How to Write Query Letters for Freelance Articles

If you want to successfully sell an article to any publication, including magazines and newspapers, you must master writing query letters. Editors are usually as impressed by quality writing and good ideas as they are by credentials and publication experience. Even the most inexperienced writer can sell an article. Don't let a lack of published clips stop you.

Do your homework: Before querying any publication, there are a few basic things you should do. Make sure to read the publication in order to learn what kinds of writing the editor publishes, and so you'll know what topics have already been recently covered. Editors seek new ideas and fresh angles; you won't want to submit a query on a topic that has just been written about by someone else. You will also want to read the publication's submission guidelines and be sure to follow them, paying attention to word-count and formatting/style requirements. Study the publication for the most current editor contact information, including the editor's name and address. Editor information can change at any time, so it is best to rely on the publication itself for finding the most current information, rather than assuming the information in Writers Market or similar sources is up-to-date. Be sure to find out whether the editor prefers receiving queries by postal mail or by email.