Writer’s clips are clippings, photocopies, or links to articles featuring a writer’s work, often presented with a cover letter or resume when submitting work for publication. Relevant and quality clips are important, as some publications only work with previously published writers. New writers should avoid working for free and focus on building trust with paid clips.
The term writer’s clip comes from the practice of collecting clippings from newspapers and magazines in which a writer’s work has been published. Writer clips are also known as “torn sheets,” denoting pages ripped directly from publications that feature a writer’s work. However, writer clips can also be photocopies of published works, such as copies of pages from an anthology.
Writer clips can also include links to articles or entire articles that have been posted online. Some freelance writers also create personal websites filled with clips of the writer and direct editors to their sites to review previously published works. Such a website may contain links, full articles, and a list of print publications in which the writer has been featured. Writer clips or a link to a writer’s website are usually sent along with a cover letter or application when a writer submits work for publication.
When a freelancer submits work, they should tell the editor something about their writing experience, education, and knowledge of the subject. This information is usually presented in a cover letter or resume. A query may also be included, which is basically a survey to see if the writer’s work is suitable or of interest for publication. Along with these items, the writer’s clips are also presented, so that the editor can get an idea of the writer’s skill, knowledge, and writing style.
A freelance writer may only have one shot at making a good impression, so it’s important to provide quality writer clips when submitting work for possible publication. It’s best to submit clips of the writer that are relevant to the article the freelancer hopes to have published, whenever possible. Writer clips are far better than just writing samples. In fact, some publications, both online and in print, will only work with previously published writers.
While there are publications that work with new writers, the pressure to pick up writers’ clips often leads beginning freelancers to work for free just to get a few editorial credits under their belt. New writers should think twice before doing this since clips from paid writers not only make a better impression but also build trust.
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