How to write a book proposal How to write a book proposal First make sure a book proposal is the appropriate document for you.
Many new writers make the mistake of using a book proposal for fiction.
While that is not entirely unheard of, it is not the usual way to get your work in the hands of a publishing house. Book proposals are often used to market non-fiction books and you may send a book proposal to an agent or editor without having finished the book first. If your interest is fiction, your document should be polished and complete before sending it on. Also be sure to check the Writer s Market or other reference to see if the agent or publisher you are targeting accepts unsolicited proposals. Many agents and publishers would rather a short query letter before being faced with the whole proposal document.