Submission Guidelines

Once you've completed a piece, the next step is publishing it. Many publications have specific guidelines, so be sure to consult those requirements first. However, if you are interested in sending your piece out to other outlets, here is the basic process:

1. Decide on a market for your audience.

2. Choose a few specific publications (a book like Writer's Market can help with this process).

3. Follow the publisher's specific requirements.

4. Most non-student publications will ask for a query letter, which is a letter that summarizes your experience as      an author, as well as your piece. Here's how you write one:

     First paragraph: The hook
     This is where you get the attention of your reader. The first sentence should provide the title and genre of your
     piece. Then, you should imaginatively describe the piece.

     Second paragraph: The bio
     This is where you provide brief biographical information. Here you should mention writing      
     courses, publications, and awards.

     Third paragraph: The conclusion
     Sign off. Explain why your piece is a good fit for the publication. Be sure to provide your contact information.

For more information on query letters, see http://www.writersdigest.com/article/10-query-letter-no-nos/?print=1.