How to Write a Query Letter: A query letter is a crucial tool for writers seeking representation or publication. Whether you’re pitching a novel, article, or screenplay, a well-crafted query letter can make the difference between capturing an agent or editor’s attention and receiving a rejection. Here’s a comprehensive guide on how to write an effective query letter that gets results.
Also See: Thank You Letter to Sponsor for Sponsorship – 5 Free Templates
How to Write a Query Letter?
- Research Your Target:
Before you start writing, research your target agents or editors. Understand their preferences, genres they represent, and submission guidelines. This demonstrates your professionalism and tailored approach.
- Start with a Strong Hook:
Begin with a concise and engaging hook that immediately captures the reader’s interest. It could be a compelling question, a thought-provoking statement, or a brief summary of your work’s unique premise.
- Introduce Your Work:
In the opening paragraph, introduce your project’s title, genre, and word count. Provide a concise and captivating summary of your work, highlighting its central theme, main characters, and the conflict they face.
- Highlight Your Credentials:
If you have relevant writing credentials, such as previous publications or writing awards, mention them briefly. This helps establish your credibility and shows that you are a serious and experienced writer.
- Personalize Your Pitch:
Demonstrate that you’ve done your homework by explaining why you’re approaching this particular agent or editor. Mention specific works they’ve represented that align with your project or any recent interviews or blog posts they’ve shared.
- Showcase Market Potential:
Explain who your target audience is and why your work would appeal to them. Mention any trends in the market that your project aligns with, demonstrating that you’ve considered its commercial viability.
- Provide a Brief Synopsis:
Offer a concise synopsis of your work’s main plot points. Focus on the central conflict, the protagonist’s journey, and the stakes involved. Keep it engaging while avoiding spoilers.
- Include a Bio Paragraph:
Share a brief paragraph about yourself, mentioning relevant writing experience, education, or any personal connections to the story that might add depth to your pitch.
- Mention Manuscript Availability:
If your project is complete, mention that your manuscript is available for review upon request. If it’s a novel, ensure it’s fully edited and polished before querying.
- Conclude with a Call to Action:
End your query letter with a strong call to action. Invite the agent or editor to request a partial or full manuscript, or to contact you for more information.
- Proofread Thoroughly:
Before hitting send, proofread your query letter meticulously. Typos and errors can undermine your professionalism and detract from the content of your pitch.
Also See: Thank You Letter to Business Partner for Collaboration – 5 Best Templates
Sample 1: Query Letter Template
This is the sample letter format of query letter template:
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[City, State, ZIP Code]
[Email Address]
[Phone Number]
[Date]
[Agent’s/Editor’s Name]
[Agency/Publishing House Name]
[Address]
[City, State, ZIP Code]
Subject: Query for [Title of Your Work]
Dear [Agent’s/Editor’s Name],
I am writing to query my [genre] work, [Title of Your Work], complete at [Word Count]. [Craft a strong hook here.]
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Sample 2: Query Letter Format
Another sample letter format of query letter format:
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[City, State, ZIP Code]
[Email Address]
[Phone Number]
[Date]
[Agent’s/Editor’s Name]
[Agency/Publishing House Name]
[Address]
[City, State, ZIP Code]
Subject: Query for [Title of Your Work]
Dear [Agent’s/Editor’s Name],
I am excited to introduce my [genre] work, [Title of Your Work], complete at [Word Count]. [Hook]. [Introduction of your work and its theme, characters, conflict.] [Credentials and relevant background.] [Explanation of market potential and target audience.]
Thank you for considering my work. I look forward to the opportunity to work with you.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Sample 3: How to Write a Query Letter
Here is the sample letter format of how to write a query letter:
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[City, State, ZIP Code]
[Email Address]
[Phone Number]
[Date]
[Agent’s/Editor’s Name]
[Agency/Publishing House Name]
[Address]
[City, State, ZIP Code]
Subject: Query for [Title of Your Work]
Dear [Agent’s/Editor’s Name],
I hope this letter finds you well. I am writing to query my [genre] work, [Title of Your Work], complete at [Word Count]. [Craft a strong hook here.]
[Briefly introduce your work, its central theme, main characters, and conflict.]
[Highlight your credentials, if applicable.]
I am impressed by your representation of [mention specific works they’ve represented]. Given your interest in [related themes or genres], I believe my work would resonate with your portfolio.
[Explain why your work has market potential and mention your target audience.]
In [Title of Your Work], [Briefly summarize your plot.]
[Share a bit about yourself and your writing experience.]
My manuscript is complete and available for review at your request. I would be delighted to provide further materials or answer any questions you may have.
