How to Write a Cover Letter for an Essay Journal Submission

Write a strong cover letter to accompany your essay submission to a journal

Writing a good essay for publication consideration at a journal requires an equally strong cover letter to accompany your submission. Whether the essay is for a contest, an internship application or just for publication and pay, the editor will often only consider reading your essay if your cover letter shows promise. While there is a general cover letter format you can follow, be sure to check with the journal's specific submission requirements and make sure you follow any special requests they have regarding your cover letter.

Instructions

1. Start a new Word document and create a header, centered at the top of the page, with your name, address, phone number and email address, all single spaced.

2. Double space down and set the text to left-justified. Type the name and job title of the recipient (for example, Gordon Black, Editor-in-Chief), followed by the name of the journal, single spaced.

3. Double space and type a formal greeting addressing the recipient by name (e.g. "Dear Mr. Black").

4. Double space and type an introduction paragraph of about two to three sentences. Introduce yourself and explain what your essay is about and why you are submitting it to this journal specifically. While you want to catch the editor's attention, do not resort to gimmicks or cliche language. Clear, professional writing will impress more than a sensationalist approach. For most scholarly journals, you should indicate here that your submission is exclusive (i.e. not published or under consideration at another journal).

5. Write the body of your cover letter, providing a succinct overview of the content of your essay. Try to make a connection by showing the editor why your essay should be considered, either by relating it to another series or essay the journal has published, or stating other reasons you chose this journal for your submission. If the essay is a non-fiction work based on your own personal experiences, this is your chance to impress the editor with that experience and show your expertise in the field. If a scholarship or prize is a possibility, mention what plans you have for the money.

6. Write the conclusion of your cover letter, about two to three sentences. Thank the editor for considering your essay and for his time. Type a formal closing such as "Sincerely," followed by your name double spaced below the last paragraph. If you are mailing the letter, sign your name as well.

Tips & Warnings

• If you are submitting your essay to multiple journals, personalize each cover letter, both by changing the name to that of the specific editor and by adjusting the body of your cover letter. Editors appreciate knowing why you believe your essay is the best fit for them, rather than seeing that you sent your essay to dozens of journals.

References

• WebGuru: Submit Article to Journal

Resources

• Trinity College: Write a Cover Letter