How to Write a Letter to the Editor.
Whether you want to praise, criticize, vilify,
or show off, make sure you're taken seriously
by using discipline and clarity in your editorial
letter.
Change the world one letter at a time.
You will need Accurate information Research
Clarity of purpose Internet access Wit Self-awareness
Local appeal Respect Rationality and patience.
Step 1.
Identify the article or subject with which
you want to take issue, including dates for
reference and fact checking.
Include your address, phone number, and e-mail
address in your letter's header so that your
piece has a chance of being published.
Don't alienate your readers by attacking anyone.
This is a public dialogue.
Step 2.
Review newspaper editorial pages or online
letters to pluck good ideas or emulate tone
and style.
Decide if you are praising someone's actions,
writing a complaint letter, or correcting
bad information.
Don't expect miracles.
Be happy that you were able to spout your
message unaltered for public consumption.
Step 3.
Write a brief, intelligent, and easy to understand
composition of 150 words.
Pick one specific reason the topic deserves
discussion.
Step 4.
Show your wit and be yourself, so that the
reader is comfortable considering your argument.
Find original ways to get the point across
with your own fresh perspective.
Step 5.
Write the letter only for this audience and
publication rather than broadening your message
for wider consumption.
Local appeal is a significant factor in getting
it in the paper.
Step 6.
Propose a respectful and rational resolution
in the last paragraph.
Invite the reader to support your cause without
sounding like a salesman.
Step 7.
Wait before submitting another piece.
Editors want their editorial letters to vary.
If your letter is not printed within a couple
weeks, send it to another paper.
Keep trying to get your voice heard!
Did you know Founded by Ben Franklin, _The
Saturday Evening Post_ is the oldest American
magazine, dating back to 1728.
