Query Letters and Cover Letters

[luke_e_richards]

Dear Writers,

I have some questions to those not so fresh in the game about how to format a good querry letter and/or cover letter. Is using a standard letter format such as one found in Microsoft Word a good idea? All I know is this: 1) know the editor's name, 2) don't write more than one page, 3) keep it simple.

Any other advice? I'm worried that I might be sending cover letters of an unprofessional character, and I have never sent a proper querry letter in my life.

Thanks in advance!

[clintl]

You typically don't need a query letter for submitting short fiction. In the cover letter, mention the story you are submitting, a paragraph about your background (including publishing credits if you have them; if you have attended a well-known workshop, like Clarion, or a graduate creative writing program, mention those as credits because with some publications, they can get you out of the slush pile). And if you're a regular reader of the publication, mention that in the closing sentence. That's about all you need in a cover letter.

[luke_e_richards]

Thanks a mil!

[Jamesaritchie]

The sort of rule of thumb for cover letters is "if you don't have anything to say, then don't say anything." Skip the cover letter.

Otherwise, just mention three good writing credits, and as Clintl says, anything such as Clarion, an MFA, etc.

There are a few markets that request a query for short fiction, and treat it just like a cover letter, only add a very brief synopsis of the story.