Hundreds of indignant readers write letters to the editor after reading a feature article or editorial in a newspaper or magazine. Very few of these letters end up in print. The following suggestions from editors and publishers themselves will increase the chances that the letter you submit will be selected for publication.
- Address your letter and envelope to a specific editor on the publications masthead-the managing editor or the department editor in the subject area discussed, such as, sports, entertainment, or local news.
- Make sure you have the right address if the publication has more than one office.
- Send your letter as soon as possible after the publication. Fax or modem it, if available.
- Identify the specific issue, date, and location of the story that motivates your letter.
- If the subject is controversial, make it clear in the first sentence which side you are on.
- Stick to the point.Suppress any urge to ramble or overstate your opinion.
- Be as brief as possible. A powerful short letter will win out over any articulate of tomes.
- Proof read your letter carefully to avoid typos and errors or otherwise give the impression your letter was written to hastily or emotionally.
- Identify yourself. Provide valid reasons why you speak with knowledge and authority.
- If you should prefer to remain anonymous should your letter be printed, give a sound reason for the request.
Editors encourage responses to the items, stories, and features they publish." Letters to the Editor" are the most widely read of any publication. Opposing views and out-and-out controversy are at the heart of ongoing dialog on important issues reported in the news. But editors insist on responses that are factual, tightly written, and provocative. Meet these requirements and speak your mind, and your chances of being published will greatly improve.
