The anatomy of a successful query letter
In this article, we’ll break down the anatomy of a successful query letter. We’ll discuss the essential components of a query letter, and offer tips on how to make each section stand out. We’ll also discuss common mistakes that many writers make and how to avoid them when crafting your letter.
Components of a Query Letter
A query letter usually consists of three main components: the hook, the summary, and the author bio.
The Hook
The hook is the first and crucial component of the query letter. The hook should grab the agent’s attention and make them want to keep reading. The hook is your chance to walk the agent through your premise, genre, and target audience.
When crafting your hook, you should avoid generic phrases and clichés. Instead, focus on making the hook unique to your story. Start with an attention-grabbing first sentence or a question that the agent will want to answer by reading further.
For example, if you’ve written a mystery novel, your hook could be:
What if the greatest mystery of your life was your own family’s dark secrets?
The Summary
The summary is the heart of your query letter. This is the section where you’ll describe your book's plot, characters, themes, and conflicts. Keep in mind that your summary should be brief and to-the-point.
When writing your summary, you should include just enough detail to give the agent a taste of your story without giving away any spoilers. It's important to focus on your main character and their major problem and how it unfolds throughout the story.
To summarize, you’ll want to keep the following points in mind when writing your summary:
- Keep it brief
- Focus on the main character and the main problem
- Keep it spoiler-free (don't reveal the ending!)
Author Bio
The last component of your query letter is the author bio. This is your chance to explain who you are as a writer and why you're the best person to write this book. Your author bio should include any relevant credentials, previous publications, or awards you've won.
If you don't have any writing credentials, don't worry. You can still include information about your background, education, and any life experiences that gave you insight into your subject matter.
For example, if you're writing a memoir about overcoming illness, you might include information about your own experience with the illness and how you turned that experience into a book.
Common Query Letter Mistakes
Now that we’ve discussed the key components of a query letter, let’s consider a few common mistakes writers make when crafting them.
- Lack of research: Before submitting a query letter, do your research on the agents you’re targeting. Make sure they represent your genre and are accepting query letters at the time.
- Typos and grammatical errors: A query letter filled with typos and grammatical errors signals a lack of professionalism and attention to detail. Make sure to proofread your query carefully before submitting it.
- Lack of specificity: Avoid vague or generic language in your query letter. Get specific about your characters, plot, and setting, so the agent can get a clear sense of your book’s uniqueness.
- Overstating one’s achievements: While you want to impress the agent with your credentials, it's important not to sound overly self-promoting. Stick to relevant achievements and avoid exaggerating your accomplishments.
Conclusion
Crafting a successful query letter takes time and effort, but with these tips in mind, you’ll be well on your way to making a great first impression. Remember that the key to a successful query letter is being specific, concise, and polished. Keep in mind that the agent is looking for a story that they can sell. If your query letter can persuade them that your story is not only worth telling but also worth selling, you’ll be well on your way to a successful writing career.