Onomatopoeia is one of easiest to learn and use (but not spell). The definition of onomatopoeia is a word imitating a sound. For example; “buzz”, “moo” and “beep”. This can be used in a variety of ways giving reader a “hands on” feel.

One technique that you might be familiar with is alliteration. This procedure is used by starting three or more words with same sound. An example of this would be “The crazy crackling crops.” The three words don’t have to have exact same beginning to have this effect.

The next style is assonance. It is defined as a repetition of vowel sounds within syllables with changing consonants. This is also used in many different circumstances. One would be “tilting at windmills.” Notice vowels within each syllable sound same.

1. Never send a query without first looking at magazine's editorial calendar. By looking at editorial calendar, you can see immediately what topics editor will be most interested in, and when. Not all magazines publish an editorial calendar and some require that you request it via email. If you cannot find one on publication's website, and you find nothing that states they do not publish one, then send a short note to Editor asking if it is available and if so will they please send it to you.

2. Pay attention to publication's lead time. Most editorial calendars or writers' guidelines will tell you what their particular lead time is. Lead time is simply amount of advanced time that advertisements or articles must be submitted in order to be ready for publication in a particular issue.

So, if a magazine states their lead time is 3 months and you were looking for ideas to pitch to them in May, you would want to look at what topics they will be covering in September, October or November. You can pitch ideas that are further ahead on calendar as well, just remember that farther ahead you pitch, longer you may have to wait for payment.

3. Read publication. Most publications can be read partially or completely online now days, so there is no excuse for skipping this step. By reading several of their most recently published materials, you'll gain two critical advantages: A. You will not send in an idea that was recently covered doing so is an almost guaranteed way to have your query rejected. B. You will get a solid feel for publication's style. Crafting your query and article to their particular style is essential to getting published.