Legal Definitions - manuscript

A "manuscript" refers to an author's original written work that has not yet been formally published. It encompasses any complete or near-complete text, whether handwritten or typed, that is intended for eventual public release, such as a book, article, or musical score.

• Novel Submission: A fiction writer completes the final draft of their new novel. They then send the entire typed document, chapter by chapter, to their literary agent and publisher for review and editing before it can be printed and sold in stores.

  Explanation: This typed document is a manuscript because it is the author's complete, original work, prepared for publication but not yet released to the public.

• Academic Journal Submission: A team of researchers finishes writing a detailed report on their latest scientific study. They submit this comprehensive document to a specialized academic journal, hoping it will pass peer review and be published for the scientific community to read.

  Explanation: Before it undergoes peer review and is officially printed in the journal, this research report is considered a manuscript. It is an unpublished work product that the authors propose for publication.

• Historical Archival Discovery: A university archivist uncovers a box of previously unknown, handwritten diaries and personal correspondence from a prominent historical figure. These documents have never been publicly shared or printed in any book.

  Explanation: These original, handwritten diaries and letters are considered manuscripts because they are unpublished writings. Even if their original author didn't intend them for formal publication, they represent a complete written work product that could potentially be published or studied.