For Writers: Do you need to always include a cover letter when you submitt a short story?

Question

Even when you have no other publishing credits?

Answer 1

You should, yes. Unless they say you don't need one, you should have one, and even when they say you don't need one, you should have one. It's good professionalism, even if you have no prior credits. It's not hard to write one up.

A cover letter tells the editor about you. Your address, phone number, email address, name, work title, and when they recieved your ms. A simple cover letter isn't a lot of work. Get to it.

Good luck.

Answer 2

Yes, but it can be very, very short.

Enclosed you will find my 2200-word mystery "Boo!" for your consideration for publication in "Big Honkin' Boo" magazine.

Thank you in advance for your time. I enclose my SASE for your reply.

Sincerely,


Maryn Bittner
123 Pleasant St.
Mytown, CA 87654
[phone]
[e-mail]

Of course, ideally you'd use/create letterhead so you'd end with just your name, the other contact information being at the top of the letterhead.

Answer 3

In a business situation, you always address your business. If your serious, or u won't be taken serious.

Answer 4

Of couse, explaining your story and how you came to the conclusion you did...who you are, etc.