publisher twice can look unprofessional.

A simple spreadsheet can make it easier for you. Keep a record of which publishers you’ve submitted to, the dates, and any responses you receive. This will also help you know when it’s time to follow up or send your manuscript elsewhere.

How to Avoid Scams When Submitting Your Manuscript

Unfortunately, there are bad actors out there. Recognizing publishing scams can save you from them. A major red flag is if a publisher asks you for money upfront—real publishers make money off your book sales, not from you.

Stick with trusted publishers and always double-check their websites and reviews. It’s also a good idea to avoid submitting to anyone who promises guaranteed publication in exchange for a fee.

If, in the worst case, you believe your manuscript has been compromised, contact an attorney and register a copyright claim immediately. However, such situations are rare, especially if you stick to reputable publishers.

Tips for First-Time Authors 

If this is your first time submitting a manuscript, it can feel overwhelming. But don’t worry—it gets easier.

• Polish Your Manuscript

Before you submit, make sure your manuscript is in its best possible shape. Proofread it several times, or consider hiring an editor to polish it up.

• Write a Killer Query Letter

Your query letter is your first impression, so make it count. Be professional and concise, and highlight what makes your book unique.

• Submit with Confidence

Once you’ve done your research, followed the guidelines, and polished your work, submit with confidence. Publishers are always looking for great new books.

Ending Note

So, is it safe to submit a manuscript to a publisher? Absolutely—if you take the right precautions. Protect your work, choose reputable publishers, and always follow the submission guidelines to ensure your manuscript is handled properly. Registering your copyright, using secure submission methods, and avoiding shady publishers are key to keeping your work safe.

It’s also important to do your research and target publishers who align with your genre and style. Remember, publishers are looking for great content, not to steal your ideas. With the right approach, your manuscript will be in good hands, and you’ll be one step closer to seeing your book in print.

FAQs 

Should I submit directly to a publisher or work with an agent?

Both choices are good, but having an agent gives you more protection, and they might already know people at publishing companies. They can help improve your manuscript and make sure it reaches the right people.

What are common red flags when submitting to publishers?

Be aware and avoid publishers who ask for upfront fees or make overly generous promises. Legitimate publishers earn money from book sales, not submission fees.

Should I submit only a copy of the manuscript?

Don’t send your only copy! Always make backups, either on your computer or on paper, so you don’t lose your work because of technical problems or misunderstandings.

How do I know if a publisher is reputable?

Check their background, read reviews, and find feedback from other authors. Stay away from publishers with hidden costs or unclear contact details.