Writing Effective Letters to Editors
Letters to the editor are an easy way for you to voice your opinion to policymakers and to educate people in your community about issues, which concern you. You can use letters to correct or interpret facts in response to an inaccurate or biased article, to explain the connection between a news item and those issues, or to praise or criticize a recent article or editorial. Without exception, the letters section is one of the most highly read segments of newspapers (and magazines -- don't forget magazines).
The following tips will help you increase your chances of getting published:
- Know The Letters Policy: Find out the publication's policy for printing letters. Some have length limitations, some want letters to be typewritten and almost all require that you include your name, address and phone number. (Your address and phone number will not be printed; most publications call you before they print your letter to confirm that you really did write the letter and that you want to have it published.) If you don't see the letters policy in the letter section, don't be afraid to call.
- Be Timely: Responding to a recent article, editorial or op-ed piece is one of the best ways to increase your chances of getting published. (Be sure to mention the name of the article and the date it was published.) You can also capitalize on recent news events or anniversaries. For example, you might use the anniversary of Earth Day as an opportunity to write about important environmental issues. Or you can write to inform citizens how their legislators voted on a recent environmental issue.
- Keep It Simple: Keep your points short and clear, stick to one subject, and try to keep your letters to three or four paragraphs. Make sure your first sentence is short, compelling and catchy. Don't be afraid to be direct, engaging and even controversial.
- Get Personal: Editors are more likely to publish a letter if it has local relevance.
- Use local statistics: A letter on the Clean Water Act should point out how many rivers and lakes are unsafe for swimming in your community or your state.
- Use personal stories: If you or someone in your family has become ill from contaminated drinking water, say so in a letter about the Safe Drinking Water Act.
- Use names: Congressional aides say that if a letter to the editor mentions a Representative's or Senator's name, the legislator will see it. They care about how they are being perceived at home, and they will pay attention. Also urge readers to let their elected officials know their views.
- Use your credentials: If you have expertise in some area you are writing about, say so!
