In the wild fast paced world of article writing nothing makes or breaks a writer then the ability to write a consuming query. I have been a freelance writer for over 10 years with over 300 writing credits and most of my work comes from queries.

Why query, you ask? Why not simply write the article and sell it? Because in the time it takes you to research the article two things will happen.

1. Someone else will already be writing the article you are because they had the good sense to query first and land the assignment.

2. YOU could have written 50 queries and landed yourself a possible 5 articles to write.

Ready, set? Query!

1. DO YOUR HOMEWORK: read a copy of the magazine, on line, in the library or order it. Find out who the editors are and what departments. Make a list of them and when you find likes or dislikes jot them down(Home Forum of The Christian Science Monitor runs Kidspace, every Tuesday. They like engaging subjects aimed at 7 to 12. Be sure to include a hands on sidebar idea. Young Rider articles that are clear for the age group but doesn't talk down. The magazine is mostly female read... etc.)

2. BECOME A KNOWLEDGEABLE PERSON: on the topic you want to write about. Its not necessary to become an expert, though its always good to know of a few you can ask for confirmation on your subject or as a interview possibility. You still need at least a working knowledge or you won't be able to convince anyone you are the person to write the job.

3. KNOW THE EDITORIAL CALENDAR: Some magazines are themed. Some have certain subjects that are covered in certain seasons. Find out. Request an editorial calendar. Check on line and peruse the titles of back issues. Then query A FULL 6 MONTHS before that issue is due to press. Most magazines work at least 4 months in advance.

4. WRITE WITH PASSION: Even your queries should stand out as full of feeling for the subject. . If you don't write interested the editor won't be either. One great way to make this happen is to keep an ongoing list of things that interest you. If you haven't written anything about it in a year, and the magic is on, cross it off your list. I keep mine on my computer and periodically take out the trash!

5. OFFER CHOICES: I found the best strategy is to come up with three ideas and pitch them to the editor at the same time. Most times they will show interest in one. Sometimes I land all three!

6. SHORT AND SWEET: keep your query to one page. It should include three ideas, your experience( or interest) in the subject- why you are the writer for the job.

7. MANNERS: Include a SASE. Include an email address. Say you will submit on spec (in other words let them try before they buy). Say you'll track down photos, lists sources, provide recommended reading lists. Anything to make their job easier and give you the sale.

8. DELIVER EARLY: I deliver at least 2 weeks before deadline. This is good two ways. One, the editor has time to ask questions and arrange changes with no time pressure. Two, the editor has time to get it type set, with ads and pictures. You'll be a hero and get "call back" work.

Now here is the practice. Write five queries this week. Pick three, research them, find markets and send them out. Continue on doing this until you are sending out at least 5 queries a week.

By crafting consuming queries I have doubled my income from the days when I just sent out stuff blindly. I saved time and made money. What are you waiting for? Someone else to sell your idea? Craft it in a query and send it out to market.