Make it legible.Your letter doesn't have to be fancy, but you should use a typewriter or computer word processor if your handwriting is difficult to read.

Send letters to weekly community newspapers too. The smaller the newspaper's circulation, the easier it is to get your letter printed.

Be sure to include your contact information. Many newspapers will only print a letter to the editor after calling the author to verify his or her identity and address. Newspapers will not give out that information, and will usually only print your name and city should your letter be published.

Make references to the newspaper. While some papers print general commentary, many will only print letters that refer to a specific article. Here are some examples of easy ways to refer to articles in your opening sentence:

• I was disappointed to see that The Post's May 18 editorial "School Vouchers Are Right On" omitted some of the key facts in the debate.
  
  
• I strongly disagree with (author's name) narrow view on women's reproductive rights. ("Name of Op-Ed," date)
  
  
• I am deeply saddened to read that Congressman Doe is working to roll back affirmative action. ("Title of Article," date)

Visit our Media Center for Contacting the Alabama Press