A big part of securing an agent is writing a killer query letter. Most writers dread this part, but unfortunately if you ever want agents to read your work you do need to get a handle on the dreaded query letter. In most cases it’s your first (and sometimes only) impression, and like all first impressions you need to make it count.

The focus of the query letter is on the specific project you are pitching, not you, your writing history, your hobbies, where you live, or any other irrelevant factoids. If you are a nonfiction author submitting a book proposal the story is different, but the query letter is primarily used for fiction and when it comes to fiction it’s the story that matters most.

A query letter typically follows this format:

Paragraph One

This is a brief introduction usually 1-2 sentences long. For example “I would like to introduce you to the Urban Fantasy Vamps, which was a finalist in such and such writing contest.” Some agents like to know why you chose them. If it’s a compelling reason, include it here by saying something like “I contacted you because you represent my favorite author James Smith” or “I really enjoyed your article in Writer’s Digest.”

Paragraph 2

This paragraph is all about the book and can run 2-5 sentences. You want to highlight the main character(s), the core conflict, and the protagonist. If it’s a character driven story you want to include a key defining trait. If it’s plot driven you’ll want to include key plot twists. They also should be written in the present tense (it has more impact than past tense). Here are a couple of hastily written examples for books that don’t exist (so don’t judge me!):

Character Focused

In the romantic comedy What About Stan, neurotic novelist Stan Stanovich must overcome his fear of intimacy in order to win over the woman he loves. His OCD and tendency to say the wrong thing at the wrong time continually gets in the way, but determined he learns to cope and manages to earn her hand in marriage.

Plot Focused

In the thriller Ticking Time Bomb, CIA Agent Jack Smooth must locate rogue agent Slick Willie before he sells a dirty bomb on the black market.  Before Smooth reaches Slick Willie, the rogue agent frames him for a terrorist attack in Lisbon. Now with Interpol hot on his trail, Smooth must stop the crazed agent and clear his name.

Paragraph 3

Here is where you put a brief and focused bio. Again, the focus should be on your project, not on you, so do keep it to 2-4 lines maximum. Include any relevant facts, experience, and publishing credits that demonstrate your talent and platform building efforts. Here is an example:

I am a freelance writer and editor. My works have been featured in Magazine A and Magazine B. I also teach workshops on how to write for magazines.

No mention of your long list of hobbies or the fact that you’ve been writing since you were 8. Also don’t mention that you have 10 novels stored in a drawer and that you play Dungeons and Dragons on the weekends.

Close with a professional salutation and Voila you are done!

Here is an example of a full query:

Dear Mr. Agent

I was referred to you by one of your clients Author Joe who I met at the Writer’s Conference. He thought you might be interested in my manuscript.

In the thriller Ticking Time Bomb, CIA Agent Jack Smooth must locate rogue agent Slick Willie before he sells a dirty bomb on the black market.  Before Smooth reaches Slick Willie, the rogue agent frames him for a terrorist attack in Lisbon. Now with Interpol hot on his trail, Smooth must stop the crazed agent and clear his name.

I am a freelance writer and editor. My works have been featured in Magazine A and Magazine B. I also teach workshops on how to write for magazines.

Thank you for your time and consideration. I look forward to your response.

Sincerely,

Author

Here are a few other considerations:

1. Always, always, always follow the agent’s personal guidelines. Each agent has their own quirks and wants. Follow them, otherwise you can just reject yourself.
2. Personalize each query. Don’t mass send emails. If you cut and paste names or send them all as “Dear Agent” they will know and often will auto-delete.
3. Be polite! Publishing is a small community. You don’t want to burn any bridges before you’ve even begun.

Above all, don’t stress and keep it simple. The query letter is a teaser not a masterpiece. It’s supposed to make them want more, not substitute for the book. If you’re not sure, solicit feedback from fellow writers.

There are also a few resources to help you with your query letters. Writer’s Digest is great. In addition to the magazine they also have several books, links to other sites, and workshops to help you craft your letter. Also check out Query Tracker. In addition to providing tips you can actually track all of your queries in one place (so you don’t submit twice to the same agent).