In order to get writing jobs, especially if you want to write non-fiction articles or books, you need to be able to write a formal query letter. The purpose of a query letter is to pitch your idea to an editor. The great thing about querying is that you can get your research done and be prepared to write your piece, but you don’t actually have to write it until you get the go-ahead from an editor. Here are some tips on writing a query, making it stand out, and avoiding some of the many pitfalls that will send your letter to the slush pile.

Do Your Homework

A good idea falls flat if you don’t have the research to back it up. Here are a few hints on how to gather the information you will need in order to write a good query.

• Follow the editor’s guidelines. If you don’t have a copy of the guidelines, check online first. If you still can’t find them, write to the editor asking for a copy, and include a self addressed, stamped envelope (SASE).
• Check the editor’s preference. Do they actually want a query letter, or would they rather see a finished product? Do they prefer email or regular mail submissions? Will they mind if your email has an attachment?
• Read several current copies of the publication before submitting (check the library to get copies). Write your query in the style of the publication. Know what section of the publication your article could fall into.
• Get your research done, or at least started. This way you can include specifics on your topic in your letter, and you’ll have a better idea of the length your article might be.