Query Letter 4.4

Example 4.4

Paragraph 1
I actually think that this might be an effective way to grab the editor’s attention, by using questions as an opening. But I don’t really like this method, I think that an editor might get annoyed with this type of query letter. I think that there are better ways to get the attention of the editor. I also think that the opening paragraph, and even opening sentence is probably the most important. Even if you have a very good article to sell, if they don’t get past the query letter, they probably won’t pick your article.

Paragraph 2
This is more of the same, continuation of paragraph. This also seems to be distracting.

Paragraph 3
I think that this glimpse into the article is nice. I think that there is a good amount of the story, and the sources in the story. This seems to be a good balance, of showing your writing skills, and selling the story at the same time. This I would say is the most interesting and strongest paragraph.

Paragraph 4
This describes the article a little more in depth, word length, and the major focus of the article. I like that she offers to do the photography work as well. This seems to be a growing trend, to have the writers take the photographs as well.

Paragraph 5
This describes the writer, and some brief history on what type of work has been published in the past. This is good, and it allows the editor to see that she is experienced as well. Which is always a bonus.

Paragraph 6
This is important. Thanking the editor for their time, this lets them know that you know how important their time and efforts are. I think this is the last thing that they read on the page, before considering reading the article. You want to leave them with a positive note.

Overall this is a good letter, but I would change the opening paragraph, I think it would be stronger if that were done.