Submission Allowance
 by: Scott Lindsay

When you understand what an editor allows in the way of submissions you can begin to see there may be more options available to you than you may have realized. By understanding the ‘big three’ submission types you will find a greater ability to maximize your publishing potential.

What is a Parallel Submission?

When you conduct research for a non-fiction article it is possible to take the research and create several articles on the same topic. This goal can be accomplished through the adaptation of specific word count requirements and a variety of perspectives and emphases. These articles are then submitted to publishers – one unique article per submission.

The premise behind this technique is to take the research you performed on the subject and allow it the greatest possibility of publication by allowing a variety of publishers the opportunity to review uniquely written material on a singular, yet well researched topic.

The added benefit is that by writing in a variety of styles on the same subject you are continuing the process of fine tuning your ability to wordsmith.

This method is effective because editors often only look at material that is not being sent to another publisher. By providing a unique article to each publication your overall research is maximized for potential publication.

What are Multiple Submissions?

This term refers to a publisher’s willingness to allow you to send them more than one submission at a time. Multiple Submissions are typically allowed for low word count articles or filler material. These submissions will not take long for the editor to look through so having several to choose from is advantageous for the editor and provides great prospects for you.

What are Simultaneous Submissions?

Many editors will allow an author to provide simultaneous submissions. This concept allows you to send your work to more than one editor/publisher at the same time. This allows the author another unique opportunity to market their work for potential publication. It should be noted that not all publishers accept a submission that has been sent to another publication while other publishers allow the practice on the condition that the author note the fact in their cover letter.

There’s Just One More Thing

Be sure to read through all guidelines whenever submitting material to a potential publisher. Even the kindest editor lacks patience for a blatant disregard for stated submission guidelines.

You expect the editor to be professional so return the favor. Make sure your correspondence is error free, polite and professional in tone. This can go a long way in establishing your ability to interact in a peer to peer fashion. It also exudes a tone of confidence that can be assistive in allowing the editor to have a similar confidence in your abilities.

About The Author

Scott Lindsay is a web developer and entrepreneur. He is the founder of FaithWriters (www.faithwriters.com) and many other web projects. FaithWriters has grown to become one of the largest online destinations for Christian writers. Members include writers from all around the world. Please visit the website at: http://www.faithwriters.com.