Query Smarter, Not Harder

Using QueryTracker and ChatGPT to Land Your Agent

Having completed the first draft of my manuscript, I am now parallel-pathing two approaches: self-editing and preparing for potential self-publishing while actively shopping my work to literary agents. When I typed the final words of my draft, I felt equal parts excitement and overwhelm. What came next? This dual-track approach allows me to refine my work while pursuing opportunities to share it broadly. Throughout this process, I’ve developed a suite of tools using ChatGPT to assist with everything from evaluating agent fit to customizing submission materials. One of the most helpful features has been using ChatGPT to refine my query letters by aligning them with an agent’s specific interests and preferences, making each submission more targeted and effective. I decided these resources could be valuable to the broader writing community and am sharing this tutorial to guide others through these steps.

This guide will walk you through how to effectively use QueryTracker.net to identify potential literary agents for your work, evaluate their "fit," and customize your submission package. Additionally, I’ll highlight how ChatGPT and supporting tools can assist in crafting and organizing your materials.

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1. Getting Started with QueryTracker.net

Step 1: Create an Account

1. Visit QueryTracker.net and sign up for a free or premium account.

2. Verify your email and log in to access the full features of the platform.

Step 2: Search for Literary Agents

1. Navigate to the Search for Agents tab.

2. Use filters to narrow down agents based on your genre, location, and preferences (e.g., agents open to submissions). For example, if you’re writing Literary Fiction, select that as your genre and combine it with "Agents Open to Submissions" to refine your results further.

   • For example, select "Literary Fiction" or "Commercial Fiction" if your book combines those genres.

3. Review agent profiles to see their submission requirements, preferences, and track records.

Step 3: Build Your Agent List

1. Add agents of interest to your personal QueryTracker project list by clicking the "Add to List" button.

2. Prioritize agents based on their interests, the genres they represent, and any notes about their agency.

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2. Checking Agent "Fit" with ChatGPT

After identifying potential agents, use ChatGPT and supporting documents to evaluate their fit based on their online profiles, interviews, and submission preferences.

Step 1: Research Agent Profiles

1. Look up the agent’s official website or profile linked in QueryTracker.

2. Copy key details about their interests, notable authors they’ve worked with, and any preferences they’ve mentioned.

Step 2: Use Supporting Tools to Refine Your Search

• Reader Target Demographics Document: Use this file to compare your intended audience with the agents' specialties.

• Thematic Intent Document: Highlight the central themes of your book to match them with agents who prioritize similar narratives.

Step 3: Use ChatGPT for Evaluation

Ask ChatGPT questions like:

• "Does [Agent Name] seem like a good fit for a literary/commercial fiction novel about family dynamics and caregiving?"

• "What should I emphasize in a query letter to [Agent Name], given their interest in emotionally resonant stories?"

ChatGPT can analyze the information and suggest whether the agent aligns with your work’s themes, tone, and genre. For example, you might input: "[Agent Name] prefers emotionally resonant and character-driven fiction. My novel, Holding On, explores caregiving and family dynamics—is this a good fit?" ChatGPT could respond by suggesting ways to emphasize these aspects in your query letter or highlighting how the agent’s interests overlap with your story’s themes. Additionally, it can help identify unique aspects of your story to highlight.

Example Prompt:

• "Based on [Agent Name]’s interest in emotionally rich, character-driven fiction, how can I best tailor a query for Holding On, my novel about siblings navigating their parents' final days?"

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3. Customizing Your Submission Package

Each agent often has unique submission requirements. Use QueryTracker’s data, supporting tools, and ChatGPT’s insights to tailor your materials.

Step 1: Review Submission Guidelines

1. Visit the agent’s website or QueryTracker profile to find their exact submission requirements (e.g., query letter, synopsis, sample chapters).

2. Take note of preferences, such as:

   • Length of the synopsis (e.g., one page or two pages).

   • Number of pages/chapters to include in your sample (e.g., first three chapters or 50 pages).

Step 2: Customize Your Query Letter

Use ChatGPT and supporting tools to polish your query letter and emphasize details relevant to the agent’s interests.

Example Query Letter Prompt:

"Draft a query letter for a literary agent interested in character-driven fiction, referencing my novel Holding On, which explores themes of caregiving, resilience, and family bonds."

Step 3: Adjust Supporting Materials

1. Ensure your synopsis follows the required length and focuses on the main plot and emotional stakes. For example, in Holding On, the synopsis should highlight the siblings’ journey of navigating their parents' final days while reconciling their own strained relationship, emphasizing moments like Rachel’s caregiving struggles and the bittersweet hospice Christmas celebration. Use the Story Outline Document to confirm the synopsis captures the novel’s key beats.

2. Format sample chapters according to standard industry guidelines:

   • Font: 12-point Times New Roman

   • Spacing: Double-spaced

   • Margins: 1-inch on all sides

   • Header: Include your last name, book title, and page number.

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4. Using Supporting Documents for Customization

Supporting documents can streamline your submissions process and ensure all materials are tailored to the highest standard. Among them, the Story Outline Document is particularly critical, as it ensures your synopsis and query highlight the novel’s key beats and emotional stakes—elements that often determine an agent’s interest. Here’s how:

• Reader Target Demographics Document: Cross-reference the intended audience of Holding On with agents who specialize in reaching that demographic.

• Key Plot Threads Document: Use this to ensure your query and synopsis highlight the most compelling aspects of your story.

• Writing Style Summary Document: Articulate your narrative tone and style, especially if an agent’s profile emphasizes a preference for voice-driven fiction.

• Emotional Impact Goals Document: Align the emotional experience you want readers to have with agents who prioritize those experiences in their representation.

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5. Tracking Submissions on QueryTracker

Step 1: Log Your Submissions

1. After submitting to an agent, log the submission in QueryTracker.

2. Include details such as the date of submission, response time, and any feedback received.

Step 2: Monitor Agent Responses

1. Use QueryTracker’s "Reports" feature to check average response times for agents.

2. Be patient and professional while waiting for a reply.

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6. Summary of Tools

Core Tools

1. Query Letter: Tailor this to highlight themes and details relevant to each agent’s preferences.

2. Synopsis: Provide a concise summary of your novel’s plot and stakes.

3. Sample Chapters: Format these per industry standards and agent guidelines.

Supporting Documents

1. Reader Target Demographics Document: Matches your audience with agents’ specialties.

2. Thematic Intent Document: Articulates the themes of your novel to better align with agent interests.

3. Key Plot Threads Document: Ensures you emphasize the strongest elements of your plot.

4. Writing Style Summary Document: Demonstrates the voice and tone of your novel.

5. Emotional Impact Goals Document: Frames your novel’s emotional resonance to appeal to agents seeking deeply felt stories.

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Using QueryTracker.net in combination with ChatGPT and supporting tools can help you craft personalized submissions while staying organized. Start exploring QueryTracker today, and use these tools to prepare a polished and tailored submission package that resonates with agents. Good luck on your querying journey, and feel free to share your experiences—we can all learn from one another in this process! Best of luck on your publishing journey!