Writing a good query letter is probably more difficult for creative writers than writing the piece they are submitting for publication! What follows is an outline of how to format a query letter, what to include in each paragraph, and a list of things to avoid.
The Basics of a Query Letter
Your query letter should fit onto a single 8 ½ x 11 sheet of paper, no questions asked. It should be formatted as a business letter, that is, from the top of the page, all aligned to the left margin:
- Your address
- The address of the journal or magazine (with contact person’s name first)
- The date
- Salutation
- Paragraph 1
- Paragraph 2
- Paragraph 3
- Salutation
- Your name and signature
Make sure you use 12-point font in a legible, common font (sticking with Times New Roman is a good idea, as it’s a standard font).
Paragraph 1
The first paragraph of your query letter will be the shortest. In this paragraph, all you need to do is introduce your article or work with a title, the proposed word count of the piece, and the section of the journal or magazine for which it is appropriate (if applicable). You may format this paragraph as a question (“Would you be interested in an article entitled…?”) if you feel comfortable doing so.
Paragraph 2
The second paragraph is your opportunity to pitch your work, and will consequently be the longest paragraph in your query letter. Keep in mind, though, that “long” in this context means two to three sentences at most. In this paragraph, explain briefly what your piece is about. You may want to mention how you are tackling the subject, if applicable. You want to ignite a sense of intrigue and demonstrate the potential for your work to be new and exciting.
Paragraph 3
The final paragraph of your query letter should outline your credentials. Again, it will be a brief two to three sentences. If relevant, include a note on your educational or work-related experience, and mention any awards you have won, or previous publications. When it comes to publications, it won’t hurt to name names of the journals or magazines you have written for, especially if they are of a similar subject or share a readership with your prospective journal.
Things to Avoid in Your Query Letter
Most often, people make the mistake of going over the top in their query letters. Make sure that you keep your letter clear and concise, and also avoid the following:
- Becoming boastful
- Using fancy fonts or paper
- Telling the journal or magazine how great they are
- Other forms of flattery
- Assuring the journal or magazine that your work is unique and the only of its kind (chances are it’s not true, as much as you’d like to hope so)
- Putting deadlines on a response or offering ultimatums
If you still have questions about magazine or journal writing, there are a number of books available on the topic. Good luck with your future queries!
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