Thank you for considering my work. I look forward to the opportunity to work with you.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Sample 4: Query Letter for Book Proposal
Given one is the sample letter format of query letter for book proposal:
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[City, State, ZIP Code]
[Email Address]
[Phone Number]
[Date]
[Agent’s/Editor’s Name]
[Agency/Publishing House Name]
[Address]
[City, State, ZIP Code]
Subject: Query for [Title of Your Book Proposal]
Dear [Agent’s/Editor’s Name],
I hope this letter finds you well. I am excited to introduce my non-fiction book proposal, [Title of Your Book Proposal], complete at approximately [Word Count] words. Having researched your interest in compelling narratives that explore [mention relevant themes], I am confident my work aligns with your expertise.
[Start with a Hook]
In the age of [mention relevant trends or events], [Title of Your Book Proposal] delves into the untold stories of [briefly explain your book’s focus]. Through extensive research and interviews, this book sheds light on [highlight the unique angle or perspective your book offers].
[Introduce Your Book Proposal]
[Title of Your Book Proposal] comprises [number of chapters] chapters that uncover the [mention main aspects explored in your book]. The narrative is woven with [mention any engaging elements such as personal anecdotes, historical references, or expert insights] to captivate readers.
[Your Credentials]
As a [mention your qualifications, relevant experience, or expertise], I am uniquely positioned to craft this narrative. My previous work has been featured in [mention notable publications or platforms], which attests to my ability to tackle complex subjects effectively.
[Market Potential]
Given the rising interest in [mention relevant trends or societal issues], [Title of Your Book Proposal] appeals to a broad audience. The book’s exploration of [mention themes] makes it particularly relevant to readers seeking [mention benefits for readers].
[Brief Synopsis]
In the pages of [Title of Your Book Proposal], readers will follow [briefly summarize the book’s content, highlighting key points and notable insights].
[Personal Touch]
As a reader of [mention any works the agent/editor has represented or any relevant connections], I am confident that [Title of Your Book Proposal] would be a valuable addition to your list.
[Call to Action]
I invite you to explore the attached proposal for [Title of Your Book Proposal]. If it aligns with your vision, I would be honored to discuss the project further or provide any additional materials you may require.
Thank you for considering my work. I appreciate your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
[Attachments: Book Proposal, Sample Chapters, Author Bio, Contact Information]
Email Sample: How to Write a Query Letter
Below one is the sample email format of how to write a query letter:
Subject: Query for [Title of Your Work]
Dear [Agent’s/Editor’s Name],
I hope this email finds you well. I am excited to introduce my [genre] work, [Title of Your Work], complete at [Word Count]. Having researched your interest in [mention their preferences], I believe my work would resonate with your expertise.
In a world where [briefly touch on a relevant trend or issue], my book delves into [briefly explain your book’s focus]. Through [mention any unique approach or research], this book offers fresh insights into [highlight the main theme or angle].
[Provide a brief overview of your book’s contents, including its structure and key points.]
My background as [mention your qualifications and credentials] uniquely positions me to tackle this subject. I have previously been published in [mention notable publications or platforms], which reflects my dedication to impactful storytelling.
Given the current interest in [mention market trends], I am confident that [Title of Your Work] would captivate readers seeking [mention benefits for readers]. It would make a valuable addition to your list of [mention relevant works they’ve represented].
I have attached the complete query letter and the book proposal for your consideration. If you find the concept intriguing, I would be thrilled to discuss the project further or provide any additional materials you may require.
Thank you for your time and consideration. I look forward to the opportunity to collaborate.
Best regards,
[Your Name]
[Your Contact Information]
Also Check: Thank You Letter to Client for Referral – 4 Free Samples
A well-crafted query letter is your foot in the door of the publishing world. By following these steps and tailoring your pitch to your target agent or editor, you increase your chances of capturing their interest and securing the representation or publication you’re seeking. Remember, persistence and professionalism are key as you navigate the world of querying. Follow Twitter page for more letters.
How to Write a Query Letter?
To write a query letter, craft a concise introduction of your work, including its genre, title, and word count. Highlight your writing credentials and mention why you’re querying the specific recipient. Provide a brief synopsis, showcase market potential, and end with a call to action. Keep it around 250-400 words.
What is a query letter?
A query letter is a formal letter sent to literary agents, editors, or publishers to introduce your manuscript, book proposal, or writing project with the goal of securing representation or publication.
How long should a query letter be?
A query letter should be concise, typically one page in length. Aim for around 250-400 words.
What should I include in a query letter?
A query letter should include an engaging hook, a brief introduction of your work, a synopsis, your writing credentials, market potential, and a call to action.
How do I address the recipient of the query letter?
Use the agent’s or editor’s name whenever possible. If unsure, “Dear [Agent’s/Editor’s Name]” is a safe choice.
How should I end a query letter?
End with a strong call to action, inviting the agent or editor to request more material or to contact you for further discussion.