I’ve heard the agent search can take a long time, so I’d like to get a head start. Do you have to finish writing a book before querying agents?
Yes. For debut fiction authors, you should complete your manuscript before trying to pitch it to agents. When you send a query letter to an agent, you’re basically presenting a short summary of the book in an attempt to interest the agent in representing you. If the agent likes the sound of your story and writing based on your query, he will ask you for either a partial (anywhere from 20 to 100 pages) or the full (the complete manuscript). Even if he asks for the partial, if he likes that, he’ll want to see the full next. So if you’re not done yet, and an agent is excited about your work and wants to see it, you’ve just wasted his time, because you don’t have anything to show him yet. Now you’re rushing to finish it, or backpedaling, and probably missing your chance at working with that agent. Yes, sometimes it does take a while to find the right agent for you and your work. But sometimes it only takes a few days. Be prepared and professional! Finish your work and make it the best you
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