When writing your fiction #query remember that we’re more interested in the story than in your background. Tell us about the book. #querytip

Lots of LinkedIn invitations in the query box. Please, no. @DonaghyLiterary @sue_mill #querytip

Kids, I am this close to adding a “not right for me because I don’t understand the concept” form rejection. Make sure it’s clear! #querytip

You mean you're querying a "fiction manuscript" not a "fictional manuscript." At least...I think you do? *mind blown* #isthemsreal #querytip

It bears repeating: if you don't address #literaryagent by name in query it's viewed as mass-mailed spam & deleted #querytip

Writing your query as a character can be cute, but continuing to correspond with an agent while in character is... confusing. #querytip

I am so over "I teach teenagers, so of course I can write for them!" That's not how any of this works. #querytip

"It’s professionally edited and flawless."-- #querytip, that's highly unlikely.

Looks like it's been a busy summer. Multiple 150K+ manuscripts queried today. Ask yourself: are all 187,934 words essential? #querytip

I usually just skim over small mistakes in queries, but the "heroin" when you mean "heroine" typo still makes me laugh every time. #querytip

Your author bio should never be longer than your book's blurb #querytip

When sending a query for a story in a crowded area, it's not a bad idea to include a sentence or two on why yours would stand out. #querytip

If you are going to try to name drop Stephen King in your query, at least spell his name right. #querytip

Always, always, always be respectful of an agent's time. They truly do not have enough of it. #querytip #amediting #amwriting

"I am removing my manuscript from consideration in order to self-publish it anonymously." Okay, man. #querytip (tip: don't do this.)

If you want to go the trad pub path, I would suggest aging your NA manuscript up (to adult) or down (to YA) before querying. #querytip 2/2

So, like, you don’t have to actually quote my submissions guidelines back to me in your letter. You can just execute them. #querytip

#querytip That's backstory (hopefully). Focus on what happens after breakup. That's what will make your book different from other 75%. 2/2

#querytip 75% of womens fic queries I receive start off w/ hubby cheats, they divorce, wife rediscovers/empowers herself. It's tired. 1/2

Helpful definition of magical realism -- it's very different from urban fantasy, high fantasy, paranormal. #querytip twitter.com/alioop7/status…