Tips for Writing a Letter to the Editor

1. Make it timely.
   It's helpful to cite a current news or magazine item, preferably one covered in the publication to which you're submitting your letter. Write your letter soon after you find the item so it contains a sense of immediacy. Also, look at your calendar for letter hooks. On Independence Day, tell your community why all Americans deserve affordable, quality health care.
2. Be specific.
   Health care reform isn't always easy to talk about, so stick with key facts. And it's much better to personalize those facts by including some of your own health care experiences. Feel free to use our national and state health care facts.
3. Keep it short.
   Many publications prefer you keep your letter around 150 words. You can use our sample letters as a guide.
4. Know the sending procedure.
   Know whether the publication prefers email or fax. Most likely you'll need to include your name, address, and daytime phone so their staff can contact you before they publish your letter.
5. Proofread.
   Check for spelling, grammatical, and stylistic errors. Read your letter aloud to make sure it's well organized and compelling.