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Essentials for writing a query
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Writers are required to write
query letters before sending a manuscript to a publisher. When the editor is
interested she will inform the writer that she can write the feature or to
submit the full story on speculation. The query letter has two goals, getting
the writer from unsolicited to solicited status and the writer doesn’t have to
write the story until it is requested. The query letter is single spaced with
no indentions, and should encourage the editor to send for the full manuscript.
It shows that you are a professional and able to focus on tight writing.
Difficulty:
Things You’ll Need
Story idea
Computer
White paper
Step 1
Write the editors name and
address in the upper left hand corner of the letter. Drop down two lines where you will write a
subject line followed by a colon. Write the name of the story.
Step 2
Start the first paragraph by
writing the lead. Make the lead very interesting by pulling the reader into
story. Drop down a double space before beginning the second paragraph.
Step 3
Start the second paragraph
informing the editor about the idea. Narrow down your topic. When you write the
query letter you are going to make it interesting and the advantage is that you
are going to do a small amount of research for the query. State what the research is and how you will
use it in the story. If you were to do the whole manuscript you would have a lot
of research, but with the query your research minimum.
Drop down two lines for the next paragraph.
Step 4
Start the next paragraph
with an encouragement, for example, “My article will fit nicely with your Money
Report section.” This helps the editor
visualize where and how it could best fit in with the magazine. Tell the editor how you are qualified to
write the article. If you are an
entrepreneur mention that in the query if you are trying to write for a
business magazine. Write about your previous publications, but if you have
never been published before, say nothing.
Step 5
Drop down two lines. Write
respectfully or sincerely, and print your name and title. Enclose a self addressed stamped envelope
(SASE).
Tips
Proofread the letter making
sure that it is free of typos, and make sure that you have checked the spelling
of the editor’s name.
Reference
How to Write Attention
Grabbing Query & Cover Letters; John Wood; Writer’s Digest
