Ready to write a query letter? You wrote your book. You revised it to death. You may have even polished it so hard your editor said, “So, what exactly is my job?” And now… it’s time for one of the most nerve-racking steps in the publishing industry and your writing career: learning how to write a query letter.
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I’m mostly indie published, but I also have several trad titles and have dealt with agents over the years. It’s not an easy feat, but I have some tips and tricks to get an agent to read your query letter.
If you’re an aspiring writer (especially with your first novel, whether it’s science fiction, historical fiction, romance, or fantasy fiction), I made this helpful article to be your roadmap. Most literary agents get hundreds — sometimes thousands — of query letters a year. They skim them fast. If yours doesn’t stand out almost immediately, it might hit the virtual slush pile permanently.
But don’t panic. You can write a successful query letter, and I’ll teach you how. Let’s break it down step by step with real examples, direct advice, and what to avoid like the plague.
Still deciding on your publishing path? It all depends on whether traditional publishing or self-publishing better fits your goals. Our Traditional vs. Self-Publishing guide breaks down the pros, cons, timelines, and tradeoffs of each path so you can decide where a literary agent fits into your publishing plan.
What a Query Letter Is (and Why It Matters)
First things first. What exactly is a query letter? Simply put, a query letter is a one‑page business letter you send to literary agents to pitch your book and seek representation. Think of it as your handshake with the publishing industry. A query letter has one purpose: to seduce the agent or editor into reading or requesting your work. It’s gotta be firm, friendly, and professional.
Pretty much all literary agents rely on query letters as the first filter in the query process. Before they request sample pages or the full manuscript (which is the best response you can hope for), they want to know:
- Who you are
- What your book is about
- Why this particular agent should care
And here’s an important guideline every writer should follow: a good query letter is usually one page long, around 250–400 words (yes, that specific). Most agents read dozens of these in a day, in addition to a never-ending list of other tasks, so a concise and compelling format is key.
Why? Because most agents skim query letters fast. They’re looking for professionalism, clarity, and promise. If you fail to communicate your book’s worth clearly and quickly, they’ll move on. Not because they hate your story, but because they literally don’t have time.
Also, most agents have a preconceived idea or even a wish list of exactly what they’re looking for, so they skim for keywords and if your query doesn’t have them, they move on.
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The Core Structure of a Good Query Letter
A winning query letter usually follows a clear structure. Each section has a purpose, and none of them should be longer than a few sentences.
The Greeting
Don’t start with a generic “Dear Agent.” That’s like sending a Valentine that says, “Dear Person Addressed.”
If you’re contacting a particular agent (which you should. More on that in a sec), use their name. Better yet, include a personalized note that shows you researched agents and know why you’re querying them.
Example:
Dear Ms. Rivera, I’m querying you because of your work with fantasy authors and your recent representation of award‑winning fantasy fiction.
This tells the agent you didn’t just blindly dump in the same letter to most agents on your list.
The Hook
The first paragraph should introduce your story’s main character and its central conflict, in a way that grabs attention.
Your hook is not a summary. It’s a promise of a story.
Example:
At seventeen, Glinda Mage can manipulate shadows, a gift that could save her kingdom from eternal night… or doom her to become the very monster she fears.
A strong hook sets the tone, anchors genre, and begins the story.
The Mini‑Synopsis
Now, give the agent a short description of your story’s stakes, conflict, and arc. Be specific. Not general.
Rather than saying something like “It’s about love and loss,” say:
When Glinda’s village burns, she must ally with a sworn enemy to stop a creeping darkness, but every step toward victory costs her a piece of her humanity.
This section is where most writers fall off the rails. Don’t spoil the ending. Don’t justify every character choice. Just show the emotional journey. That’s literally all they’re looking for.
Book Details
Here’s where you tell them your book title, rough word count, and important genre markers like science fiction, romantasy, historical fiction, nonfiction book.
