How to Write a Letter to the Editor That Gets Published (and Makes an Impact)
A well-crafted letter to the editor (LTE) is one of the simplest yet most effective ways to influence public discourse, hold leaders accountable, and push for change. Whether you want to counter misinformation, highlight an overlooked issue, or call for action, an LTE can amplify your voice and inspire others to get involved.
But with limited space and stiff competition, how do you write a letter that actually gets published? Here’s your step-by-step guide.
1. Keep It Short and Direct
Most newspapers have strict word limits, typically 150-250 words, so get to the point quickly.
A good LTE follows this structure:
✔ Strong Opening – Reference the article or issue and make your main point clear.
✔ Key Argument – Provide one strong argument with supporting facts or examples.
✔ Call to Action – End with a recommendation or statement of urgency.
📝 Example:
"Your recent article on voting rights ("State Moves to Restrict Mail-in Ballots," Jan. 28) exposes a serious issue, but the broader impact must be addressed. These restrictions disproportionately affect seniors and people with disabilities, making it harder for them to participate in elections. Lawmakers should protect, not suppress, access to the ballot."
2. Make It Timely
Letters are most effective when they respond to recent news. Ideally, submit within 24-48 hours of a relevant article’s publication. If responding to an ongoing issue, tie it to a recent event, policy change, or decision.
📅 Tip: If the moment has passed, look ahead—connect your letter to an upcoming vote, hearing, or policy shift.
3. Use Facts, But Keep It Personal
Citing a statistic or fact strengthens your argument, but don’t just throw numbers around. The best LTEs combine facts with personal perspective. If possible, share a personal story or local example to illustrate the impact.
📢 Example:
"As a former poll worker, I’ve seen how confusing rule changes create longer lines and discourage people from voting. These new restrictions will only make it worse."
4. Follow Submission Guidelines
Each publication has different requirements. Before submitting:
✅ Check the word count limit (usually on the newspaper’s website).
✅ Include your name, city, and contact info (many outlets require verification).
✅ Paste your letter directly into the submission form or email—no attachments.
✅ Some outlets won’t accept letters from advocacy groups, so check their policy.
📍 Where to Submit: Most local and national newspapers have an LTE section on their website. Some high-impact outlets include:
Your local newspaper
5. Send It to Multiple Outlets (If Allowed)
Some newspapers require exclusivity, meaning they won’t publish a letter that has appeared elsewhere. If that’s the case, send it to your top choice first. If you don’t hear back in a few days, try another outlet.
📬 Pro Tip: If exclusivity isn’t required, submit to multiple papers to increase your chances of publication.
6. Make It Easy for Editors to Say Yes
Avoid:
🚫 Personal attacks or rants
🚫 Overly complex or academic language
🚫 Trying to cover too many points
Do:
✅ Stay focused on one key argument
✅ Write in a clear, direct style
✅ Keep it engaging and solution-oriented
💡 Remember: Editors receive hundreds of letters. The easier yours is to read and publish, the better your chances.
7. Follow Up with More Action
Getting your LTE published is just the first step. Once it’s out there:
📣 Share it widely – Post it on social media and tag relevant policymakers.
📩 Send it to lawmakers – Your published LTE adds weight to advocacy efforts.
🗣 Use it as a talking point – Reference it when calling or emailing officials.
Take Action Now
1️⃣ Find a recent news article on an issue you care about.
2️⃣ Draft a 200-word LTE responding to it.
3️⃣ Submit it to your local or national newspaper this week.
Letters to the editor may seem small, but they have a real impact. They help shape public opinion, push media coverage, and put pressure on decision-makers. Your voice matters—use it.
🔥 Have you written an LTE before? Share your experience in the comments! Let’s build a community of engaged citizens who take action.