What is it and How to Write it? (with 14+ Examples)

Do you feel strongly about something and would like to let people know what you think? Is there a social situation in your community that you would like addressed? If so, you can spread your message to a large audience by writing a letter to the editor of your favorite publication.

What Is a Letter to The Editor?

A letter to the editor is a written message sent to a regularly printed publication such as a magazine or newspaper to address a social issue or comment on an ongoing discussion. Its purpose is to declare your stand or inform the publication readers on a given topic by using facts and opinions to express your thoughts. Usually, letters to the editor are short, with most of them not exceeding 300 words.

The placement of a letter to the editor will often depend on the layout of the magazine. Most of them are placed in the first section of the publication or on the editorial page.

How to Write a Letter to the Editor

The following step by step guide will help you draft an effective letter to the editor:

Step 1: Use a Simple Salutation

Use the editor’s name if you know it, but if you don’t, a simple ‘To the Editor’ will do.

Step 2: Mention Your Reason for Writing

Editors are busy, and trying to build suspense in your letter could prevent it from getting published. Get straight to the point and use the first paragraph to outline your key point.

Step 3: Explain Your Stand

Not everyone shares your interests and beliefs, which means they might not get the importance of your letter. Use the second paragraph to convince them they should care.

Step 4: Suggest a Solution

Is there something anyone can do to remedy the situation? If so, outline your suggested solutions in the third paragraph and some reasons to back up your logic.

Step 5: Sign Off

While publications may withhold your identity upon request, they won’t print an anonymous letter. Always mention your name and include your contact information.

How to Submit Your Letter to the Editor

Submitting your letter to the editor is as easy as following these steps:

• Go to the publication’s website to get their submission email.
• Read the regulations provided for letters to the editor, including word count.
• Write your letter.
• Submit it.

Most print publications set up their material on a computer and print it straight from the software. This means that while you could send a postal letter, most editors prefer to receive letters via email. Such submissions make it easier for the publication to include your message without having to type it out.

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Letter to Editor Format

{Date}

The Editor

{Publication’s Name}

{Publication Company Address}

{City, State, Zip Code}

Re: {Reason for Writing}

To the editor,

I, {your name}, am a {state your title/position in the community, e.g., member of the Dade County community}. I am writing to {mention the issue you wish to address}.

{Explain the issue further and convince the reader that it is important to address it}.

{Suggest possible solutions for the problem}.

I am requesting that you highlight this issue in your {publication type} to generate public interest in it.

Sincerely,

{Your Name}

{Your Signature}

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Sample Letter to the Editor

22 April 2031

The Editor

Texan Chronicles

100 First Avenue

Houston, TX 90368

Re: Noise Pollution Near Local School

To the editor,

I, Jane Cooper, am the president of the Greenfields Elementary School Parents Association. I am writing to bring to your attention a noise problem that has cropped up in the Yellow River school district.

Two weeks ago, a construction company set up a shop next to Greenfields School, despite the area being a designated school district. The noise has been very distracting and has derailed learning at the school.

We have filed several noise complaints with the authorities but to no avail. I am, therefore, writing to you in the hopes that you will help generate public interest on this matter and bring an end to it.

Thank you for your time and consideration.

Sincerely,

Jane Cooper

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Letter to the Editor Examples

Letter to the editor examples are sample documents written in the format and language of an official letter to the editor. They represent the different reasons you may write to an editor and be used as a guide when drafting your message.

Letter to the Editor (Templates)

The ideal letter to the editor should be kept under 300 words. This is because most publications have policies on the length of such messages and give editors limited printing space. You should also place your most important points in the first paragraph in case the editor cuts parts from the bottom up.

When drafting your letter, try to refer to a recent article or event to make your message relevant. You can also make use of statistics and local stories. Finally, remember to include your contact information in case the editor has some questions.