I find I receive a quicker response if I include a "reply" card with my query. Use a postcard or a plain index card. Following is an example:-

Author: (insert your name)

Title of story/article/script, etc: (insert the title of your work)

Date: (insert the mailing date)

Name of publication: (insert the name of the publication you are addressing the query to)

Yes, we are interested in seeing (insert title of your work): _______ (leave blank)

Sorry, we are not able to consider (insert title of your work): _______ (leave blank)

(Please tick as applicable) (directions for publication)

Comments: _____________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________

(leave blank for editor's comments, if any)

On the reverse of the card, I put my address and sufficient stamps for return mail. Stamp "air mail" if it will be coming back from overseas. Enclose the card in an envelope with your query letter and sit back and wait!

This system also works quite well if you're sending out a piece of work without querying. Enclose a card like this with your cover letter:-

Author: (insert your name)

Title of story/article/script, etc: (insert the title of your work)

Date: (insert the mailing date)

Name of publication: (insert the name of the publication you are addressing the query to)

Yes, we accept (insert title of your work) for publication: _______ (leave blank)

Sorry, we are unable to accept (insert title of your work): _______ (leave blank)

We are still considering (insert title of your work): _________ (leave blank)

(Please tick as applicable) (directions for publication)

Comments: _____________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________

(leave blank for editor's comments)

Put your name, address and sufficient stamps on the reverse of the card. Stamp "air mail" if it will be coming back from overseas.

In the event your work is not accepted and you want it returned, enclose a 9" x 12" self-addressed and stamped manila envelope. As all of my work is saved on my laptop and backed up, I just enclose a reply card and let the editor know in my cover letter that I have copies, so it's not necessary to return the story or article.

If you've queried a publication and they want to take a look at your piece, enclose a similar reply card as above. Give them a gentle reminder in your cover letter that they'd asked to see your work.

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