A LETTER TO THE EDITOR

What is a letter to the editor?

A letter to the editor is a letter in which the reader expresses his or her opinion
about a recent publication or about an issue of concern. You can probably think
of many more specific reasons why you might want to write to the editor.
Perhaps you are angry or shocked about something and want other readers to
know it. Or you think that an issue is so important that you have to write about
it. Maybe you want to suggest a new idea, persuade others to take action or
educate the general public on a specific topic.

Letters to the editor are found in the first section of newspapers or in the
editorial page.

What is the format?

You must write your full name, address, daytime telephone number, an email
address and the date at the top of the letter in the right hand corner.
How shall I write my letter?

There are a few golden rules you should follow: write clearly, be concise and get to the point.

a) Follow the word length established (ex. 100 words minimum). Write three-four
paragraphs.

b) Avoid the following: Do not use slang, contractions or phrasal verbs. Colloquialisms are
best avoided. Do not repeat yourself. Stick to the facts.

c) Begin your letter with Dear Editor or To the Editor. If you know the editor’s name,
however, use it in your letter.

d) Paragraph 1. Explain what you are writing about. State the problem or issue that
concerns you.

e) Paragraph 2. Explain why the issue is important. Tell how the problem or issue affects you
or others, or tell what will happen if something isn’t done.

f) Paragraph 3. Tell why this is good or bad. Explain your view about why the particular
action or comment is good or bad.

g) Paragraph 4. Say what should be done, by who and when.

h) Sign the letter.

Look at the example:

fcabanillasa@escolagoar.cat

,
BEGINNING YOUR LETTER TO THE EDITOR
(ex. Managing Director)
Include a closing phrase. At the very end of your letter, include a simple “Yours
sincerely” (if you know the person’s name you are writing to)” or “Yours faithfully” (if
you don’t know the person’s name you are writing to)”, followed by a comma (,).