How Much of Your Book Should You Have Finished Before Pitching to Agents?

When it comes to querying agents, the quality and completeness of your manuscript play a crucial role. The manuscript needs to be not only finished but also polished to the best of your ability. Agents generally prefer to see a complete draft, especially for fiction. Here’s a detailed guide on what constitutes a sufficient manuscript and how to prepare it before pitching to agents.

Types of Manuscripts: Fiction vs. Non-Fiction

Fiction: Most agents prefer to see the entire manuscript. This comprehensive submission allows them to evaluate your writing style, character development, and overall story arc. Having an entire finished manuscript is ideal for making a strong impression.

For fiction, a complete draft is the standard. Some agents might request a query letter and three chapters, including the introduction. It's crucial to have your manuscript fully edited, rewritten, and polished. Allow some time—ideally a few months—between drafts and revising before considering it ready for submission.

Non-Fiction: For non-fiction, a proposal is often sufficient. This typically includes:

A detailed outline of the book Sample chapters (usually 1-3) A market analysis and a description of your target audience Your credentials or platform

In the case of non-fiction, a well-researched and detailed proposal can be enough to pique an agent’s interest. However, agents might request the first 10-50 pages or even the complete manuscript if there is significant interest.

Query Letters: A Key Component of Your Pitch

A query letter is your chance to pitch your concept based on a strong synopsis and sample chapters, usually the first 10-50 pages. However, having the full manuscript ready is crucial if an agent expresses interest. This shows that you are serious about your work and can deliver a complete and polished product.

Genre Considerations

Some genres, such as romance or thrillers, have specific norms. For instance, in romance, a complete manuscript might be required, but other genres might accept a proposal or a partial manuscript. However, having a complete manuscript is still the safest route for most genres, as it demonstrates your commitment and the overall quality of your work.

It’s important to understand that what constitutes a “full manuscript” can vary. Some agents might specify that you need a query letter and three chapters, while others might require the entire manuscript. Always read the guidelines provided by the agent and tailor your submission accordingly.

Preparing Your Manuscript

The process of preparing your manuscript involves several key steps:

Completing the draft and ensuring it is well-written Editing and rewriting the manuscript Revising and allowing some time to sit on the manuscript before final revisions Paying attention to details like proofreading and formatting

Ultimately, the goal is to present the best possible version of your work. A well-prepared manuscript shows your dedication and professionalism.

Remember, while you can start querying with a partial work, especially in non-fiction, having a complete manuscript is ideal for fiction. This not only increases your chances of getting an agent interested but also makes a strong impression during the pitching process.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the preparation of your manuscript is essential before pitching it to agents. Whether it's a complete draft for fiction or a detailed proposal for non-fiction, your work should be polished and professional. Always tailor your submission according to the specific requirements of the agent you are approaching. Happy querying!