Also include comparable titles (comp titles) which are books with similar tone or audience, ideally within the same genre. Agents prefer queries specific to their genre and recent sales of similar books. Comparative titles should list 1-2 recent commercially successful books with similar themes or tones to demonstrate market viability. This helps the agent instantly understand where your book sits in the market.
Example:
TWILIGHT meets DUNE in this 95,000‑word science fiction fantasy.
Agents scan this bit to see if you fit their editorial interests and market sensibilities.
Your Credentials
This part of query letter writing is brief, but super important. This section is often called the bio paragraph, and it should include relevant writing experience, publication credits, or any writing credentials that make you a promising author.
The bio paragraph should also establish a personal connection by sharing relevant personal details, such as your credentials, life outside writing, and current location. This helps build rapport and credibility with agents and readers.
If you’re unpublished, that’s totally fine. Lots of agents represent first‑time authors all the time.
If you’re a self-published author with previous books that sold well, mention it here. If you have writing awards, contests, or even a solid writing group background — include it.
Example:
I have published short stories in < Name> Magazine and was a finalist in the < Name> Writing Contest.
Or
I’m a USA TODAY Bestselling indie author and an award-winning screenwriter.
Including these details in your bio paragraph helps the agent understand your background, credentials, and how your work fits into the current market. This builds confidence that you’re serious about your writing career.
The Closing
This is your sign‑off. Keep it simple:
- Mention whether the full manuscript is available
- Thank them for their time and consideration
- Provide your contact info
Keep it professional and succinct. No demands, no pressure, and definitely no praising your own work as groundbreaking or unlike anything else they’ll ever read. That’s ground for an immediate NO.
Query Letter Formatting Requirements
Beyond structure, your query letter must follow standard business letter formatting. Many literary agents will reject a submission immediately if it looks unprofessional.
A query letter should:
- Be one page
- Be single-spaced
- Use a standard 12-point font (such as Times New Roman or Arial)
- Stay under 400 words (typically 250–350 words is ideal)
- Include your book title, genre, and word count
- Follow each agent’s specific submission guidelines exactly
When learning how to write a query letter, remember that formatting signals professionalism. A properly formatted letter shows agents you understand the publishing industry and respect their time.
How to Write a Query Letter Step‑by‑Step
No two query letters are the same because no two stories are the same. But using the key elements I just went over, you can craft one heck of a catchy letter. Here’s the process I walk every writer through.
Step 1: Research the Agent WELL
It’s totally okay to query multiple agents. Make yourself a list of, say, ten that you would love to work with. Read the agent’s submission guidelines. Some want sample pages, others want a short synopsis, others want only a query letter.
Agents usually list strictly what they want, and ignoring it is the fastest way to trigger a rejection.
Also check that the agent represents your genre. No reason to send fantasy to an agent who only wants romance novels or kid’s books.
Step 2: Personalize Strategically
Yes, personalize each letter. But don’t write a novel about your life. Mention why you chose this agent. It could be a book they repped, a clip from their agent bio, anything that makes it clear you didn’t copy‑paste a generic query.
That small detail tells them you respect their time and you did your homework.
Step 3: Write a Clean, Professional Letter
This is a business letter. Use formal language, paragraphs, and correct grammar. Avoid gimmicks like emojis, fake quotes, or calling it a super awesome book you think rocks.
Agents want professionalism.
Step 4: Refine the Hook and Synopsis
Re‑read your story premise. Ask friends or critique partners to read your hook and mini‑synopsis — do they get it? Do they care?
A strong query letter is as clear as a book blurb.
Step 5: Polish and Test
Re‑read your query multiple times. Read it out loud. Use tools like Writer’s Digest style tips, or ask a professional editor for feedback.
If your story isn’t really ready, don’t send it. Agents prefer polished work that they can work at selling asap, so make sure you’ve crafted a first chapter that truly captivates and engages readers before you start querying.
