Beginning writers commonly leave out key information in their proposals. Often, they leave out their own contact information. Equally as often, they forget to include a SASE, which means they'll never hear back from the agent or editor, and they'll never know why.

Just as frustrating for agents and editors, many aspiring authors omit some of the basic elements of a proposal package. Sometimes they “forget” to send a synopsis of their novel because they don't know how to write one. Sometimes nonfiction writers will leave out the discussion of competing books simply because they don't know how to frame that discussion. And, all too often, the writer will fail to deliver something the agent or editor specifically asks for.

Agents and editors are intimately familiar with writers who “accidentally” leave out important information, and they tend to view it as a sign that the writer isn't ready for publication. Whatever the reason behind the omission, the result is to make you look unpolished and amateurish.

Check It Off

The easiest way to make sure your proposal includes everything it needs is to make a list and check items off as you assemble the package (use the chart provided earlier in this chapter and add anything else you think you might be prone to forget). If you moved recently, you might want to double-check your contact information, for instance. If you don't usually keep stamps in the house, a checklist can remind you not to seal your package until you get to the post office, so you can stick a stamp on your SASE.

Many published authors use a checklist for each of their projects, to make sure they don't inadvertently leave anything out of their proposals. This is a good habit to get into. It relieves stress for you, because you can see at a glance what you need, and it promotes a professional image.

Follow Instructions

If an agent or editor asks you for a synopsis and your first two chapters, send her what she asks for. Don't send her your complete manuscript; don't send the last two chapters. Follow the instructions you're given as closely as you can.

Never tell an agent or editor that he already has a copy of whatever he asked for, even if you've already sent it. Chances are your material is buried in a precariously balanced stack of loose papers somewhere, and the agent or editor generally is not inclined to go pawing through that stack to look for your initial submission. Instead of being irritated that you have to send something twice, take the request as a compliment. It means the agent or editor is interested, and that's what you're aiming for.