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Tips for Effective Letters
1. Be concise. Keep your letter to under 250 words.
If it is too long, your most important point may be cut.
Newspapers reserve the right to edit letters before publication.
2. Make timely comments. If you are responding to an
article or opinion piece, submit your letter as soon
as possible. What matters to an editor now, may not matter
next week.
3. Focus. The first sentence of your letter should explain
why you are writing. Make it as easy as possible for
the editorial staff and readers to understand the purpose
of your letter.
4. State your point. Following your opening sentence,
try to summarize your issue/argument, correction, or
additional information in the next sentence.
5. Use plain language. Easy-to-understand
language ensures your message will not be misunderstood.
6. Close Strong. Use your
last sentence to make a strong statement.
7. Provide Contact
Information: Always include your
name and contact information (Address, Phone Number,
E-mail): The easier it is for an editor to contact you,
the better your chances of having your letter published.
Newspapers will not publish your phone number or email.
8. Check: Proofread and
check your spelling. Also review the guidelines for each
newspaper to ensure that your letter conforms.
9. Submitting Letters
by E-mail: Be sure to include
Letter to the Editor in the subject line of your e-mail.
10. Follow Up: Call the
paper to make sure they received your submission.
11. Once your letter has been published,
please let us know!
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