Simply Write: How to Write a Strong Pitch

The Query

I started as a freelance writer when Paleolithic was an era not a diet, and I struggled with the query letter. For a magazine writer—any writer really—that’s bad news because the query is how you sell your piece.

So, I did the thing you do when you want to improve, I practiced. A lot. I asked questions, read books, studied the form, and wrote scores of queries. Eventually, I broke the code, and I started selling just about everything I queried.

If I can do it, so can you. 

But, we make it too hard. We embellish and joke and try to look cute so we can be with the cool kid’s publishing group. But that’s not professional and that’s not what editors or agents are looking for.

The query, or pitch, is a business letter, and if you learn how to write a good one, it will open doors for your writing career.

Queries for Fiction

When querying literary agents, it’s all about the hook. Your query letter should give a sense of the person behind the story while clearly defining the genre and tone of your work.

The letter should answer these questions:

1. Who’s your protagonist? (Give the agent a character to care about)
2. What problem do they face? (Introduce the stakes and tension)
3. What choices must they make? (What keeps readers turning the page?)

And make it lively; let your voice and tone show through.

For example, compare these two ideas:

1. Jay quits his job to write a novel. He wants a new life. But, when he finally makes it big in the industry, things take a turn for the worse, and Jay’s fame is threatened by rumors from a mysterious source. With his book ready to release, Jay stops at nothing to end the rumors before it’s too late.

Instead, let’s try this: 

2. Jay quits his job in cyber security after misconduct allegations and decides to write a novel under a pseudonym based on his experience. With a new life and new identity, Jay is ready to put his past far behind him. But when the salacious details of Jay’s previous work history boosts his book into literary stardom, Jay begins receiving emails from an anonymous source threatening to expose his secrets and the real-life part he played in his own novel. Only weeks before Jay’s new book is launched, he is willing to do whatever is necessary to stop the mysterious person threatening to ruin his new life—even if it means using the same cyber security skills that got him into trouble in the first place.

What’s different here? 

Story 2 is more specific and builds character. We won’t learn a ton about Jay in a pitch, but in the second example we do learn his career in cyber security was bad enough for him to quit and want a new life for himself.

We also get a hint of the problem Jay faces when an anonymous emailer threatens to expose his new identity. Secrets can build suspense.

That leaves Jay with a choice, and he chooses to fight for what’s his, even if it means sacrificing his own character.

And that makes for an interesting story that will leave agents and editors wanting to know more.

In your pitch letter, be sure to drop comparative, or comp, titles in, if you have a couple in mind. This gives agents an idea of where your book might be positioned in the market.

Pro tip: Personalize your letter to each agent, and always check submission guidelines to see whether they request just a query letter or also a synopsis and sample chapters. Double-check the agent’s name and spell it and the he agency name correctly.

The query should also include a single line about why you are approaching that particular agent, for example: “I saw that you represented Jo Schmo; my novel deals with similar themes, so I thought I’d reach out.”

And be sure to include a line about who you are and any writing awards or publishing credits you may have.

The Nonfiction Query: Lead with Impact

For nonfiction, your query should feel like the start of a great article or essay. Lead with a strong hook that gives a glimpse into the heart of the story. Focus on the character or problem at hand, like this:

When a car accident left Maria Johnson with a broken back, doctors told her she’d be confined to a life of chronic pain. They were right—until Maria discovered aerial yoga. Now, agile and pain-free, she helps others reclaim their bodies and their lives.

Once you’ve hooked the editor, lay out the scope of your piece:

1. Timeliness: Why this story now?
2. Expert insight: Which experts or data will you include to support your narrative?
3. Your connection: Why are you the perfect person to write this? Maybe you’ve experienced a similar journey or are particularly knowledgeable about the subject.

End your query with a short bio, highlighting any relevant experience or publications.

The Nuts and Bolts

In both types of queries, keep your formatting professional: single-spaced, 1-inch margins, and a clean, readable font like Arial or Times New Roman. Include the title of your work, word count, and genre.

Remember: Every word counts. Agents and editors read countless queries, so don’t bury them in unnecessary details. Stick to the essentials and focus on what makes your story unique.

Finally, a note on comps: If you’re unsure about your genre, compare your work to recent titles in the market. It shows you know where your book fits and gives agents a frame of reference.

Good luck, and happy pitching.