Tips on presentation

Your work must be typed.

Spelling, punctuation and grammar must be correct. Use the same style in:

• spellings
• capital letters
• subheadings
• directions
• footnotes

Use double spacing, with a full blank line between each line of text. Leave wide margins. These make it easier for editors to add notes to your work.

Number each page. Include a front sheet with:

• the title
• your name and address
• the number of words in the document

Check the submission requirements with the agent or publisher. If you’ve written a book, it’s common to send just the first few chapters and a synopsis.

For examples showing how to lay out film, stage, radio and television scripts, visit the BBC Writers website. It also has writing tips and ideas to help you get started.

Page last updated: 4 November 2025