If you’re at the stage of writing your book where you’ve finished editing and proofreading and you’re ready to send it off to publishers and agents, then first you’ll need to put together a submissions package.

Unfortunately, not too many writers are familiar with the kind of information they should include in their submissions package, so today I’m going to let you know!

Along with your writing sample you should also prepare and send the following to prospective publishers and agents:

An introductory / query letter
A synopsis
A CV
An outline of the market
A book blurb

Introductory / Query Letter – This will most definitely be read so take the time to write a good one! Include such information as what kind of book you want to publish, whether you have completed the book or not and some details about your personality. One side of the page is plenty – any longer and you run the risk of boring the reader. And one last tip, begin your letter well, as the first 11 words are absolutely crucial.

Synopsis - If you have written a fiction book then share what kind of book it is and what genre it sits within. Do not describe the plot in chapter by chapter order. Instead, sum it up in a nutshell, without going into the back story. Like the covering letter aim for no more than one side of an A4 sheet of paper.

If you have written a non-fiction book say what the competition is and why your book is different. Include facts, figures and other interesting detail about the subject of your book.

CV - Don’t just print off the CV that you used to apply for your latest job. Most of the information in it won’t be relevant to writing and getting your book published. Rewrite your CV focussing on your strengths of character and any writing achievements, or press interviews that you have experienced. Publishers seek authors who are willing to get stuck into the promotion of their book and who possess the necessary traits to make a good job of it.

Outline Of The Market – Again stick to one side of an A4 sheet of paper for this. Include what kind of book you have written, your qualifications to write it, how the book differs to others focused around the same subject and the kind of person you believe will purchase your book.

Book Blurb - This is the writing on the back of a book, which usually propels readers into making a decision about whether to buy your book or not. It should tempt the reader into wanting to know more immediately, without giving away how the book ends.

Once you have all this ready, then begin sending off your manuscript excerpt and supporting documents to relevant publishers and agents. Good luck!

-- From the Word Queen (and Court)