It may seem obvious, but all manuscripts need to be typed.  No editors or publishers will be receptive to reviewing hand-written manuscripts, no matter how talented the writer.  Fortunately, almost all writers use electronic tools, and most agents and publishers use online tools that include uploading manuscripts (or emailing manuscripts) in preferred formats: pdf or docx are standards. Microsoft Word, Open Office, Google Docs or Corel Word Perfect can all prepare suitable manuscripts.

Manuscripts should be typed in a simple font like Courier or Times New Roman, 12 pitch, and be double-spaced.  Although hundreds of font styles are now available electronically, the preferred font for editors remains Courier, but use whatever particular font the recipient requests.  Existing fonts can be quickly changed by highlighting all of the text and changing the font to the reviewer’s preferred font. Some editors require that page numbers be added, and others may wish footers to include the last name of the author and the title or short identify of the manuscript. 

In the rare instance that the manuscript should be printed and mailed, then the manuscript should be mailed in either a sturdy envelope of sufficient size for the number of pages, or a manuscript mailing box (with inner and outer boxes) can be used.  The manuscript should not be bound, although a paper clip for short manuscripts can be used.

If mailing a manuscript, always enclose a self-addressed, stamped envelope (known as an SASE) for the return of your manuscript, or let the editor know you do not need the manuscript returned, and then you would include a smaller SASE for his/her return correspondence.