If you're going to pitch your screenplay in writing, then you'll need to master the art of the Query Letter. Unfortunately, everyone thinks they know the right way in which to fashion this correspodence, which can lead to utter confusion. Fortunately, there are tips and guidelines that competent screenwriters follow. Let's look at an example of how to structure a Query Letter.

Part I

Contact information

Lance Manion                                                                                                                            1003 Colony Road
Rolling Hills, CA 90274

• This should appear in the upper right section of the page.

Part II

Date

• This should appear a couple of lines below the contact information.

Part III

Recipient Information

Executive's name
Executive's title
Address of company

• This should appear a couple of lines below the date
• Make sure you get this information absolutely correct. KNOW to whom you are sending this letter.

Part IV

Greeting

Dear Mr. or Ms. Executive:

• Always use a colon, not a comma.

Part V

Tagline or Logline

• quick enticement

Part VI

Short Synopsis

• One paragraph

Part VII

The Three M's

• Mainstream, Memorable, Marketable (remind them that you know what sells...without being patronizing)

Part VIII

Biography

• If you've experienced something pertaining the storyline, tell them.
• If you've sold other projects, tell them.
• If you've won awards for screenwriting, tell them.
• If Tom Hanks suggested you send this letter, tell them. (You better know Tom Hanks, though)

Part IX

Thank them for their time.

Part X

Close with pleasantries.

Sincerely,
Lance Manion                                                                                                                             555-555-5555
jsmith@emailaddress.com
 

Tips

• Keep it one page
• If by mail, always include a SASE envelope.
• If my email > Subject line: A fantasy/adventure about (....) by previously produced screenplay writer
• Don't ramble. Keep it tight and to the point.
• Don't kiss up to the executive. They've heard it all. Besides, that's the the job of their assistant.
• No grammatical and spelling errors.
• DO NOT send your screenplay unless directed to so.