01
Use the current full draft
Export or save the version that reflects the manuscript you actually want checked, not an older editing copy.
Guide
How to prepare a DOCX manuscript for continuity review
Clean up a DOCX draft before running a Wise Wombat continuity assessment.
Short version
What matters most
DOCX is usually the best format for active drafts. The goal is not perfect formatting. The goal is a clean current manuscript with chapter order, headings, and body text preserved.
- Do not rewrite just to satisfy the tool. Use the real draft.
- If you maintain a separate style sheet, keep it nearby for your own review.
- Run another pass after major scene moves or continuity fixes.
Steps
Prepare the manuscript
Use these steps before running a Wise Wombat continuity assessment.
02
Keep chapter headings clear
Consistent chapter titles or headings help preserve structure and make findings easier to review.
03
Remove comments that are not manuscript text
Delete or resolve notes that should not be treated as part of the story.
04
Check obvious ordering issues
Make sure chapters, prologues, epilogues, and bonus material are in the intended reading order.
FAQ
Common questions
Format and workflow decisions are easier when the goal is clear: a readable current manuscript in the intended order.
Does the DOCX need perfect formatting?
No. Clear chapter order and readable manuscript text matter more than polished layout.
Should I include front matter?
Include it if it is part of the reader experience or contains story-relevant context. Otherwise, the manuscript body is usually enough.