Do Literary Agents Need a Complete Manuscript Before Representing an Author?

The answer to this question is not a one-size-fits-all solution. Whether or not literary agents require a complete manuscript can vary depending on the individual agent or agency. It's crucial for authors to check the agent's website and guidelines to ensure they have followed all requirements.

What Does the Agent’s Website Say?

Before submitting your manuscript, it's essential to review the agent or agency’s website thoroughly. Look for specific guidelines and follow them meticulously. Failing to adhere to submission guidelines could result in a rejection. Some agents might require the complete manuscript as part of the submission package, while others might only need the first ten pages, a query letter, and a summary.

For New Authors: A Complete Manuscript is Recommended

As a new author, it's highly beneficial to complete the manuscript even if the agent initially doesn’t ask for it. Proving your reliability and the ability to finish what you start is crucial. It's also imperative to write a summary that includes the ending of the book, rather than leaving it open-ended or suggesting the reader ask for more.

Requirements for Different Types of Manuscripts

For non-fiction manuscripts, agents typically prefer a detailed outline or proposal rather than the full book. However, for fiction authors, a complete manuscript is usually more beneficial. Some agents might be open to reading a self-published work, and then may ask to read the first 50-100 pages of your current work. Each agent has different preferences and requirements, so make sure to read and follow them closely.

Proving Your Ability to Finish a Book

A common requirement for new authors is to prove they can finish a book. Many writers start their manuscripts but struggle to complete them. Therefore, submitting a complete manuscript is often seen as evidence of your capability to see your work through to the end.

The Query Letter and First Chapters

Your initial contact with an agent should begin with a query letter. If your query letter impresses the agent, they may request the first 2-3 chapters to read. To help you craft an effective query letter, check out the following guide: How to Write a Query Letter That Gets Manuscript Requests by Jane Friedman.

By carefully reviewing submission guidelines, providing a complete manuscript when possible, and crafting a compelling query letter, authors can increase their chances of securing representation from a literary agent.