Formatting Your Query e-Writers. A query is a one page letter to an editor or publisher describing the proposed piece of writing, giving your credentials, and, hopefully, selling the editor on your idea. It is a letter of introduction between you in the editor if you haven't worked with him or her before. You not only have to present your idea in a winning light, but highlight the reasons that you are the writer for the job.
Some editors have personal preferences about the way the query is formatted.
To be certain what a particular editor is looking for, it's a good idea to send for the writer's guidelines for the publication. You can find addresses and contact names for many publications that take freelance work in the Writer's Market , and other books and magazines on the writing industry. There is a format that is used most frequently with good results. In the next paragraph, using some facts from your research, give a brief summary of the information your article will contain. Third, sell yourself.