Lesson 2: Writing Query Letters
How do you Structure a Query Letter?
The purpose of a query letter is to interest the editor in your article, convincing him or her that it would provide excellent copy for the magazine. It should be attractive, attention-grabbing, well-written and, needless to say, free from any grammatical or spelling errors.
Query letters should usually only be one page long, although the example given in The Complete Idiot’s Guide to Freelance Writing and some of the queries in Michael Perry’s excellent chapter are longer. At the beginning, however, it is suggested that one page is enough.
A one-page query letter should have three to four paragraphs. The first paragraph is usually designed to catch the eye of the editor. A boring beginning is not a good idea. Grab his or her attention by an interesting statistic, a quotation, or perhaps a startling fact. In Query Letter 6, for example, of Michael Perry’s examples, he captures the editor’s attention with this sentence: “Do you remember where you were the day Big Boy died?”1. This sentence, with the substitution of Princess Diana for Big Boy, could be used for a query letter concerning an article about her. He has grabbed attention by jolting the editor’s memory. Personalizing the article idea is also a good technique.
In the sample query letter in The Complete Idiot’s Guide to Freelance Writing, the writer uses a mutual connection to obtain the editor’s attention.2. This is a very good idea if it can be managed because it establishes credibility.
Apparently not all editors like an eye-catching opening, however. According to Michael Perry, some are tired of this technique and would prefer a clear, direct and straightforward opening saying why the article would interest the readers. “One thing is certain…skip the small talk and get right to the point”.3.
In one sample query letter in Perry’s book he opens by flattering the magazine, showing that he knows the publication and the type of articles it contains. This is also a good way to open a query letter.
The second and possibly third paragraphs should summarize the theme of the article and the angle of the article clearly and succinctly. They should also tell the editor why the article is suitable for his or her magazine. Interesting facts and interview subjects should be included here. Michael Perry favours bulleted lists on occasion, especially if the magazine’s articles contain them. They can provide clear and direct summaries. Make sure all of your facts are correct before sending your query letter, however. If an editor notices a slip he is unlikely to give you an assignment.
The last paragraph should sum up why you think you are qualified to write the article. Here you can mention any relevant educational qualifications or specialist knowledge, and whether you have had work published before. It is a good idea to include a clip or two especially if you have had previous articles published on similar subjects.
End your letter in a polite manner. Michael Perry’s sentence: “I thank you for your time and consideration and look forward to your reply” is a lovely and sincere ending, which most editors would like.
How to submit your Query Letter
Query letters should be professional. Don’t use unusual stationery or fancy paper, such as coloured or gold leaf or paper with pretty designs. Use plain, white stationery. Fancy signatures also look unprofessional. The query letter itself, should convince the editor that you can write the article. Always include a SSAE so that the editor can reply.
Check carefully for any grammatical or spelling mistakes before sending your letter. Also always address the letter to the editor.
In many cases you can submit query letters by email, but the same procedure applies for the format.
1. Perry, Michael. Handbook for Freelance Writing. NTC Business Books. Chicago, Illinois, USA, p.100
2.Bykofsky, Sheree, Sander, Jennifer and Rominger, Lynne, The Complete Idiot's Guide to Publishing Magazine Articles, Alpha Books, Macmillan, USA, 2000, p. 93
3.Perry, Michael. Ibid.,p.93
