Submitting to Literary Magazines: Our Quick Guide

Whether you’re crafting poetry, short stories, or essays, literary magazines offer a platform to showcase your work and connect with a wider audience. However, the process of submitting can be daunting, especially if you’re new to it. Our editors-in-chief at Eucalyptus Lit have compiled a guide to navigating the submission process—we hope that you find this resource helpful!

1. Understand the magazine you’re submitting to

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Before you even think about submitting, familiarize yourself with the literary magazines you’re interested in. Each magazine has its own unique style, focus, and audience. Some favor experimental poetry, while others lean towards more traditional styles of short stories or CNF. Some journals specialize in poetry, others in prose; some allow for translations, others don’t. 

Be careful to ensure that the work you’re submitting to a journal aligns with what they publish! Read through several issues or online samples to get a feel for the magazine’s aesthetic and thematic preferences. This will help you determine if your work aligns with their content.

2. Follow the submission guidelines

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Every literary magazine has its own set of submission guidelines, which are typically detailed on their website. These guidelines cover everything from formatting and word count to the types of files they accept. Adhering to these guidelines is crucial; failing to do so can result in your submission being automatically rejected. Pay attention to specifics like:

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• Word Count: Adhere to the magazine’s maximum and minimum word limits.

• Format: Common formats include double-spaced text for prose and single-spaced text for poetry, standard margins, and serif font types like Times New Roman and Garamond.

• File Type: Most magazines prefer .doc, .docx, or .pdf files. Ensure you send your work in the requested format.

3. Prepare a strong cover letter

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A well-crafted cover letter can leave the editors with a favorable impression before even reading your work. Check out our guide to writing cover letters here!

4. Prepare your submission

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Ensure your manuscript is free from errors before submission. Proofread for grammatical mistakes, typos, and inconsistencies. It’s also a good idea to have someone else read through your work for an additional perspective. If your work includes a specific format (like dialogue or poetic stanzas), ensure it follows standard conventions and is consistent throughout. Some journals will accept your work despite there being mistakes and ask you to fix any errors after the acceptance—but it’s a good look to have a well-polished piece submitted in the first place. 

5. Submit your work

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Many literary magazines use online submission platforms such as Submittable, while others may accept submissions via email, Google Form, or even postal mail. Follow the submission instructions exactly as outlined. If you’re submitting electronically, make sure your files are named appropriately (e.g., “LastName_Title.doc”) and that your contact information is correct.

6. Keep track of your submissions

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Keep a record of where and when you’ve submitted your work. There are various tools and apps available that can help you manage your submissions; Google Sheets is a popular one. Note the magazine’s response time and follow up only if their guidelines explicitly state that you should do so after a certain period. 

7. Celebrate your successes

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When you receive an acceptance letter, take the time to celebrate! Getting published in a literary magazine is a significant achievement and a testament to your hard work and talent. Don’t be discouraged when faced with rejections: they are part of the process and a sign that you're pushing boundaries. Keep writing, stay persistent, and let your passion guide you forward — be proud of yourself for every acceptance, and let each milestone fuel your journey!

Submitting to literary magazines can be a rewarding endeavor, providing exposure and validation for your creative work. By understanding magazine preferences, adhering to guidelines, and preparing your submissions meticulously, you increase your chances of success. Embrace the process, learn from feedback, and keep writing. Your next great opportunity could be just a submission away!