How to Write a Letter to the Editor

Letters to the editor are relatively easy to compose and you have an opinion to offer! If you have a specific point to make or want to rebut an inaccurate news report or column, you should really write a letter to the editor of a newspaper or magazine.

Some tips:

• Make sure that the outlet you are targeting publishes letters to the editor, and read any guidelines that they provide. 
• Keep it short: LTEs are typically under 300 words.
• While national papers will print letters from around the country, your letter is much more likely to be printed in a smaller paper that receives fewer submissions.
• Keep it direct. Use simple language and emphasize one point. Frame your idea with an argument and evidence.
• Include a strong personal or compelling story to hook readers.
• When possible, frame your letter as a response to the newspaper’s coverage of the story or current news issue/controversy.
• Keep it local. Readers will give your ideas more attention if you are able to explain how your argument affects the area. For example, rather than saying “Cuts to higher education will mean that students will have fewer opportunities,” try saying “Cuts to Springfield State University in our own town will mean fewer class sections and dramatically larger classes for our children here in Springfield.”
• Include contact information. Most papers will verify before they publish.

Keep in mind that when news outlets receive many letters on a topic, they will typically run one or two. Even if your letter is not the one printed, it helps convince editors that the topic is worth covering. The same may apply to their topic assignments to reporters.

Things to Avoid:

• Avoid acronyms (spell out any name the first time you use it, followed by the acronym in parentheses).
• Don't assume that a general audience is familiar with concepts like shared governance or academic freedom. Clearly explain the issue for layman readers.
• Don't use all capital letters, bold text, or lots of exclamation points. It will not be printed that way and may prevent your letter from consideration.

About Magazines

• Lengths for letters in magazines vary widely; look for guidelines and at the letters printed in the publication.
• Consider the typical reader of the publication, and keep them in mind when writing.