What is the format for a query letter?
Format your query letter like a formal letter, using a traditional 11- or 12-point font (Courier or Times New Roman), single space paragraphs, and double space between each paragraph. Include the date, your name, address, phone number, and email.
How do you address an email query?
Make sure you use a colon after the agents name, not a comma, since query letters are business letters. And specify the agent’s gender by using “Mr.” or “Ms.” Stick with the more formal “Dear” …instead of something more casual like “Hi,” “Hey,” “Hello,” “Yo,” “Dude,” or “What’s Up!” (yes, I’ve seen it all).
How do you write a formal query letter?
When Writing a Query Letter Do …
- Address the agent by name.
- Cut right to the chase.
- Sell your manuscript.
- Explain why you’ve chosen to query this specific agent.
- Mention your platform (if you have one).
- Study other successful query letters.
- Be arrogant.
- Include your age.
How many paragraphs should a query letter be?
Keep the body of your query letter from three to five paragraphs.
How long should a query letter be?
1-2 pages
Although literary agents don’t agree on many things when it comes to query letters, the best query letter length is something that all book agents DO agree on. The best query letter length is 1-2 pages, single-spaced, Time New Roman font, 12-point. No exceptions. strongly prefer one page.
How do you write a query?
How to write an effective query letter
- Step 1: Capture the agent’s attention with your greeting.
- Step 2: Craft an irresistible hook.
- Step 3: Write a tantalizing synopsis.
- Step 4: Reveal your credentials and your publishing savvy.
- Step 5: Personalize the letter for each agent.
- Step 6: Proofread everything you’ve written.
How do you answer a query letter?
When writing the response, you can refer to the query date and then acknowledging your misconduct. Go straight to the point. Do not add unnecessary information to the query response and also assure whoever you are responding to that you will not repeat that conduct again.
How do you write a query letter with no credentials?
If you have no professional credentials, no research to mention, no awards to your name—nothing notable at all to share—don’t apologize for it. Perhaps say something brief about yourself—where you live, your education, your day job, hobbies. Remember: Even if you’re unpublished, you’re still completely respectable.
How long should a query pitch be?
How Long Should a Query Pitch be? Shoot to keep your your pitch section between 150-250 words. Your pitch section (also known as the story summary or book blurb) is the most important and meatiest section of your query letter.
Can a query letter be 500 words?
The ideal length of a query letter is 1 standard printed page (8.5 X 11) or less. That is, a maximum of 500 words, single-spaced. The average length of a successful query letter typically falls into the 250-300 word range. Shorter is almost always better.