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How to Submit a Query Letter to a Literary Agent

For some writers, there is nothing more satisfying than finally completing a first novel. All the time and effort that went into creating the masterpiece brings a sense of fulfillment to the author. The method of getting the book published, however, is almost as hard as writing the book itself, and it involves finding an agent to represent the book and sell it to publishers. For those aspiring authors hoping to reach this goal, there are certain guidelines to follow when submitting a manuscript to a literary agency.

Things You'll Need

  • Computer with Internet connection
  • Printer
  • Blank printer paper
  • Standard letter-size envelope
  • Self-seal envelope
  • Stamps
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Instructions

    • 1

      Use the Internet to research what agents you would like to submit your work to. There are many literary agent databases online, including Agent Query and Preditors & Editors (see references). It is also possible to Google “Literary Agents” and research information on agents and what agencies they work for.

    • 2

      Using Microsoft Word on the computer, type an engaging query letter that includes the following information: agent’s name and address, date, name of book, paragraph describing the book, your credentials and your contact information.

    • 3

      Print the query letter and proofread to make sure it is clear, concise and attention-grabbing. It shouldn’t be more than one page.

    • 4

      If the agent prefers a sample of the book to be submitted with the query letter, print out the appropriate amount of pages.

    • 5

      Prepare a self-addressed stamped envelope (SASE) to send with your query. All agents require a SASE if you are expecting a reply.

    • 6

      Seal the query letter and SASE in a standard letter-size envelope and mail to the agent. If mailing other pages, such as a synopsis or writing sample, use a larger mailing envelope that doesn’t require you to fold the pages.

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