I am going to be using a pen name for my writing. Please do not question this because it's something I've decided upon. My real name is very unusual and next to impossible for people to pronounce. I have friends who pronounce it/spell it wrong that I've known for awhile and also, I want to keep my privacy. Anyway, my question is this . . . . Do I make submissions using my pen name or my real name? And when does the pen name actually come into play? When do I bring it up?
Your pen name goes on the by-line of the manuscript. All of the contact details should be for your real name (i.e. the contact details at the top of the manuscript, and in the cover letter).
Yes your pen name only comes into play in the actual manuscript. If you're dealing with agents then you have to use your real name. In fact it's pretty pointless using a pen name during the submission process. Once an agent or publisher agrees to publish your work then you can mention your preference for a pen name.
Look at a guide such as Writer's Market. It shows you exactly where to use your own name and where to use your pen name in your manuscript. There are online sites that have the same information. Do your research - there's a standard procedure for doing this.
Hi, Also agree with Banzai. If after all you submitted under your pen name, how would your agent assuming you're successful, know who to make the check out to? Cheers.