What Not to Put in a Query Letter
Here are things that instantly scream “amateur”:
- Overlong backstory about you rather than your book
- Spoilers unrelated to the main arc
- Claims like “This will be a bestseller like New York Times …”
- Complaints about how hard it is to publish
- Bragging about things that don’t matter
Don’t bother mentioning irrelevant personal information, such as your age or marital status—these details are unnecessary and can distract from your writing credentials or manuscript.
It’s important to avoid including irrelevant personal information in your query letter, such as your age or marital status.
Stick to what matters: who your book is for, what it is, and why it’s worth an agent’s time.
Quick Formatting Checklist for a Query Letter
Before you hit send, make sure your query letter follows standard industry formatting. Literary agents expect a professional, easy-to-read business letter, not something flashy or experimental.
A query letter should:
- Be one page
- Run approximately 250–400 words
- Be single-spaced
- Use a standard 12-point font (like Times New Roman or Arial)
- Follow a traditional business letter structure
- Include your book title, genre, and word count
- Mention that the full manuscript is complete and available upon request
- Follow the agent’s specific submission guidelines
Most agents skim quickly. Clean formatting signals professionalism and respect for their time. If you’re learning how to write a query letter, remember that presentation matters almost as much as content. A polished, properly formatted letter shows you understand the query process and take your writing career seriously.
Query Letter Template You Can Use (With Notes)
Here’s a winning query letter that landed author Catherine Cheng her agent. She shared it on TikTok under her handle @smolcatwrites.
Dear [Agent],
WHEN THE SEA BURNS RED is a dual-POV, 118,000-word standalone adult fantasy novel with series potential. It reimagines the rise of the Chinese god Nezha as a doomed romance, blending the romantic tragedy of A SONG TO DROWN RIVERS with the epic struggle against fate in SHE WHO BECAME THE SUN.
Yunzui is a shape-shifting dragon cursed to absorb chaos. For twelve thousand years, she has successfully contained it. But with chaos amassing at an accelerating rate, she faces an impossible choice: destroy it and die, or let it consume the world.
Her bleak fate takes an unexpected turn when she meets Nezha. Chaos behaves strangely around him, and she begins to suspect he, too, can absorb it. If she can push him to commit three acts of betrayal, the chaos within her will transfer to him, sealing his demise instead of hers.
Having sworn an oath to defend humanity against the fantastical, Nezha has hunted Yunzui for ten years. When he finally catches her in her vulnerable human form, he strikes. Yet she does not die from the wound, and in the aftermath of her escape, he discovers an unsettling truth: the dragon can only be slain by one she loves.
Determined to survive, Yunzui follows Nezha to his family, his sect, and his country. He plays along, intent on winning her heart. As their lives intertwine, her feelings grow increasingly complicated with Nezha reminding her of a man she once loved – a man long dead. Meanwhile, Nezha starts to question the truth of his teachings, realizing Yunzui is far from the cruel and merciless beast he spent a lifetime preparing to kill.
But this is not a love story. Between Yunzui, Nezha, and the world, one must certainly die.
Best,
Catherine
Why it works:
- Clear hook
- Strong comps
- Professional tone
- Quick credentials
- Manuscript availability
For non-fiction, just swap out the section about the story for details about the subject matter.
What Happens After You Send Your Query Letter?
You’ve learned how to write a query letter. You’ve polished it. You’ve followed submission guidelines. You’ve double-checked your word count and formatting.
Now what?
First, understand that the waiting period is normal. Many literary agents receive hundreds of query letters each month. Most agents operate under a “no response means no” policy. If you do not hear back after the stated response window, it is typically considered a rejection.
Response times vary, but you can expect anywhere from 4 to 12 weeks, depending on the agency and the time of year. Some agents respond quickly. Others may take several months.
Here’s what you should do during this phase:
- Track your submissions in a spreadsheet (agent name, date sent, response window, outcome)
- Do not follow up or “nudge” before the agent’s stated timeframe
- Only send a polite follow-up if their guidelines allow it
- Continue writing your next project
Many writers make the mistake of obsessively refreshing their inbox. A more productive move is to keep building your writing career. If this is your first novel or debut novel, remember that querying is often a numbers game. Rejections are part of the publishing industry, even for published authors, and understanding how long it realistically takes to write a book can help you set sustainable expectations for your next project. .
