When it comes to tools in the writer’s toolbox, the query letter is a must.
I can always tell newby writers (or those who refuse to learn the tools of the trade), by their query letters. These letters are either chock full of the wrong information, or have barely any information at all.
I’ve even received queries that have no signature line. Now I know why Anonymous is so often credited with a piece of writing.
Think of your query like a sledge hammer in a game of high striker at the carnival. A weak query letter is like trying to ring the bell with a kid’s plastic hammer.
No matter how well written your book or article is, the strength of your query determines whether you capture the editor’s interest enough to ask for your manuscript.
Yes, as a newby freelance writer I wrote my share of terrible queries (I cringe when I think about them).
But I also I realized I knew nothing about writing a good magazine article or book, and nothing about the writing world. I didn’t have an English degree, and my professional writing career began as an advertising copywriter.
So I set out to learn all I needed to learn. And no, I haven’t mastered it all–far from it. I’m a lifelong learner, constantly seeking to learn and improve my skills. As a writer, you need to embrace that same attitude.
Basic Elements of the Query Letter
- Address your query to a specific editor
- Hook the editor in the first paragraph, then
- Give a further description of your project
- Include the word count
- Include information about why you are the right person to write the article or book
- Include your publication credits if you have them (if you don’t, then don’t mention it)
- Tell them if this is a simultaneous submission (you have submitted to other markets at the same time)
The purpose of your query determines the specific construction. Are you querying a potential literary agent, a book publisher, or magazine editor? You’ll tweak your letter accordingly.
There are whole books dedicated to writing queries. Grab one from the library and study it. The Writer’s Digest Writer’s Market Guide includes a “Query Letter Clinic.” It offers good and bad examples from which you can learn. Or do a Google search.
My point is if you expect to land a book contract or sell your articles, you need to learn to write a strong query.
Have a question? Put it in the comments below.