Here's why:
* Agents and publishers are looking for potential. They want to see a compelling concept and strong writing, even if the book isn't finished.
* Feedback can be invaluable. An agent or publisher can offer valuable feedback on your work, helping you to refine your story, characters, and writing style before you complete the entire manuscript.
* It can save you time and effort. If you complete a full manuscript and then find out it doesn't meet the expectations of agents and publishers, you've wasted a lot of time and energy.
However, there are some things to consider:
* You need a solid foundation. Don't contact an agent or publisher with just a vague idea or a few chapters. You should have a clear outline of your story, well-developed characters, and a strong beginning.
* Be prepared to provide a sample. Many agents and publishers will only consider queries from authors who have a substantial portion of their manuscript finished.
* It's not always easy. Getting an agent or publisher to look at an unfinished manuscript can be challenging. You'll need a strong query letter and a compelling sample to pique their interest.
Ultimately, the best approach is to tailor your strategy to your individual circumstances and the specific agent or publisher you're contacting.
Here are some additional resources to help you decide:
* Query Shark: https://queryshark.blogspot.com/
* Writer's Digest: https://www.writersdigest.com/
* Agent Query Letter Guide: https://www.agentquery.com/
* Publishing Process: https://www.writers.org/publishing/
Remember, getting published takes time and effort. Be patient, persistent, and don't be afraid to ask for help along the way!