Tips --- Publishing

   Your letter is more likely to be published if you keep it short and to the point.  Many newspapers state a limit of 200, 250, or 300 words.
   Include your full name, address, daytime phone number, and signature. The papers will only publish your name and city with your letter. Unsigned letters often go unpublished.
   Please understand, many letters are submitted and not all can be printed.  Many papers will not print letters from out of their serving area, however, unless stated I would send the letter anyway.

Tips --- Using this List

   When sending to more than one paper, I suggest sending individual e-mails rather than using the CC.  

   Click on the first E-mail box, your e-mail should come up.  Type out your letter, count your words and check your spelling.  Highlight your text, copy, then send.  You will then be able to paste the text into additional E-mails without retyping.

Writing The Letter 

   When inspired by a current event to write, do it then while the issue is still timely.  Put some style into your letter, using a catchy phrase.  Be sure your information is accurate.  Take note that the newspaper reserves the right to title your letter and to edit for space, grammar, and liability.  Being concise and to the point reduces the possibility that any editing will neuter the essence of your letter.  Back up your premise with facts, and check your sources especially when receiving information by forwarded email.  You are in competition for the letter space so be creative.

Click here for some examples of published letters.

Promoting Your Agenda

   When campaigning for a Conservative agenda with letters to the editor keep yourself to the agenda.  Writing letters of other agendas only serve to provide liberal editors the excuse for not publishing the conservative message.  Once a piece is published they need not print  another by you for two, three, four, or more weeks according to that paper's policy.   Within your agenda vary the subject, possibly providing a unique perspective.