How to Write a Letter to the Editor

Letters to the Editor is one of the most widely read sections in a newspaper. Responding to an editorial or article that’s published in your local paper is a good way to express yourself about the issue of the uninsured.

These tips will help:

1. Link to current news. Editors are interested in printing feedback from stories recently published in their papers.
2. Make one clear argument. The piece should be in favor of or critical of a particular position taken by a paper or described in an article.
3. Be specific. The letter should focus on a specific issue that was raised in an article or opinion piece.
4. Cite the article. Be sure to mention the title and date of the article you’re responding to in one of your first two sentences. For example “Dear Editor, Your recent coverage of the medical malpractice issue was a thoughtful piece…”
5. Stay calm. One exclamation point per letter. Don’t attack anyone personally, stick to the facts, and keep the letter respectful.
6. Be brief. Generally, four-to-six paragraphs are ideal. If you can’t contain the piece to that length, consider writing an op-ed instead.
7. Follow-up. If you have sent your letter to the editor and haven’t heard anything within a week, make a follow-up call to check on its status. Be aware that editors receive hundreds of letters and may not immediately respond to you.

Remember, you must include your name, address, and daytime phone number in your letter. Instructions for submitting a letter to the editor are usually at the bottom of the page where they appear or on the paper’s website. Find out from your local paper the best way to send a letter. Some papers like them mailed; others prefer faxes, while others favor e-mails.