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Questions about Queries Answered
by Shaunna Privratsky

Why do some writers quail when queries are mentioned? Perhaps it is because we fear what we don't fully understand. I aim to clear up the mysteries of queries and speed you on the published path of success.

I thought I'd mastered queries until I realized my bare bones, just-the-facts, ma'am approach to queries was like throwing out a bait-less hook. Once I concentrated on crafting a quality query by using the following suggestions, my acceptance ratio went from 2/10 to 7/10. On two occasions editors couldn't use my initial idea but requested a different idea.

Research is the major ingredient in a quality query. The more familiar you are with the magazine or market, the better query you'll be able to write. Study a current issue or the online version to discover the tone and style. The ads are a great clue to the readers. Access the archives to see if your intended topic has been covered recently. Even a great query will be turned down if it is too similar to a previous article.

Don't spend a fortune on magazine subscriptions. Most magazines offer a sample issue for a couple of dollars or you can peruse a multitude of magazines at the public library for free.

Read the writer's guidelines carefully. Follow the format stated. Always include contact information and a SASE for a reply. Stay within the word limits! Editors won't work with writers who don't follow the rules.

Next, pinpoint the editor who supervises the topic of your article or story. Taking the trouble to find the right editor can pay off in a big way.

Your query letter should be focused. A story about cats is so broad you'll have a hard time selling it. One about the unique characteristics of purebred Siamese cats, sent to the right market, is much more likely to earn you a "yes."

Your first paragraph is the bait. Make it as enticing and juicy as possible. This often becomes the lead paragraph in your article. Ask a probing question, state a surprising statistic or tell an amusing antidote. Back it up with facts and show how it impacts the magazine's readers.

The second paragraph show's how you'll present the material. Make sure you state the estimated word count, working title and slant or tone. Include an outline if your idea is too involved to cover in a single paragraph. Editors are impressed by extra effort and can see at a glance the direction your article will take.

The third paragraph is your pedigree. Show why you're qualified but never come off as arrogant. List any publishing credits you have, especially those pertinent to the assignment you are seeking. Also mention any special training or experience that relates to the topic.

On the other hand, never reveal your lack of published credits. Present your letter in a professional manner and the editor will assume you have experience.

The fourth and final paragraph of your query letter restates your idea. Include a polite request to send in the article. "Thank you for your time. May I send "Fifty Ways to Save Money" for your consideration?"

Follow up on your queries. Most guidelines list a response time or you can consult a superior research tool like Writer's Market. If the stated time has elapsed with no reply, contact the editor with a quick note or e-mail. Often they have just lost track of time or forgotten your query. Editors are human, too!

When an editor requests the article, respond as quickly as possible. Deliver everything you promised in your query letter, making sure to proofread your manuscript before you send it. Reading aloud to yourself or a friend catches 90% of errors.

Keep sending queries. Study editorial calendars or think about what kind of articles they publish in different seasons. Think at least three to six months in advance. For instance, now is the time to be sending out summer queries or polishing that back-to-school piece. Timing is a huge factor in queries.

There you have it. Query letters are the keys to unlocking publishing success. A quality query will grab an editor's attention, lead to writing assignments and put you on the path to fame and fortune.

Shaunna Privratsky writes fulltime from North Dakota, in between shoveling snow. Please visit The Writer Within at http://shaunna67.tripod.com. We are looking for new writers and we are a paying market.