How to write a presubmission inquiry
Educational resource · Updated September 2026
A presubmission inquiry is a short email asking whether the topic and article format are potentially appropriate before you invest time in reformatting or a full submission.
When it is useful
- Your manuscript sits between specialties.
- The article type is unusual or not clearly listed.
- The journal scope looks plausible but not obvious.
- You have a time-sensitive application cycle and want to avoid a predictable scope rejection.
Keep the email short
You usually need the article title, manuscript type, a direct question about interest/scope, and the abstract. Do not turn the inquiry into a cover letter.
Template
Dear Dr. [Editor],
I hope this email finds you well.
I apologize in advance for the unsolicited email. Below is the abstract for my [manuscript type], “[Article Title].” I would really appreciate your feedback as to whether this would be something [Journal] would be interested in publishing. Thank you for your time, and I look forward to hearing your feedback. Have a great rest of the day.
“[Abstract]”
Best regards,
[Name, degrees]
[Institution]
[Email]
Before sending
Verify that the named editor and email are current, and confirm that the journal does not require presubmission inquiries through a formal portal instead of direct email.