As you finish up your manuscript, the next step is often shopping it around to potential publishers. While this can be a daunting and time-consuming task, it doesn’t have to be a particularly difficult one. The key to submitting manuscripts often comes down to polishing a professional query letter that manages to get an agent’s attention.

What is a query letter?
A query letter is a one-page sales pitch that you submit to either an editor or a literary agent with the aim of enticing them to publish or represent your book. Publishers often get hundreds, if not thousands, of manuscript submissions a day, so it’s vital that this letter is both concise and eye-catching (easier said than done, I know!).

The importance of a query letter
So why is a query letter so important? It’s the one and only point of contact you get with a publisher or agent, and the jumping-off point for them to follow up—when they will likely ask you for a chapter-by-chapter synopsis, more sample pages, or even the complete manuscript. Just like a stellar cover letter can make you stand out when applying for a job (or, alternatively, a poor one can get a résumé automatically sent to the rubbish pile), a really compelling query letter can attract the kind of marketable interest that leads to an offer.

The format of a query letter
If submitting digitally, which most publishers and literary agents prefer, include “QUERY: [Your title] [Word count and genre]” in the subject line—unless, of course, the agency to which you’re sending it specifies otherwise. After a formal and personalized introduction, explain that you are seeking representation for your [genre and book title]. Then include one sentence explaining why you chose this particular agent. Did you really enjoy a different book they represented or published that reminds you of your own manuscript? Did you see them speak at a literary conference?

The next paragraph includes the hook, which is a one- or two-sentence blurb designed to intrigue the editor or agent. (Think of the single-line tag on a book cover that makes you want to flip it over and read the synopsis on the back.) After that is a 200–250-word partial summary of the book, keeping in mind that you don’t want to give everything away—wordiness is your enemy in this instance!

Keep it brief by introducing your main character and the central conflict of the story, but avoid going into detail or walking the reader through to the very end of the plot. Remember, this is a teaser, not a synopsis. This sort-of summary can be split into two paragraphs if it logistically makes sense, but do not go over 250 words—brevity is key!

The paragraph after that contains the nitty-gritty details of your manuscript. In other words, the title (again), the word count, and comparable titles. When choosing comparable titles, be sure they match your book in both genre and style. You can write that your book is “perfect for fans of [comparable title 1] and [comparable title 2]” or “in the vein of [comparable title 1] and [comparable title 2].” This gives the agent or editor a clearer idea of what they’re getting into. Then segue into the fact that you have attached the appropriate material—many agencies will request, say, the first twenty-five pages of the manuscript—and that the full manuscript is available upon request.

The final paragraph should include your author biography. This does not mean you should mention personal details like where you live or particular hobbies. Keep it professional and relevant. What have you done in your life that makes you uniquely qualified to write the book that you have? Lastly, thank the reader for their time and close it out with a professional signature. Be sure to include your email address underneath your name.

A necessary process
While there are never any guarantees when sending out query letters, following this structure (and keeping it one page!) can help you stand out from the crowd. Just remember that rejection is an unfortunately necessary part of becoming a writer, so don’t give up! This part of the publishing journey takes a lot of time and research—and you thought writing the book was the biggest hurdle!

Andrea Moran lives outside of Nashville with her husband and two kids. She’s a professional copywriter and editor who loves all things books. Find her on LinkedIn.