Tips for Writing Effective Letters

A letter to the editor (LTE) is a great way to reach a large number of people in the community and educate on a subject that may notbe adequately  covered in the local news.

The LTE section of the newspaper is read more frequently than any other and is often perceived as a highly credible display of mainstream community or public sentiment by legislators and other important readers. LTE's cost nothing except a small investment of time and thought.

1. Contact the newspaper by phone or on the web. Many LTE's can be easily and efficiently sent via the newspapers web page. See the editorial section for directions. If your paper does not have a web page call them and find out to whom the letter should be sent.

2. Be concise and stick to the subject. LTE's are usually short (200 - 300) words and stick to one topic.

3. Don't assume readers will know what you are talking about. If you are writing about pending legislation, explain what that legislation is, what its effects will be and when it will be decided. If you are writing in response to an article or editorial, start your letter by saying which article you are responding to and when it appeared.

4. Use your credentials. If you have personal experience or expertise in the subject area, mention it. This gives credence and authority to your statements.

5. Concentrate on the local angle. Newspapers are community-based endeavors. The LTE column is where they interact with the community most directly. Any local angel on the subject you are writing about will increase the impact of your letter and increase its chances for publication.

6. Follow up. Call to make sure the paper received your letter, and then call a few days later if it has not been printed to find out if it will be printed. If they tell you it is not going to be printed, ask why so you can incorporate changes into your next attempt