When you pick up the newspaper and open to the editorials, it is interesting to see what people write about. Some may complain about world events, while others cricitize the federal government. Occasionally, writers may mount a soapbox to promote their favorite cause or social agenda. A few may complain about the newspaper's slant in a recent story.
Whatever your reason for writing to the editor, keep in mind a few basic guidelines that can help to improve your chances of getting published:
1. Stick to one issue. Don't use your letter as a means of unburdening your soul on everything that has ever offended you. Focus on one issue and don't wander. For example, if winter potholes in city streets irritate you, say so. But don't broaden that to taxpayers' funds across the country or rural roads in Southeast Asia. Readers want to see pieces about very specific topics.
2. Type the letter rather than handwrite it. A typed letter is generally more readable and may hold the editor's attention longer than one in cursive print that is hard to read. Use traditional business letter format with a return address and date, inside address, subject line, salutation, the body or message, a closing, and your signature. Keep a copy for yourself, since editors may change phrasing or even cut your letter to make it fit available space. You don't want the reader to cut out a point that holds the rest of your letter together.
3. Offer a logical evaluation. Instead of ranting and raving, maintain a calm tone in assessing a situation, weighing both pros and cons. This approach tells readers (and the editor) that you are carefully thinking through an issue rather than foolishly lumbering through it. Show that you understand the original writer's position, assuming that you do, before making your counterpoint.
4. Avoid sarcasm and other belittling traits. There's no need to attack another writer if your argument is strong and based on logic rather than emotion. Show respect to alternative viewpoints while clearly outlining your own. Don't label, call someone names, or attack the writer's character. Simply show why the original perspective needs to be addressed through your viewpoint.
5. Make it succinct. There's no need to go page after page, since it may not get read and certainly won't be published. You can start with a long draft if you wish, then cut it back to no more than a page of typed print, about 300 to 400 words. Read it over carefully to omit repetition, unneeded phrases, and negative words. You may want to ask a spouse or friend to read the letter before mailing it or submitting by email.
Keep an eye on the newspaper for the next week or so to see if your piece gets published. You may not receive an acknowledgement that your piece was received or is being considered. If published, watch for follow-up pieces that respond to your letter and consider whether you wish to respond to these, mainly for needed correction or clarification.
