Improve the Chance of Getting Your Letter Published

Here are some experience-based suggestions that will help you get your letters published.

1. Understand what issue you are responding to and be sure that your letter responds to it. Off the wall is off the wall!
2. Have something to say and think carefully about how you want to say it. This is the hardest part. Ask yourself: "What is it that I really want to say?" Try to make just one or two major points.
3. Edit your letter. Eliminate unnecessary words and look for ways to say it more powerfully. Editors count words. No matter what you submit, expect them to revise it. Try to pick a catchy title – but they usually will change that, too.
4. Always e-mail your letter – with a copy to yourself to keep track of it. Every newspaper will tell you (usually at the end of the letters section) where to send it.
5. If possible, respond the same day the article/editorial appears. Much later and you will be too late for consideration.
6. Above all, write from the heart – that is, with passion for the issue – but keep the tone of your letter factual and reasonable.
7. Expect lots of rejections. But, remember that newspapers always are looking for good letters to choose from.
8. Most newspapers have a section from the Letters Editor telling you what they want and how they want it. For example, they often require you indicate your name, address, and telephone number. Read and follow!
9. Finally, read some of the letters that your chosen newspaper already has printed to get a feel for what they are willing to print.
10. GOOD LUCK!!!