A query letter acts as a writer’s personal highlight reel. It opens the door for moving from the slush pile to the bookstore.
Query letters offer value on both sides of the publishing coin. Editors prefer reading query letters over unsolicited manuscripts because it takes less time. Writers can use query letters as a sales tool to highlight their idea, and show why they should be hired to write it, instead of sending complete manuscripts to multiple editors and publishers.
A query letter offers a snapshot of what a writer brings to the table. Editors can turn to query letters to find fully developed and coherent ideas. Query letters also determine if a writer is credible enough and skilled enough to bring an idea to life.
Well-written query letters include four key elements:
- Hook
- Pitch
- Body
- Credentials
The Hook opens your query letter. This first paragraph grabs an editor’s attention and persuades them to consider your submission.
Hooks can use various types of bait. One approach is to state a problem common to the publication’s audience and propose how your article or book can solve that problem. You can set up your idea in dramatic fashion to grab the editor’s attention and pique their curiosity. Relating a relevant anecdote or personal experience is also effective method for showing why your idea matters.
Choose a hook that will be most effective in convincing an editor to care about your idea. Avoid hooks that make a bid for sympathy, sing your praises or include irrelevant information. This will punch your ticket to the rejection pile.
The Pitch forms the second paragraph of your query letter. This is where you present your idea so an editor can get a better idea of what you’re proposing.
A pitch should contain a working title for your article or book. It should also include the word count and a brief summary of the content. Keep the summary simple. Highlight only the most important details to give an overview of your idea.
The Body is where you sell yourself as a writer to an editor. This is where you elaborate on the idea presented in the pitch.
Make the body no longer than four paragraphs and present an overview of what you will write. For nonfiction, touch on each subtopic you will cover. For Fiction, include every key character, theme and plot point from start to finish.
Editors want to know exactly how you will flesh out your idea. The body of your query letter offers them a working outline of what you plan to do.
The Credentials form your query letter’s final paragraph. This is where you show an editor why you are most qualified to write the idea you proposed.
Professional writing credits are not mandatory for establishing credentials. You can highlight relevant professional experience and academic degrees or certifications. If you are a published author, mention past books and articles you have written. This will enhance your credibility as an author.