
Letters to the Editor: Having Your Say
Writing a letter to your
newspaper’s editor is a privilege that Americans have exercised since the early days of journalism. You need not be an expert about the topic at hand, but by adding your voice to the discussi
on you can help shape people’s opini
ons positively and c
onstructively. Here are some tips to help you get your letter published:
1. Keep it short and sweet. Most
newspapers and ezines put limitati
ons
on the number of
words you can write. Generally, 200
words or less is comm
on although some
newspapers allow for up to 300
words. If you find these limitati
ons to be too c
onfining, c
onsider offering your thoughts to the editor via an “op-ed” piece.
2. Keep it “libel-free.” You can criticize some
one pers
onally, but you may not libel them. D
on’t expect your letter to receive the light of day if you slander or libel some
one. Free speech does have its limits.
3. Use your own
words. Sharp editorial staffs will recognize plagiarism in a moment. Speak from your heart, d
on’t quote others unless you are resp
onding specifically to an article or previously submitted letter to the editor.