How to write a letter to the Editor

One of the most widely read sections of any newspaper or magazine is the letters page. This is an effective way to share your views or opinions on a current issue which could create or extend a debate. Obviously, the more popular a publication, the more competition there is for letters to be published.

If several letters are received on a particular subject, usually only one or two will be published. Below are some guidelines on how to make your letter stand out and increase the chances of it being chosen for print.

What to write about

• Choose a relevant and recent issue that you can write about confidently, succinctly and with understanding.
• Editors want letters that introduce a new subject or a fresh opinion. If you are writing on a popular subject, offer an appropriate counter opinion or a view that has not yet been voiced; seek to advance the debate.

Writing Your Letter

• Letters are normally written for a specific publication. Before you begin writing, check the publication’s specifications for letters. Become familiar with the style of the newspaper or magazine, noting the typical length, tone and language of letters that are printed.
• Make sure your letter is simple and concise. Keep to a maximum of 150-200 words. Use short sentences and avoid long paragraphs. The shorter a letter, the more likely it is to be published. Editors will rarely edit letters, but if they are forced to shorten your letter, they could omit the one point you wanted to include!
• Have one point, and state it clearly in the first sentence or two.

Suggested format

• Refer to the article, letter or issue and state your reaction.
• Explain why you agree or disagree, including facts, personal experience or statistics to support your argument.
• Outline your credentials for speaking on this subject, e.g. personal experience, job title or position within a relevant organisation.
• Suggest action or repeat your main point.

Other Important Points

• If you are responding to a recently published letter or article, quote the headline and the date it was published in the first sentence of your letter.
• If an article is factually wrong or you disagree with the point being made, be sparing in your criticism. Instead, offer an alternative point of view, remembering that however incensed you feel, a letter putting forward a balanced case stands more chance of being printed than a confrontational response written in anger.
• Be aware of who your audience is and write accordingly. For example, if you are writing to a secular publication avoid Christian jargon or colloquialisms.
• Where letters are sent from an organisation, such as a local church or charity, standard practice dictates that they should be written by the head of the organisation, e.g. the National Director or Senior Pastor. This will ensure it is viewed as truly representative of the organisation.
• Entitle the letter, ‘Letter for Publication’, and send it to the address indicated.
• Type your letter, check that the spelling and grammar are correct, and make sure you meet any deadline specified. A newspaper will fill up its letters section throughout the day, and therefore, the earlier you contact a daily publication, the better chance you will have of your letter being published.
• Include your name, address and phone number, as some publications may want to verify that you are who you say you are.
• Keep a copy of your letter, so that you can refer to it if required.

What next?

• If your letter is not published, don’t give up! Look at letters on similar subjects that were published and examine how you could make future letters more effective.
• If your letter is published, keep a copy of it. Wait a few weeks before sending another letter to the same publication, because editors like to give as many people as possible a chance to air their opinions.
• Read a selection of sample letters.