What makes for a great partial? Generally, it's a well-written synopsis and a dynamite first three chapters (or approximately the first fifty pages of your novel) that leave the reader — in this case, the editor or agent — wanting to read more of your romance. More specifically, however, a great partial should include the items specifically requested by the editor or agent and showcase your work in its best light. The following checklist can help:

Checklist for a Great Partial

Did you follow the agent's or editor's instructions about what to send?

Did you address your envelope correctly and reference that your material was requested in the cover letter? (Assuming it was requested, of course.)

Are your synopsis, chapters, and cover letter free of grammatical and spelling errors?

Does your first chapter open with a hook?

Does your last chapter end with an even bigger hook?

Did you include an SASE?

Is your contact information printed on the first page of your synopsis and sample chapters?

As you read in previous chapters, it's important to end each scene and chapter with a hook, or a compelling reason for the reader to keep turning the pages. This advice is especially true when submitting a partial to an editor or agent.