Here are some basic rules on writing to a letter to the editor –
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Keep it short (about 150 -200 words)
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Keep to the point with short snappy sentences (One idea per sentence)
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If you are replying to something already written then briefly restate the point you are commenting on at the beginning of your letter
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If you can, support your argument with facts or expert opinion
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Show your strong feelings but avoid personal abuse or sweeping generalisations
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Be your own editor: Read what you have written critically. Does it make sense? Revise to clarify the meaning. Cross out all unnecessary words. Read it again. Keep it active: ‘the boy ran up the hill’ is better than ‘the hill was run up by the boy’.
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Supply your name, postal address and daytime phone number
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Send it by email, fax or post. Sending it by email or fax saves time which can be important. If the editor thinks the time has passed then s/he won’t publish even the best of letters.
