How to Write a Novel Proposal
The next great American novel sits on your desk in manuscript form. Free from errors and formatted perfectly it awaits its journey to the publishing world. The only thing left to do is the proposal, that condensed synopsis of your book and biography that is essentially a plea for publication of your masterpiece. Sounds difficult and nerve wracking but the following guidelines are a glimpse into an editors head--what they are looking for and what to expect.
Other People Are Reading
Instructions
-
-
1
Research publishers that produce the type of genre in which your title fits. View their website for submission guidelines and a list of recently published books. Familiarize yourself with the publishers so that your research reflects in the proposal.
-
2
Format the proposal as a full block business letter. The entire proposal will be left aligned, no indented paragraphs. Include your name, address, email, phone number and website. Address the editor by "Mr." or "Ms." followed by surname. If you are unable to distinguish from the name the proper title, write the editors full name. Use 10 to 12 font size and Times New Roman font style.
-
-
3
Begin with a lead that hooks the editor into wanting to read more. This could be a synopsis of your book but make it short. Write it as if it would appear on the back cover.
-
4
Give a word count and the genre the title fits into. Mention similar titles that the publisher has on the market and how your title fits in with them.
-
5
Write a biography that explains your previously published work and credentials that qualify you to write your type of book.
-
6
End by thanking the editor for their time and consideration.
-
1
Tips & Warnings
Before writing a proposal, finish your novel in its entirety. Most publishers require sample chapters with the proposal or the entire manuscript. The submission guidelines for the publisher will give the proper instruction of what to attach along with the proposal. Include a self addressed stamped envelope (SASE) or postcard for response.
Do not discuss pay rates--this is done after a proposal is accepted. Do not mention any past rejections of the manuscript. Keep the proposal one page in length. Editors receive thousands of proposals and manuscripts and it may discourage them from reading a proposal that is more than one page.
