How to Write a Letter to the Editor

We don't always like what we read in magazines, newspapers and online media. Sometimes, we love the article and want to add our two cents. If you have something to say, say it! Here are a few easy steps to help you write to an editor of a publication.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Fax Machines
• Printers
• Magazine Subscriptions
• Newspaper Subscriptions
• Postage Stamps
• Envelopes
• Notebook Papers
• Pens
• Computers
• Pens

1. Pick a topic that you feel passionate about. Relate it to an issue very recently discussed in the publication to which you are writing.

2. Think of new ways to discuss the topic and present unique solutions to the problem.

3. Write clearly and concisely following the limitations usually given on the editorial page or letters-to-the-editor page.

4. Include your major points within the first few paragraphs.

5. Type your letter and double space between lines.

6. Use your spell check and then proofread.

7. Sign your name and include your phone number and address if required.

8. Mail, fax or e-mail your letter to the address listed for the publication.

9. Keep in mind that most publications verify by phone or in writing that you, and not someone attributing these opinions to you, authored the letter.

Tips & Warnings

• If you don't want your name published, emphasize this outside the body of the letter, either before the letter, following the letter, or both places.
• Publications rarely edit and, instead, select well-written and grammatically correct letters. Make it easy to publish yours.
• If your letter is going to be shortened, it will usually be the final paragraphs, so don't save your point for the end.

[publishaletter]

on 4/7/2009 Here are some pointers on how to write a letter to the editor from PublishaLetter.com: * Make reference to the subject Mention the article or the editorial. * Keep the letter focused Gather your thoughts and keep it on one subject. Too many points will reduce the impact * Make it stand on its own It should make sense to people that have not read the original article * Keep it original Publications want original submissions. So, no mass mailings. * Make it general and prose only Do not send poetry, thank you or other correspondence of a personal nature. * Keep it short Most publications limit the letters to 150 to 250 words. * Make it quick News goes stale very quickly. So submit your letter as quickly as possible. * No attachments. Most publications do not allow attached documents. * Mention credentials. * If you have

[TDaniels]

on 11/18/2008 It could be helpful if people actually think of what they are saying because, some people complain about our government and some say write a articale on a website or a newspaper and i barley know anything about writing a letter to the editor online or on a piece of paper!!!

[saveme]

on 10/21/2008 I would like to know how to go about getting someone to listen in helping people in getting a second chance in life.Society has a way of not careing about people that have made mistakes in their lives,but have corrected them and want to stay on the right track,but don't know where to turn.It's hard to get a job,it's hard to just survive,and i like to know how we can make this piture right,because we are human being to ,we just made a mistake just like everybody else.Please help me in changing this problem from a negative one to a positive one.

[saveme]

on 10/21/2008 I would like to know how to go about getting someone to listen on the topic of second chances.There are so many people out here they would love to get a second chance in life.But society doesn't see it that way.You can't get a job,can't get help in any kind of way,and you wonder why we have so many people in jail or on drug,not because that's what they want to do,but when society look at you like a nobody then that's how you start thinking of yourself.I need to know how can i help in changes someone life for the better,not only will be helping others but also myself,help me into finding a solution to this problem.

[fsawwf]

on 9/22/2008 This isn't helpful... I dont understand how such a website can even be published. Not everybody wants to write an article for the newspaper. We need stuff we can use for school. Something like what kind of sentences should we use or details... Get the point?