5 Common Mistakes First-Time Indian Authors Make When Submitting Manuscripts (And How to Avoid Them)

For countless aspiring writers across India, the dream of seeing their name in print begins with a manuscript. Yet, the path between completing your book or poetry collection and holding the first author copy is filled with hurdles—especially for new authors navigating the world of publishing for the first time. While passion and creativity are vital, understanding the unspoken expectations of reputed publishers can make all the difference.

Understanding the Submission Landscape in India

India’s literary scene is vibrant, diverse, and welcoming to new voices. Publishers like Shrihind Publications are actively seeking new authors and regularly issue calls for writers for anthologies, poetry collections, and short stories. However, the competition is fierce, and the submission stage is often where many promising manuscripts stall, not for lack of talent, but because of avoidable mistakes.

1. Ignoring Submission Guidelines

This is perhaps the most frequent and easily preventable mistake. Every publisher, whether handling anthologies or full-length books, provides specific guidelines for manuscript submission. These might include formatting instructions, word limits, file types, and cover letter requirements. Overlooking these signals lack of attention to detail and can lead to instant rejection, even if your writing is exceptional.

How to avoid: Always read the submission guidelines in detail on the publisher’s website. Double-check your manuscript before sending. Publishers like Shrihind Publications provide clear instructions for manuscript submission in India—following them demonstrates your professionalism.

2. Submitting Unedited or Incomplete Work

First-time authors, eager to share their story, sometimes submit drafts riddled with typos, grammar errors, or missing chapters. Remember, an unpolished manuscript reduces your chances, no matter how strong your voice or story idea.

How to avoid: Edit, revise, and proofread your work multiple times. Seek feedback from trusted readers. Consider professional editing services, especially for your debut. Publishers look for manuscripts that respect both craft and reader experience.

3. Lack of Clarity in Genre or Theme

Whether you are submitting to an anthology on patriotism, a poetry collection, or a novel, being clear about your genre and theme is crucial. Submitting a romance story to a festival-themed anthology, or sending devotional poems to a competition focused on family, shows a mismatch and reduces your chances of selection.

How to avoid: Carefully review the call for entries. For example, Shrihind Publications’ anthologies such as Mother’s Day (Maa) or Jo Shaheed Hue Hain… have distinct themes. Tailor your submission to match the theme and respect the publisher’s vision for the project.

4. Forgetting the Cover Letter or Author Bio

Some new authors believe their manuscript should speak for itself and ignore the cover letter or author biography sections. However, publishers want to know who you are—your background, your connection to the work, and what motivates your writing.

How to avoid: Write a concise and authentic cover letter. Share a short bio that reflects your literary interests, cultural roots, and previous writing experience if any (even if only on social media or school magazines). This increases your credibility and helps the publisher see you as a committed author.

5. Not Researching the Publisher

Sending your manuscript blindly to every publisher you find slows down your journey and increases rejections. Each publisher has a unique ethos, preferred genres, and submission cycles.

How to avoid: Research publishers who are accepting new writers in India. Shrihind Publications is known for its support of new and first-time authors, its diverse anthology projects, and offering paid publishing services for full-length books. Choose publishers whose values align with your own, and mention why you’re submitting to them specifically.

The Value of Anthology Projects and Writing Competitions

For first-time authors, participating in anthologies or creative writing competitions is a powerful stepping stone. Anthologies allow you to share space with other talented writers, gain visibility, and develop confidence. National and international contests foster discipline and bring your work to a wider audience. Shrihind Publications regularly announces writing opportunities in India—from the Vividha International Creative Writing Competition to culturally-rooted projects like Avanti.

• Follow anthology call for entries to build a strong literary portfolio.
• Respect the word count, theme, and tone described in the contest announcement.
• Winning or being published in a reputed competition enhances your credibility as an emerging author.

Building Author Credibility: Certificates, Features, and Beyond

Entrants and winners of reputed projects receive more than just publication—they build a literary resume. Certificates, social media features, and publication credits open doors to future anthology projects, and sometimes to independent book deals. Publishers such as Shrihind Publications highlight their contributors, offering new writers a lasting platform in the Indian literary space.

Practical Tips for Aspiring Authors

• Polish your manuscript before submission; even poetry and micro-tales benefit from multiple drafts.
• Keep a record of submissions, acceptances, and rejections to stay organized and professional.
• Engage with publishers’ social media or join their mailing lists for announcements about submission open India and anthology deadlines.
• Stay open to feedback and view each submission as a step in your literary journey, not just a destination.

Becoming a Published Author Is Within Reach

While the world of publishing may seem daunting, especially for first-time writers, preparation and perseverance pay off. Avoiding these common mistakes will not only increase your chances of getting published, but also help you grow as a writer. Embrace opportunities like anthology calls, national competitions, and manuscript evaluations to carve your niche in India’s dynamic literary landscape.

If you are looking for a book publisher in India that welcomes new voices and offers genuine publishing support, explore the ongoing projects, anthology invitations, and publishing services at Shrihind Publications. Connect with a team that nurtures creativity and celebrates every author’s unique journey.

Frequently Asked Questions

What types of writing does Shrihind Publications accept?
Shrihind Publications welcomes poetry, short stories, essays, micro-tales, and quotes for anthologies. It also offers publishing opportunities for full-length manuscripts in various genres.

Can first-time authors submit their work?
Absolutely. The publisher encourages submissions from first-time and emerging authors and provides evaluation and publishing support for promising manuscripts.

Are there any mandatory fees for anthology participation?
For some competitions, selected authors are required to purchase a mandatory author copy after selection. Full details are provided with each project announcement.

How can I increase my chances of getting published?
Follow submission guidelines, polish your work, align your piece with the anthology theme, and write a clear cover letter. Participating in writing contests is also a good way to build your profile.

How do I stay updated about current anthology calls and contests?
Follow Shrihind Publications on social media, check the website regularly, or sign up for their newsletter to receive updates on submission deadlines and new projects.

Is editing support available for new authors?
Shrihind Publications offers editing and publication support for accepted manuscripts, especially for first-time authors looking for a credible publishing partner.

Ready to take the next step? Reach out to Shrihind Publications at shrihindpublications@gmail.com or call/WhatsApp +91 70897 84089 to discuss your manuscript, anthology idea, or to inquire about new author opportunities. Your publishing journey begins with a single submission.