A letter to the editor is a letter sent to the editors of a newspaper about materials that have appeared in the publication or issues of concern to the readership. Letters to the editor are an effective way of quickly telling people about an issue you care about.

Here are some tips that will help you get your letter in the paper.

1. Keep it short.

Every paper has different expectations, but the average is around 300 words; don’t exceed that. Be careful to follow all requirements set by your newspaper.

2. Get to the point.

Letters to the editor should focus on one specific ask or criticism. Letters should get to the point quickly, state it as clearly as possible.

3. Bring your point home.

When writing a letter, you should relate it to yourself and the community as much as possible.

4. Be timely.

If you are writing about something a candidate has said, do so within two days of when he or she made the remark.

5. Provide supporting evidence.

Base your letter on factual, researched or first-hand information. Use our Talking Points to help support your letter.

6. Include ways to take action.

Always give readers a way to get involved in the movement. Telling readers to go to www.AskTheCandidates.org is an easy way to do this.

7. Represent a large group of people.

Sometimes writing on behalf of a large group can strengthen your point. Consider signing your letter from your class, congregation or community group. Express your opinion, and then base it on factual, researched or first-hand information. Use our Talking Points to help support your op-ed.

8. Include your contact info.

Editors usually have to call to confirm authorship, so don't forget to include your phone number and email address in your submission.