What is a Query Letter?

A query letter is a formal proposal that a writer sends to a literary agent, editor, or publisher to introduce a manuscript or creative work. It serves as a first impression and can determine whether the recipient will consider your work further.

“A query letter is not just a pitch—it’s your handshake, your smile, and your best outfit all in one page.” —Anonymous Literary Agent

Structure of a Perfect Query Letter

A strong query letter is typically three to four paragraphs, no more than one page, and includes the following sections:

1. Salutation

Always address the recipient by name.

Example: Dear Ms. Johnson,
(Avoid generic greetings like “To Whom It May Concern.”)

2. Hook (Lead Paragraph)

Introduce your story with a compelling logline—a one-sentence summary that sparks curiosity.

"When a mute orphan discovers her voice can summon ghosts, she must choose between uncovering her past or saving her future in a haunted Victorian town."

3. Mini Synopsis (Middle Paragraph)

Provide a brief overview of the story, including:

  • Main character(s)

  • Conflict

  • Stakes

  • Setting

"Set in 1960s Lahore, my 85,000-word novel, 'The Color of Dust,' follows a teenage calligrapher caught between tradition and rebellion during a political uprising."

4. Author Bio

Highlight relevant credentials, including past publications, awards, or experience.

"I hold an M.Phil in English Literature and have been published in The Aleph Review and Kitaab."

5. Closing

End professionally with a polite call to action.

"Thank you for considering my work. I’d be happy to send the full manuscript upon request."

Submitting Your Work – Best Practices

✔️ Know the Market

Research agents, journals, or magazines that align with your genre. Useful platforms include:

✔️ Follow Submission Guidelines

Always check the recipient’s website for specific requirements. Some may request:

  • First 10 pages

  • Full manuscript

  • Synopsis + Query letter

Never send attachments unless explicitly asked.

✔️ Simultaneous Submissions

It is usually acceptable to submit to multiple agents or journals, but transparency is key.

“This is a simultaneous submission, and I will notify you promptly if it is accepted elsewhere.”

✔️ Track Your Submissions

Keep a log of where and when you submitted, along with responses. You can use:

  • Excel sheets

  • Notion

  • Submission tracking apps

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Mistake Why It’s a Problem
Sending unfinished work Agents want polished, edited manuscripts
Being overly casual or arrogant Query letters are professional communications
Ignoring genre/word count conventions Shows a lack of industry knowledge
Mass emailing without personalization Demonstrates laziness and lack of research

Examples of Strong and Weak Openings

Strong Hook Example:

"My thriller, 'Beneath the Minar,' begins when a journalist receives a phone call from a long-dead dissident, leading her into a web of espionage beneath old Delhi’s monuments."

Weak Hook Example:

"This is my story, and I think it’s really good. I hope you like it."

Final Tips

  • Write in a clear, confident, professional tone.

  • Edit and proofread your query letter multiple times.

  • Get feedback from mentors or peers.

  • Be patient—rejections are part of the process.