Then, the logline for the project. This is THE MOST IMPORTANT PART OF THE QUERY. People always ask what made me request a script. It is ALWAYS the logline. Not contest wins, not a cool backstory. None of that matters if the script sounds boring or derivative. 14/

Contest wins (esp. prominent contests) and/or cool backstory may tip the balance if a logline sounds somewhat interesting but not undeniable. But I've never seen a boring logline and then requested the script because they won a contest. 15/

For better or worse, execs at studio & prodcos DO NOT CARE about contest wins. They only care about the concept for a script -- can they get it made? They get a dozen scripts a week, so they have to WANT to read this one above those others. Hence, concept is king. 16/

As well, ONLY SEND ONE LOGLINE. That's it. Focus on your most relevant project for this rep. But your best foot forward. We don't want to read five different loglines. Just the one that you really want us to consider. Sending more makes you look unprofessional and indecisive. 17/

After the logline, you can put any relevant contests wins or attachments (if any.) But if you don't have any, it's not a big issue whatsoever. Again, the logline is the largest determining factor in whether I want to request to read a script. 18/

Overall, I would focus on brevity and clarity. Don't put in any info that isn't necessary. Don't put in your entire life story or paragraphs of plot description. And close it with a polite thank you for consideration and your name. You're good to send. 19/

Now, a question that comes up a lot is how and when to follow up on queries you've sent to reps that weren't responded to. And, honestly, the answer is... don't. 20/

Please don't email weekly, monthly, etc. with the same query. Don't 'check in' over and over. I have a producer friend who's been emailed THE SAME QUERY LETTER every Wednesday for two years. If you didn't get a response, you already have your answer, unfortunately. 21/

If you do get a response requesting your script, it's standard to have you sign a release form before we can read the script. That's the legal norm and something you should be prepared for. 22/

After it's been sent, feel free to check-in respectfully after 2 weeks. I try to read requested material within that time frame. That said, we all have lots going on and need to focus on our existing clients, so don't be discouraged or insulted if it takes longer than that. 23/

If there is a situation that creates a time crunch, say another rep wants to sign you, feel free to email and note that, so the rep can prioritize the read. But unless it's a situation like that, I'd err on the side of letting them take their time (within reason.) 24/

I'm sure I must have inadvertently left out some aspect of queries, so feel free to ask on the thread below. Otherwise, hopefully, this info is helpful and now I can just reply back with this thread when I next get asked for query advice... END