You’ve put a lot of yourself into this manuscript, your time, your ideas, your emotions. Every page carries something personal. But still getting published feels like a tough battle even after so much effort. It’s annoying, confusing, and often discouraging. So, how to avoid manuscript rejection? Why do publishers reject manuscripts? And what mistakes cause manuscript rejection? It’s often not about the quality of your book, but some common manuscript mistakes that can slow down the process or prove to be one of the reasons for manuscript rejection. 

At Austin Macauley Publishers, we don’t expect perfection. Our editorial teams love working with authors to nurture their manuscripts and avoid common writing mistakes, refine structure, and develop characters. 

Here are five mistakes that manuscripts get rejected for, and how to fix manuscript mistakes before submission. 

1. Lack of Clear Structure and Flow 

Imagine reading a story where the chapters feel disconnected, the pacing jumps from slow to rushed, or key plot points appear without warning. Frustrating, right? This is one of the most common book manuscript errors authors make, and it’s often one of the easiest publishing mistakes to avoid by following proofreading tips for writers. 

Lack of clarity in structure doesn’t mean your story or ideas are weak. It simply means that the way your manuscript unfolds can confuse readers or editors. Even an excellent concept can lose influence if the narrative doesn’t lead the reader smoothly from start to finish. 

At Austin Macauley, we spend a lot of time assisting authors to enhance structure, making sure every chapter, paragraph, and sentence works together. But manuscripts with confusing flow require more time in repair mode rather than enhancement mode, which can slow the editing process. 

How to fix it: 

• Outline your chapters or sections before submission. 

• Read your manuscript out loud to catch confusing transitions. 

• Ask yourself if the story or argument is set up clearly and sensibly. 

2. Underdeveloped Characters or Ideas 

Some manuscripts contain incredible ideas or concepts, yet they don’t fully engage the reader. Characters may feel flat, themes may feel surface-level, or arguments may not explore the depths of your topic. This is a very common manuscript mistake and one that can be fixed with reflection and detail. 

For fiction, underdeveloped characters can make readers feel disconnected from your story. For non-fiction, a shallow exploration of ideas may leave readers wondering why your argument matters. 

Austin Macauley editors love working with authors to build depth in characters, enrich narratives, and clarify themes. But manuscripts that rely entirely on potential rather than execution can take longer to refine. 

How to fix it: 

• Ask yourself why each character acts as they do. 

• Explore emotions, motivations, and relationships. 

• Dig further into your ideas. What does each point actually mean for the reader? 

Some depth gives editors strong material to work with and ensures your manuscript relates to readers on a more meaningful level. 

Hook: Remember, your characters and ideas are your manuscript’s heartbeat; the more vivid they are, the more your readers will feel alive in your story. 

3. Poor Grammar 

Typos and grammar errors are some of the easiest mistakes to avoid, yet they are common author mistakes in many submissions. While Austin Macauley provides professional editorial assistance, manuscripts that are riddled with errors can distract from your story’s strengths and hinder the editorial process. 

This doesn’t indicate your manuscript should be perfect before submission. It does mean that the draft should be polished and readable, allowing editors to create a focal point on enhancing your story rather than fixing small errors continually. 

How to fix it: 

• Read your work more than once. 

• Ask a friend or family member to assess your work. 

• Even little corrections using manuscript editing tips can make a huge difference in a manuscript and make it feel more professional. 

Hook: Think of a clean, polished manuscript as rolling out the red carpet for your story; it lets your ideas take centre stage. 

4. Ignoring Submission Guidelines 

At times, manuscripts get rejected not because of writing complications, but due to simple submission oversights. Missing necessary requested materials, wrong formatting, or ignoring word count suggestions are usual errors that can delay consideration. 

At Austin Macauley, guidelines assist as manuscript submission tips to start on the right foot, so they can focus on developing your story and not chase missing details. 

How to fix it: 

• Carefully review submission instructions. 

• Ensure formatting, word count, and required documents are correct. 

• Submit an author bio and synopsis if requested. 

Hook: Think of submission guidelines as a VIP pass for your manuscript; it makes sure your story gets seen and brought up the way it deserves. 

5. Lack of Revision and Reflection 

Even the most passionate authors often forward first drafts. While that passion is admirable, first drafts almost always need a second look. Revision is where your manuscript grows, obtains clarity, and changes into a polished work ready for editorial observation. 

At Austin Macauley, we work carefully with authors during amendments; it’s part of the publishing journey. But manuscripts that are not revisited often contain avoidable issues that could have been fixed before submission. 

How to fix it: 

• Step away from your manuscript for a few days before revising. 

• Read it critically, looking for repetition, pacing issues, or unclear sections. 

• Focus on strengthening openings, endings, and transitions. 

Bringing It All Together 

At Austin Macauley Publishers, the goal is to fully assist authors at all stages of their publishing journey. Our editorial teams work hard to turn the potential of manuscripts into a publishable book by identifying writing mistakes authors make. The five mistakes mentioned above aren’t reasons to fear rejection; they’re opportunities for authors to make their work even stronger. 

Your story deserves the best chance. So, take a deep breath and prepare to share your story with the world. We’re excited to help you every step of the way.