The best way to learn is to take a look at sample cover letters. The SASE is essential. Consult the journal's guidelines or call the editor for information. Excite is one World Wide Web search site that also catalogues and reviews web sites. The form of your story or poem can be important, as departures from the standard form can mark you as an amateur.
Preferred forms are the same ones used in our class.
For poetry , up to six poems per submission is acceptable. Each poem should start on a new page, and should have your name, address, and contact phone number on the sheet. If a poem is longer than one page, number pages and put your last name on the top of each page. If you send out multiple submmissions, keep track of them. If you are accepted by a magazine, immediately notify the other magazines of your acceptance to avoid an embarrassing and negative business situation.