According to Merriam-Webster Dictionary, a manuscript (noun) is 'the original copy of a play, book, piece of music, etc., before it has been printed'.
Thus, a manuscript is either a hand-written or a typed composition in its very original form, which aims to be published. A manuscript is a document, which can be tagged as the final draft before any kind of final print or publication.
The process of manuscript writing follows a much-customized mode of engraving an idea into the mind of the writer. This is followed by the need for structuring and the ultimate penning down of the idea.
The manuscript writing can be exemplified by the author's original content or copy of the book, journal article, scientific research paper, or any other write-up, which is ready for publication.
While initiating the process of manuscript writing, make sure that you remain consistently conscious of the following aspects:
Get Aware of Publishing Ethics
Get Permissions and Acquire License
Add Copyright to the Manuscript
Refrain Plagiarism
Proofread, Edited, and again Proofread
Get Aware of Publishing Ethics.
You need to be aware of the publication ethics. There should not be any violations regarding the misuse of intellectual property. Some of the common declarations that you need to consider while manuscript writing are-
Making transparent disclosure regarding the potential conflicts of interest
Making declarations about the involvement of any animal or human participants,
For the appropriate maintenance of publication ethics, it is always recommended that you collect the signed ‘Informed consent letters’ from the participants and the authorities.
Get Permissions and Acquire License.
Always remember that a manuscript must be legally protected. Your writing is your intellectual property, and it must be secured from any kind of future allegations. For this purpose, always get permission to reproduce an idea. There is also the need to gain a license in terms ofmaterializing your ideas. Legal security for your manuscript can be obtained by making the necessary payments. However, at the same time, you also need to remain conscious about not stealing other publications or ideas.
Add Copyright to The Manuscript.
Usually, the publishers hold the copyright on your manuscript, under their imprint. At this juncture, the publisher takes your permission to hold the copyright over your manuscript. However, if you deny giving your consent, then it is always recommended that you gain your copyright over the manuscript. For this purpose, you need to apply, pay fees, and get the copyright from the government.
Refrain from Plagiarism.
Plagiarism in your manuscript is never tolerated. While writing the manuscript, make sure that every word and every sentence is part of your original construct. Do not copy-paste any data or statements from former writers or researchers Paper guide. It is the most sensitive violation of legal and intellectual rights, which is also subject to a huge penalty. Refrain yourself completely from plagiarism
Proofread, Edited, and Again Proofread.
As you complete writing your manuscript, it is high time that you spend enough time proofing your manuscript. As you do so, continue editing all those areas that need more expressions and precisions. The language and the content of the manuscript must be well scrutinized. Edit your manuscript for –
to makes sense
express clear ideas
well-organized
systematically synchronized
correct sentences
well-executed paragraphs
writing style
simple expressions to complex ideas
engaging read
grammatical errors
syntactic arrangements
absolute formatting
As you, accomplish editing the manuscript. Proofread again for few times, at regular intervals. Repeat the process until you are satisfied with the manuscript. Finally, accompany your manuscript with a Cover letter and send it to your Editor or Agent for publication.