A lot of freelancers make the mistake of thinking that the publication they are pitching wants to know more about the writer than the topic being pitched. Please, understand that most publications are most interested in a quality subject that strongly pertains to their readers. Who you are matters little unless you are an expert in the matter and bring a large platform with you.

In researching markets to place in FundsforWriters, I read dozens of guidelines. Some are fantastic. Others are vague, expecting you to become intimate with the publication rather than just read a submissions page. This one with The Woodlands Magazine (see pitch guidelines for Volume 3 here) gives a fantastic step by step on pitching to them. In my opinion, the template fits for most magazines.

[Sentence 1] This is an attention-grabbing intro sentence that sets the stage for your story.

[Sentence 2] This sentence elaborates on and explains the intro sentence.

[Sentence 3-4] In this sentence, you explain the form the article will take and the main point it aims to make, like a thesis statement. You may add some other clarifying details about the main idea and why this story is interesting.

[Sentence 5] You explain in this sentence why you are interested in this story and why you have the authority to write it, as it relates to your experiences or identity.

[Sentence 6] You briefly list potential sources for the story, who you will talk to, how you will conduct interviews, and/or the research that will go into the story.

[Sentence 7] This sentence explains why this story fits in The Woodlands Magazine and particularly in the HOME/BODY issue.

[Sentence 8] You conclude with the form the piece will take (reported article, reported first-person essay, poem, photo essay, etc.).

In addition to being a writer who pitches, I am also an editor who receives pitches. You would be amazed at how many people want to talk about themselves as much or more than the topic they pitch. Such pitches wreak of arrogance. Just know that the editor reading your pitch cares most about their readers. Reach an editor with a well-designed story idea first and foremost. Then, maybe, you mention why you are the person to write it. And keep it very brief.