
If the letter is rude, it may not be printed, but even if it is printed, it may put off the very people the writer is trying to reach. It should show respect for another opinion while clearly stating a different one. If the letter is expressing an opposite opinion, it should not attack the other side.The whole letter should remain relevant and compelling. This means the first sentence should have an interesting fact or make a strong statement. The letter should grab the reader’s attention.No newspaper will knowingly print inaccurate information. Brevity also shows confidence on the part of the sender. It can be up to 300 words, but letters of 50 to 150 words have a better chance of being printed. It should not ramble or bring in too many examples. The letter should be very clear about one main point.Some newspapers will print anonymous letters but most will not. The newspaper may call the sender to verify that he or she actually wrote the letter. The sender’s contact information should be included in the letter.Many newspapers will accept letters for two to four weeks after publication, but if the letter is sent quickly, it stands a better chance of being printed. The letter should be timely and sent within a day after the article in question was published.Here are some points the sender should consider before writing a letter to the editor: This will give the sender an idea of what type of letter is selected for printing. It is recommended for the sender to read other letters to the editor in the paper they have chosen. In many cases, letters that don’t adhere to these guidelines will be discarded. A letter to the editor may be printed in the paper if it follows a few guidelines that will help make it a compelling communication.Įach publication has guidelines for accepting email letters to the editor. They have the opportunity of reaching a wide audience. This is one reason why it is a good place for readers to express their opinion or viewpoint about a story they read in the paper. After the front page of a newspaper, most people read the editorial page.


Letters to the editor have existed for centuries as a forum for public comment or debate.
