There are a ton of good books on how to write query letters. When I started in print, I had zero clips. I had never done anything online even, so a good query was very important.
My queries usually follow a standard format. I start with a hook or opening to get the editor’s attention. For example, a startling statistic or interesting fact or scene.
Next paragraph I say something like, in my 800 article entitled _____, I will ( and than I write what my story will be about, what experts or people I will interview and any sidebars or photos which can be included.
In the third paragraph I state my qualification for writing. Now I state publications I have been published in. However, if you are new to print, you can state websites you have been published in, or experience, certifications and education which relates to the query topic. (If you don’t have any of this, don’t give up, just leave this part out.)
Last paragraph I state why this would be of interest to the readers of this particular publication.
I would highly recommend keeping a query short. One page should do.
Get writers guidelines for the publications you want to pitch to. Some like an email query, some regular mail. Magazines and newspapers may only have certain sections open to freelancers so it pays to get the guidelines.
This is likely more than you wanted to know, but I think print work is a great addition for freelancers to get involved in, so I get talkative.
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