Some Do's & Don'ts

Do address me by name, and not 'To Whom it May Concern.' Especially after I've responded to 6 previous submissions from you.

Don't summarize your story in the cover letter. What's the point?

Do follow the guidelines and attach your manuscript.

Do not send me to Skydrive or some other place that hosts your manuscript.

Do query if you've not had a response within a week. I usually respond within a day or two.

Do not complain that 'you responded so quick, I wonder if you read the story?'

Do try to purchase or read a copy of the journal to get a feel for my tastes.

Do not send me your 310,000 word fantasy trilogy, or stories that are in any language other than English.

Do query about non-fiction and essays, but do not send them.

Do not send me your book, CD, DVD, or magazine to review.

Do not send me reprints. Ever. Don't even query about them.