I'm 3/4 of the way through my screenplay. Now I need advice on query letters to agents...

[totalmisfit]

OK, i know it's gonna be nigh-on impossible to get an agent, considering i've never had anything published or sold, but i'm going to try anyway. This is the first piece of my writing i've ever seriously thought might be any good.

Problem is i'm having real trouble knowing how to disguise my lack of experience, when it comes to writing a short (3 line or thereabouts) biography in my initial enquiry letter. I mean, i have life experience, but i'm not really sure how to make any of it work in my favour. i've been a SAHM for nearly 3 years, and that's what's really prompted me to go back and try my hand at writing again, but that's not something a literary agent's going to give two hoots about, is it?

Anyone else had to do this?

[StephanieByng]

I'm not an expert but I strongly feel you shouldn't try and disguise lack of experience; there IS no disguising it, anyway is there?

Just believe in what you're sending and send it with confidence - forget the biography; the writing will speak for itself and it doesn't matter one bit what you do/have done; all that matters is what you're sending.

My non expert opinion anyway. My brother got an agent for his first book no probs, and she got it published, no probs; it CAN happen. Everyone has to start somewhere! Good luck.

[Litchick]

Every writer has to start somewhere - without any writing experience - but you don't need to flag it up. Just say nowt.
A biog is not worth putting in unless it actively sells you. Leave it out.
Concentrate on preparing an excellent synopsis and covering letter.
The latter should,if possible, include a non-fcition hook.
Eg my ten years of experience in the financial sector have been drawn upon to write this thriller set in the city.
Does that make sense?