How to Send a Letter to the Editor

Writing a letter to an editor of a newspaper, magazine or other publication can be a way to convey an idea or make a suggestion and make yourself part of the publication process. Proper attention to style and etiquette when doing this are important. Following some basic steps ensures that your words are articulately and respectfully conveyed.

Instructions

1. Know your facts. If you disagree with something that was stated in an article and believe it to be incorrect, be sure that it is before you write to the editor. Research the topic, obtain the necessary documentation and have references available to include if applicable.

2. Structure your letter properly. Follow Modern Language Association (MLA) or American Psychological Association (APA) format guidelines for writing formal and business letters. This makes your letter appear more professional and it is more likely be treated with serious consideration.

3. Organize your thoughts. Draft several copies of your letter before writing the final version to ensure that the information you are conveying is being presented in a logical sequence that is easy to understand. It may be helpful to have an objective third party proofread your letter to the editor to gain constructive criticism.

4. Use the strongest and most important defense possible if disagreeing with or refuting something stated in the editor's publication. A single argument that is succinct and irrefutably proven is be more effective than several arguments that are not entirely on topic.

5. Include documentation. If you have sources that support your statement or argument, use them and cite them properly. This makes the editor aware that you researched the topic of your letter and also allows them to review the pertinent information firsthand.

6. Be polite. Even if the reason for your letter to the editor is to disagree with a statement or opinion that they have made, an overly aggressive or negative approach seems more like an attack than a well thought out and researched rebuttal and will not be taken as seriously.

7. Check spelling and grammar of the final version of your letter to the editor. Most computer word processing programs have this feature readily available. If you are writing your letter to the editor by hand, ask another person to read it over for you or use a dictionary to verify the spellings of any words you are not certain are spelled correctly.