How to Write a Pitch Letter in Email

When writing a query letter to an editor, sending the letter by email is a good option. Many editors prefer email queries, even if the submission guidelines for their magazine state otherwise. Email queries save paper, postage, and time. Many editors are more likely to respond to an e-mail, whether they accept or reject your article idea. Be sure that you make the same effort with an e-mail that you would with a letter. Email pitch letters should be formal and professional. Below are some tips for writing a pitch letter via email.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Give your email query a specific subject header. This is the first thing that an editor will see, so be sure that you specify that your email is a query. For example, if you are pitching an article about pregnancy and memory loss, the subject should look something like this: "QUERY: Pregnancy and Memory Loss."

2. Write the body of the email. The body of an email query is the same as a traditional pitch letter. The basic difference between the two is formatting. Do not use special formatting commands, such as underlining or italics. Double space between paragraphs or use bulleted paragraphs.

3. Let the editor know in the body of your email if you have clips or writing samples available. Do not attach clips to your email. If an editor wants to see samples of your work, he or she will request them. You can also set up a website with samples of your work and provide the URL in the letter.

4. Limit your email to a single, printed page. It is a good idea to write your letter in a word processing program and then copy and paste it into your email.

5. Use an appropriate signature. If you use a signature block, be sure that it is professional. Sign your pitch email with your full name. You can also include your phone number, home address, and URL, if you have a website.

Tips & Warnings

• Send yourself a copy of your pitch email. This is useful for your own records or if you have to resubmit the email.
• Use all caps or quotation marks for titles instead of underlining them.
• Do not send attachments without permission. Do not attach writing samples or clips to a query letter unless the editor requests it.
• Do not use emoticons or abbreviations.

Resources

• How to Write a Successful Query
• How to Write a Query Letter

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