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One of the things I never realised when I first decided to try and find an agent/publisher was how often I'd end up in the post office packaging up my submissions. I did realise I'd spend a fair bit of time waiting on the postman to bring news - but I never thought about the sending out process beyond writing my book and covering letter/outline. I never guessed I'd spend so much time printing out covering letters, chapters and outlines - nor imagined the amount of paper and ink cartridges I would need - not to mention printers! Then there's al the time spent tracking down up-to-date names and addresses, not always easy despite the internet - although more agents and publishers have their own websites now. I rushed to my local post office yesterday (I love the fact they are open on Sundays) minutes before closing. I have my routine finely-tuned - buy large envelopes (I always seem to have run out or mislaid them) - write my name and address on the return envelope (grimace at my handwriting) put it inside another with the editor/agents details on with my submission package. Then I have to have the whole thing weighed and get the correct postage twice, remove the SAE and put the stamps on put it back in and put the stamps or pre-paid postage label on the main envelope and seal it all up before handing it over. You need about six hands to do this - and I nearly always get in a tangle with those peel-off seals. At this point I usually panic that I've forgotten something or put the wrong date on my letter - but it's off on its way and I can feel pleased with myself for a minute and daydream that this time I will get a yes reply.

I thought it would be nice to highlight the best of our “advice” giving posts from the past year. Below is a sampling of posts that may help you reach your resolutions. Good luck!

Having a case of the Mondays? These tips from authors Gillian Butler, Ph. D., and Tony Hope, M.D., should help you get down to work. (more…)

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