Query Letter

The query letter is arguably the most important piece of writing you will ever do. It is the first, often the only representation of your work that a publishing-world professional will see. If it grabs the reader, it might open the door to further consideration. If not, it will go into the “circular file.” Its importance cannot be exaggerated. Therefore, it must be written with great care.

First, a few formatting rules. Like any business letter, this one is single spaced. It must be no longer than one page. And it is written in the first person. It should not exceed 500 words.

Your first paragraph should be short and succinct. Begin with an attention-grabbing sentence just like you opened your manuscript with a narrative hook. Take another sentence, two at the most, to expand on the opening. Then write a transitional sentence that includes the number of words in the manuscript, its genre, and its title in italics or capital letters.

The next two to three paragraphs expand on your synopsis to tell an encapsulated version of the book. You introduce your protagonist and whatever circumstances are pivotal to the story. Another paragraph sets up the central conflict. Another summarizes the action that will lead up to the climax and denouement but does not give those away. Use concise narrative, each paragraph containing anywhere from three to six sentences of varying length and complexity.

Your next paragraph tells something about yourself. If you have any writing credits or experience that enhances your credentials, this is the place to list them. If you are a beginner and have nothing significant to say in this regard, leave this out.

The final paragraph states what, if anything, is being included with the letter. In earlier times, queries were sent by mail and needed to include a SASE (self-addressed stamped envelope) so the submitter could receive a response. In today’s world, most of these are sent online. If so, you would state the inclusion of any sample pages the agent requested. If there are none, you simply want to express your gratitude for the reader's consideration.

When you have completed your synopsis and query letter, you are ready to market your manuscript.

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