A brief criteria for publishing?

[Mandorin Anamor]

Greetings sages of the literary world, I have completed the second re-write of my first novel, and am midway through the third and hopefully final rewrite.
Once it is completed I am intending to embark on a final read through (that hopefully involves precious little rewriting) and whilst I do this am intending to circulate several copies among some close friends who i know to be adept enough in the language, and have the dedication to proof read it for me. Once they return the copies with their critiques and I have finalised my own rewrite i will only then think of seeking an agent.
But in respect to that time in the distant future, i was just hoping that some of you could supply me with a few breif guidelines on preparing the manuscript for veiwing by others than freinds, say an agent or someone in the industry.
Ive read so many pointers on this subject, and was wondering if you guys could illuminate me as to the those necessary to getting veiwed.
Thanx guys, your words of wisdom are sorely needed

Tim
sorry if this question is a little longwinded, i think I talk too much!

[John Jarrold]

Straightforward stuff: double space, only use one side of the paper, don't bind it other than one elastic band for the entire typescript (do NOT paper clip each chapter separately, that really annoys editors and agents). Otherwise, contact agents before sending it out, see what they want. Many agents and publishers have submission guidelines on their websites, and some want one thing, some another - and some will accept e-mail submissions, while others want hard copy. Do your research. If you want an agent or publisher to deal with you professionally, extend them the same courtesy!

[roddglenn]

To add to John's good advice, also generally most agents and publishers prefer a 12 point easily readable font (Courier, Arial etc).

[Mandorin Anamor]

Cool. Thanks for the advice guys, i now have to head into town and track down the legendary "writers and artists yearbook" that everyone keeps talking about. thanks again.

[John Jarrold]

There should be a copy in your local central reference library...good luck!