Commonly asked questions:

What is a one sheet?

A one sheet is a one-page flyer that gives information about you, your career, and your work in progress.

Why do I need one?

For me, the one sheet is a wonderful visual aid to my presentation. In addition, if I forget a relevant detail or freeze up and forget my entire pitch, I can rely on my one sheet to provide me with the information I need to present to an editor. Even if I never take it out of my briefcase, the discipline of preparing the one sheet helps me to focus in on my storyline and condense the information down into a managable, concise few paragraphs that can be clearly conveyed to the editor.

What information should I include?

You should give all the information that you would present in a well written query: Title, author byline, genre, length, intended audience and several paragraphs highlighting the major plot points. In addition, you should include a few paragraphs about you and your career, giving details about your education and experience. I also like to add my picture alongside my bio. If the editor takes the one sheet with him, having my picture at his fingertips helps keep my face and presentation fresh in his memory. Finally, include thorough contact information. Your address, phone numbers, fax, e-mails, and Web site URL. When that editor wants to contact you to request your manuscript, he'll have half a dozen ways to contact you.

Will the editor want to take my one sheet with him/her?

Maybe. Maybe not. That will depend upon the editor and the situation. If the editor is meeting with 100 people during the conference, he will probably ask you to mail information to his office because 100 extra pieces of paper can be cumbersome when added to luggage or a briefcase. However, if the editor lives near the conference facilities, or if he is particularly interested in your work, he may ask to take your one sheet home with him. Be flexible and follow the editor's lead.

Click here for a Sample One Sheet.

Tips:

Microsoft Word offers newsletter templates, which I use as a basis for formatting my One Sheets. The templates are already formatted with great colors and designs. I choose one that is appropriate for the mood and personality of my novel and import my information.