Query & proposal toolkit
Make the business pages as strong as the manuscript.
A compelling book can be weakened by a vague pitch. Your submission package should let an agent or editor understand the book, reader, market, and author quickly.
The query letter: a practical structure
Opening / personalization
If you have a genuine reason for choosing this agent, state it briefly. Otherwise begin with the book. Avoid long flattery.
The hook
Title, category/genre, approximate word count, and the central premise or problem in language that creates curiosity.
The pitch
For fiction: protagonist, desire, obstacle, stakes, and distinctive premise. For nonfiction: promise, problem, reader, approach, authority, and why now.
Comparable books
Choose recent, relevant titles that clarify readership and shelf position. Explain the useful comparison rather than simply listing blockbusters.
Author bio
Include credentials that matter to this book: expertise, publications, platform, professional experience, community, or lived authority when relevant.
Close with requested materials
Follow the agent’s guidelines exactly. If they ask for pages, synopsis, proposal, or attachments, send precisely what they request.
Nonfiction book proposal checklist
Exact expectations differ by category and agent, but strong proposals commonly answer these questions.
Useful query resources
QueryTracker Help
Query process explanations, sample resources, agent research help, and tracking tools.
🧭Jane Friedman
Publishing-path guidance and extensive resources on queries, proposals, platform, and the business of authorship.
📘Poets & Writers
Agent, small-press, literary magazine, contest, and career guidance for writers.
Before you press Send
Proofread the agent’s name, agency, requested materials, subject line, attachments, and spelling of your own title. Then check the agency website one final time to make sure the agent is still open to submissions.