Tips for Effective Letters

1. Be Concise. Keep your letter to under 200 words. If it is too long, your most important point may be cut. Newspapers reserve the right to edit letters before publication. Our LTE form counts the words for you!
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. Target your audience. Be sure to submit your letter to your local paper. Use local examples where possible.
6. Use plain language. Easy-to-understand language ensures your message will not be misunderstood.
7. Close Strong. Use your last sentence to make a strong statement.
8. Check. Proofread and check your spelling. Also review the guidelines for each newspaper to ensure that your letter conforms.