* Most newspapers will only print original letters. Use sample letters as a starting point for your own message.

* Letters with a personal angle are always compelling. Ask yourself how this issue affects you and your family.

* Keep it brief and to the point. Letters under 250 words are much more likely to be published.
Following a few simple steps will increase the odds that your letter will be published.

* Keep it short. You should keep your letter under 200 words, arranged in at least two paragraphs. If your letter is too long, your most important point may be cut. Newspapers reserve the right to edit the letters they publish.

* Be timely. If you see an opportunity to respond to an article or opinion piece with a letter to the editor, write and submit your letter as soon as possible. What matters to the editor(s) this week, may not matter the next.

* Focus. The first sentence of your letter should explain why you are writing. Make it as easy as possible for the editorial staff to understand the purpose of your letter.

* Make your point. Following your opening sentence, the next sentence should state your issue/argument, correction, or additional information.

* Relate your letter to the newspaper's readers. Make it local.

* Use simple language. Easy-to-understand language is best and ensures that your message will not be misunderstood.

* Positive language makes positive points. People like other people who are positive - an important point to remember when you are writing a letter to the editor. After all, you are writing to express your opinion and to persuade others to believe as you do.

* Avoid negative "insult" language. It is much more difficult to persuade people with a negative argument using negative language. By trying to make a negative point, the reader may feel insulted or irritated.

* Examples of negative words to avoid: anti-(issue), betray, collapse, consequences, corrupt, crisis, destroy, endanger, greed, impose, incompetent, liar, limit, permissive, radical, selfish, them, they, traitors, worry.

* Use your last (closing sentence) to make a strong statement.

* Always include your name and contact information. The easier it is for the editor(s) to contact you, the better your chances of having your letter published. Make it easy for them to contact you to confirm that you wrote the letter (and not someone simply using your name). Newspapers will not publish your phone numbers or email address - only your name, city and state.

* Proofread, check spelling, and proofread again. If you use a word processor, use the spell check and grammar check features. Ask a friend to look at the letter. Another pair of eyes can help you write a letter to the editor that gets published.