I hope all of you are keeping track of your submissions. It’s vital to know what you sent, who you sent it to, and when you sent it. I used my Excel program to create submission sheets for manuscripts and articles. I even included a space for notes so I can jot down any contact I have with the publisher, like if my article is being sent on for further review. There is also a space for payment amount, which I highlight when my check is received. At the end of the year I add up the highlighted areas to tell me how much I made.

I plan on making a few new submission sheets. One for queries (including snail mail and e-mail), and sheets to track individual manuscripts so I know at a glance all the publishers I sent that one story to.

Make sure you’re keeping track of where your stories are going. You will find it a tremendous help, especially at tax time.

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