Wrong

One paragraph. Yes, just one. After this advice, frustration shows. My fellow writers explain it cannot be done, more details show the whole story, or the subplots need mentioning due to equal importance.

Wrong

You must propose your main plot-and only your main plot-in the query letter because you want to pitch fast and hold the agent or editor's attention. It shows you can choose the right words and focus on the big picture. This is the main reason you want to do this.

Wrong

I'm going to tell you the real reason: The pitch you use will be the same pitch an agent uses to court an editor. It will be the same pitch the editor uses to convince the publishing house. It will be the same pitch the publisher uses to get your book in the stores. And-this will thrill you-it will be the blurb on the book's back or jacket.

That's right. You're not only working your query letter, but the pitches for everyone else in the game. So remember the next time you want to go on and on with the plot portion within your query letter-if you can't pitch the project in ten seconds or less, neither can anyone else.

And that means no sale for all involved.