If an agent requests sample pages or the full manuscript, respond promptly and professionally. If you receive personalized feedback, that’s a strong sign your query letter writing is close to landing a book deal.
In short: send, track, wait, and keep writing.
Because while your query letter is circulating, your next big deal could already be taking shape on the page.
FAQs About Writing Query Letters
What is a query letter?
A query letter is a one-page business letter sent to literary agents when seeking representation for a manuscript. It serves as a sales tool in the publishing industry. Its purpose is to persuade the agent to request sample pages or the full manuscript.
A query letter includes:
– A personalized introduction
– A short synopsis of the book
– Comparable titles
– Book details (genre, word count)
– A brief bio with writing experience or publication credits
For most aspiring writers, especially those with a first novel or debut novel, the query letter is your first introduction to industry professionals.
How do you write a simple query letter?
To write a simple query letter, follow this structure:
– Personalized greeting to a particular agent
– A compelling hook introducing the main character
– A short description of the story premise and stakes
– Book title, genre, and word count
– Comparable titles
– A brief bio paragraph with writing credentials
– A professional closing
A simple query letter should be one page, around 250–350 words, and written in a standard business letter format. The goal isn’t to summarize your entire novel. The goal is to entice literary agents to request sample pages or the full manuscript.
How do you start your query letter?
The first paragraph of your query letter should contain personalization and a concise overview of your book. Start with:
“Dear [Agent Name],” never “Dear Agent.”
A short personalized line showing why you chose this particular agent.
One strong hook introducing the main character and central conflict.
When learning how to write a query letter, remember that the opening sets the tone. A good hook introduces the protagonist, their goal, and what’s at stake if they fail. It should immediately show the agent what kind of story you’re offering.
What not to put in a query letter?
Common mistakes in writing query letters include:
– Typos, punctuation errors, and grammatical mistakes
– Irrelevant personal information like age or marital status
– Claims that your book will be a New York Times bestseller
– Sending to agents without checking submission guidelines
– Gimmicks like unusual fonts or AI-generated content
– Using unusual fonts, colors, or formatting instead of standard business letter style
A poorly written query letter will axe any chance you have of the agent requesting your manuscript. Many agents can immediately tell if a writer has researched how to write a query letter properly. Stick to professionalism and specific details about your story.
How many words should a query letter be?
A query letter should not exceed one page, single spaced, and is typically between 200 and 450 words. Most agents prefer something closer to 250–350 words. This is enough space to:
– Introduce the main character
– Present the central conflict
– Establish stakes
– Mention comparable titles
– Include writing credentials
If your query letter runs long, re-read it and tighten the language. Clarity beats length every time.
What is a good hook for a query letter?
A good hook introduces the main character, their goal, and the stakes in a few lines. For example:
“When her village burns to the ground, a reluctant heir must ally with her sworn enemy to stop a war that could destroy her kingdom.”
A strong hook avoids vague phrases like “a journey of self discovery.” Instead, it provides concrete conflict and emotional stakes. Including a compelling hook in your query letter is crucial because the story description does most of the work in convincing literary agents to request your manuscript.
What is the format for writing a query?
A query letter should be single-spaced, written in a 12-point font, and kept to one page.
Should self‑published authors mention their past books?
Yes, you can mentioned self-published books, but only if relevant. Just include it concisely in the credentials paragraph.
My Parting Words
Take a deep breath. Writing a query letter is one of the biggest milestones in your writing career, and it takes patience, practice, and pride in your work. A polished query should invite the right attention but also signal professionalism to industry professionals who can actually help you get a book deal.
Definitely bookmark this as a helpful article in your writing journey, even just to refer back to the query letter template I included, and share it with fellow writers who are ready to begin querying with confidence.
Let’s get those query letters opened! And be sure to check out our other helpful guides for writers right here on Writer Gadgets!