How to Write a Query Letter for a Novel

Getting Your Novel Published

Many people find that writing a query letter can be harder than writing the actual novel. If you want a literary agent to take notice, the letter must catch their attention and leave them wanting to read the rest.


While you want the letter to grab an agent's attention, there are a few things to steer clear from (Check the warnings at the end of the article).

A query letter is made up of three parts: the hook, a mini-synopsis, and your author biography.

Things You'll Need

• a complete manuscript
• a list of literary agents

Instructions

1. The Hook:

   This is the first paragraph of the query letter and should be one sentence describing your book the best that you can. Make it catchy.

2. The Mini-Synopsis:

   This is the second paragraph of the query letter and if you're unfamiliar with how to construct it, read the back of one of your favorite books and see how the author formulated the synopsis.

3. Author Biography:

   This paragraph should be brief and focus on your personal achievements as a writer, such as your education and previously published work and/or accomplishments. If you don't have any previous experience, don't say that, just let your work speak for you. The less you have to say in this part, the better.

4. Be sure to include your novel's word count and something about why you chose to submit to the literary agent you send it to.

5. Make your query letter as formal as possible. If you're sending via email, format the subject line as follows: QUERY: TITLE OF MANUSCRIPT. Make sure it is in all capitals. Address the agent in this manner: "Attn. Mr. Agent:" and end the letter with something like, "Regards, Your Name"

Tips & Warnings

• always remember to submit a completed, revised, and edited manuscript to a literary agent (edit it to the best of your ability)

• make sure you do your research on each agent you submit to

• when sending via snail mail, always include a SASE (self-addressed stamped envelope)

• research each agent you submit to and make sure to note what they require in a query letter

• avoid being overly-friendly in your query letter

• do not start off with "Dear Mr. Agent"

• do not add sample chapters to your query letter unless the agent you're sending it to requires it

Resources

• Visit Agent Query for All Your Resources