How to Track Literary Agent Submissions with a Planner

Submitting your manuscript to literary agents is one of the most exciting, yet daunting, parts of a writer's journey. It's a crucial step in the process of getting published and requires careful attention to detail, organization, and persistence. Keeping track of submissions is essential to ensure that your efforts are systematic and that you're not duplicating submissions to the same agents.

Using a planner to track literary agent submissions can help you stay organized, focused, and motivated throughout this process. In this article, we'll explore how to effectively use a planner to keep track of your submissions, ensuring you're well-prepared, efficient, and managing the process with ease.

Why Use a Planner for Literary Agent Submissions?

When submitting to literary agents, it's easy to become overwhelmed by the sheer number of submissions you'll need to send, follow up on, and manage. A planner serves as a tool that centralizes all your submission details in one place, allowing you to track each step of the process with clarity. Here are a few reasons why using a planner can make a significant difference:

• Organization: A planner helps you stay organized, allowing you to quickly reference submission dates, agent preferences, and feedback.
• Prevent Duplication: A planner ensures you don't accidentally send your manuscript to the same agent more than once.
• Track Deadlines and Follow-ups: Literary agents often provide timelines for when you can expect to hear back. A planner allows you to set reminders and follow up on submissions when needed.
• Reflection and Analysis: By tracking your submissions, you can assess trends, identify which agents respond positively, and tailor future submissions accordingly.

Choosing the Right Planner

Before you begin tracking your submissions, you need to choose the right planner. There are several types of planners available, from digital tools to paper-based planners, and the best choice depends on your personal preferences and workflow. Below are some options to consider:

• Paper Planners: Many writers prefer paper planners for their tactile feel. Look for a planner that provides space for both daily and weekly tracking. A planner with dedicated sections for notes or specific pages for submission tracking is ideal.
• Digital Planners: If you prefer the convenience of technology, digital planners (like Google Sheets, Excel, or apps like Trello and Notion) allow you to quickly add and update information, access your submission records on multiple devices, and even set reminders.
• Submission Tracking Apps: There are also specialized apps designed for managing literary submissions. Tools like Submittable and QueryTracker can help you track where your work has been sent, what stage it's at, and any follow-up actions required.

What Information to Track in Your Planner

Once you've chosen your planner, you need to decide what information to track. A well-organized submission log should provide you with all the details you need at a glance. Below is a list of essential information to track:

1. Agent's Name and Agency

For each submission, record the name of the literary agent and the agency they work for. This helps you ensure that each submission is directed to the correct person and that you can easily look up any agency-specific requirements or preferences.

2. Agent's Submission Guidelines

Each literary agent may have specific submission guidelines, such as the required manuscript length, submission format, or whether they accept email submissions. Include a section in your planner for these details, so you always know the requirements for each agent.

3. Submission Date

Note the exact date you submitted your manuscript to each agent. This is essential for tracking the timeline of your submissions and ensuring you follow up within the expected time frame.

4. Manuscript Version

Keep track of which version of your manuscript you submitted. If you've made revisions between submissions, note the version number or date to avoid confusion and ensure you are submitting the correct draft.

5. Submission Format

Record the submission format (e.g., email, physical mail, or online submission portal). Each agent may have different preferences, and keeping this information in your planner helps you avoid mistakes.

6. Response Date

Once you receive a response from an agent, record the date. This allows you to monitor the pace of responses and ensure that you're following up in a timely manner.

7. Response Status

Track the outcome of each submission. There are several possible outcomes:

• Accepted: This means the agent is interested and may request more materials or a phone call.
• Rejection: If the agent declines your submission, record this outcome. It's helpful for future analysis and can also provide an opportunity for you to learn more about what agents are looking for.
• No Response: Some agents may not respond at all. If you haven't heard back within the typical timeframe, make a note in your planner to follow up.

8. Follow-up Reminders

Set reminders to follow up with agents who have not responded within the expected time frame. This ensures that you don't let potential opportunities slip through the cracks.

9. Agent Feedback

If any agent provides feedback on your manuscript, note this in your planner. This feedback can be invaluable for improving your manuscript or tailoring future submissions.

10. Submission Status

Track the stage of your submission---whether it is still awaiting a response, under consideration, or marked as closed (either due to rejection or because you've withdrawn it).

How to Set Up Your Planner for Submissions

Now that you know what information to track, it's time to set up your planner. Whether you're using a physical planner or a digital tool, organizing your submission log is key to making it efficient and effective.

Step 1: Create a Template

Set up a basic template with columns for each of the key pieces of information mentioned above. For example, if you're using a digital planner or spreadsheet, create a table with the following columns:

1. Agent Name
2. Agency
3. Submission Date
4. Manuscript Version
5. Submission Format
6. Response Date
7. Response Status
8. Follow-up Reminders
9. Agent Feedback
10. Submission Status

For paper planners, you can create a similar table in the "notes" or "submission tracking" section.

Step 2: Input Your Initial Information

Once the template is set up, input the initial details for each agent you plan to submit to. Include their name, agency, submission guidelines, and any other information that will help you tailor your approach.

Step 3: Track Progress

As you submit your manuscript, update your planner with the submission date, the version you sent, and the format. Once you receive a response, update the status and add any feedback or follow-up reminders.

Step 4: Analyze Your Submissions

Periodically, take some time to reflect on your submissions and assess any patterns. For example, you might notice that certain types of agents tend to respond more positively to your manuscript, or you might find that specific revisions have helped your submission rate improve. Analyzing this data can help you fine-tune your future submissions and refine your approach.

Additional Tips for Success

1. Set Realistic Submission Goals

It's tempting to send out numerous submissions at once, but spreading your submissions out over time can be more effective. Set a goal for how many agents you want to approach each week or month, balancing your time and energy for other writing-related tasks.

2. Be Patient and Persistent

The process of submitting to literary agents can be long and filled with rejection. Stay patient and keep track of your submissions in your planner. Persistence is key, and keeping your submission process organized helps you stay on top of things.

3. Network with Other Writers

Engage with other writers through online communities, conferences, or workshops. Networking with fellow writers can provide valuable advice, insight, and recommendations for agents to submit to.

4. Research Agents Thoroughly

Before submitting to an agent, do thorough research to ensure they're the right fit for your manuscript. Look at the agent's client list, the genres they represent, and their specific submission guidelines.

Conclusion

Tracking literary agent submissions with a planner is an invaluable tool for staying organized and focused during the manuscript submission process. By keeping detailed records of your submissions, responses, and follow-ups, you'll be able to approach the process methodically and reduce the risk of errors. Whether you choose a paper planner or a digital tool, the key is to ensure that your submission process is as efficient and organized as possible. With persistence, patience, and the right tracking system in place, you'll improve your chances of finding the right literary agent for your work and taking the next step toward becoming a published author.

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