Use this guide when you want a traditional publishing deal for a non-fiction book. Most non-fiction is sold on a proposal before the book is finished. Have your idea, a rough outline and at least one chapter drafted, and check each agent's or publisher's submission guidelines before you send anything.
Step by step
Write a sharp overview
In one to two pages, explain what the book is, who it is for, the problem it solves and why now. Open with the strongest hook you have. Include a working title and subtitle that make the subject clear.
Describe the market and competition
Describe your readers and where they already look for information. List several comparable recent titles and explain briefly how yours is different or better. Avoid claiming there is no competition, which suggests there is no market.
Show your platform and credibility
Explain why you are the right author, including relevant experience, qualifications and existing audience such as a newsletter, speaking or professional network. Be factual; do not inflate numbers.
Outline every chapter
Give each chapter a title and a paragraph summarising its main point and content. The outline should show a clear journey for the reader. Include an estimated word count and delivery time for the full manuscript.
Polish sample chapters
Include the sample the guidelines ask for, often the introduction and one or two chapters. These must be your best writing and properly edited. They prove you can deliver what the overview promises.
Tailor and submit
Research agents or publishers who handle your type of book. Follow their guidelines exactly and personalise your covering letter. Keep a submission log with dates, responses and any feedback.
Ready-to-use checklist
- Overview with clear hook
- Target reader defined
- Comparable titles listed
- Author credentials stated honestly
- Chapter-by-chapter outline
- Sample chapters edited
- Submission guidelines checked
- Submission log started
Practical tips
- Ask someone who reads in your subject area to review the proposal before you send it.
- Keep the proposal as one tidy document with consistent headings and page numbers unless guidelines say otherwise.
- Submit in small batches so you can improve the proposal if the early responses show a pattern.
Common problems
I do not have a large audience.
Focus on your expertise, access to readers through your work or community, and a clear plan for reaching them. A small, relevant audience is worth describing honestly.
Agents say the idea is too similar to existing books.
Sharpen your angle, for example a narrower audience, a more practical format or fresh research, and rewrite the overview around that difference.
I keep getting no reply.
Check you are targeting agents who represent your subject, that your opening page is strong and that you followed the guidelines. Many agents do not reply to every submission.