In the first two posts of this series, I hounded folks about the importance of getting all the pieces of the puzzle in place for the all important query letter.  This third and final chapter of the query letter story will discuss the outline of the letter itself.

Now that you’re ready to go, let’s look at the elements of a successful query letter.

First Line:  Today’s date

4 hard returns and then,

Editor Name, Title

Publication Name

Publication Address

Dear: Unless you are certain of gender, use the full name

First Paragraph:

If you’re going to sweat over any of the paragraphs in your query letter, it better be in this paragraph.  This is the hook.  This is the paragraph where you capture the interest of the editor and demonstrate a little of your writing style.  Think of it as an excerpt of your article that contains the essence of the whole piece.  It does NOT have to be pulled directly from your article but it should have the flavor.  Remember that it is a hook, so make it sticky.  Make it so lively and interesting that someone would HAVE to continue reading the rest of the letter.  As if that’s not challenging enough, try and keep it down to two – four, short – medium sentences.

Second Paragraph:

Tell the editor what this article is about.  Make certain that this is written from an angle that demonstrates you have read the submission guidelines and you are familiar with the publication and the readership.  Brevity is important here.  Remember you want to give a taste, not set up a buffett.

Third Paragraph:

Describe where and how you believe this article may fit in the publication.  If you believe it fits in a particular section, outline why you believe so.  This demonstrates again that you have done your home work and are familiar with the publication.  Use this paragraph to put forth the anticipated word count and any ideas for possible side-bars.  If you have photographs, let the editor know that in this paragraph.

Fourth Paragraph:

Yay me paragraph.  Describe previous publications that have accepted your work.  If you don’t have any clips then that’s ok. Don’t dwell on it, don’t plead and don’t beg.  C’mon.  Get off of your knees and stand proud.  This query letter speaks for itself and gives the editor a fine feel for your capabilities.

Closing:  Short and sweet.  Thanks for your time and consideration, I look forward to hearing from you.

Sincerely, Best, Regards – Whatever you like.

Your name

Address

Phone number

email address

That’s all there is to it.  I know there are a lot of ways to skin this cat, but this format has garnered a positive response each time I’ve used it.

I hope you enjoyed this series.  Query letters are very important and it’s important that you understand the concepts presented here.  If you have any thoughts about what you think makes a great query, then comment and let’s start a discussion.