Rautman, D.E., Idzik, S., Hammersla, M., Rosseter, R., (2018). Advancing scholarship through translational research: The role of PhD and DNP prepared nurses. OJIN: The Online Journal of Issues in Nursing. 23, (2) Manuscript 2. https://doi.org/10.3912/OJIN.Vol23No02Man02
1. Start the Letter with a Salutation
For this, you do not need to know the name of the editor. You can simply add ‘ Letter to the Editor’ as a salutation. However, if you know the name of the editor, then use the name.
2. Start with an Engaging Sentence
The opening is important to grab the attention of the readers. Instead of beating around the bush, get to the point. Tell the reader about the subject of your letter and make it convincing for them.
3. Introduce the Topic of the Letter
Don’t keep the readers and the editor waiting and get to the point real fast and quick. Throughout the letter, be concise, focused, and quick. Talk about the issue and key points that you want to discuss in your letter.
4. Explain the Importance of the Issue
You are writing a letter because you feel that the issue is significant. However, this does not mean that your reader also feels the same emotions or has knowledge about it. Explain the issue’s background and its significance briefly.
Why do you feel that the issue needs to be addressed?
Why are you writing this letter?
Answer the questions in plain and simple language so that your readers can understand them easily.
5. Provide Relevant Evidence
Provide proof and evidence about the issue that you are discussing. Some of the key evidence could be found in the cuttings of the newspapers and magazines. Use them to highlight the issue and the need for its solution.
6. Add your Opinion about the Issues
What are your personal thoughts about the issue in question?
What do you think should be done to handle the situation? Answer these questions by expressing your views. Then, give suggestions to solve the issue and keep everything brief and simple.
7. Keep the Letter Brief and Concise
Shorter and more focused letters are more likely to be accepted for publication. Once you are done with the letter’s writing, read it and see if anything could be deducted.
(Letter must be at least 1.5 to 2 pages but no more than 3 pages).
8. Add your Signature
Newspapers and other publications do not like and publish anonymous letters. After you are done with the writing part, add your full name, contact number, email address, and home address with it. Newspapers may call you to inquire and know that you have written the letter.
9. Revise your Letter
Make sure that you revise and edit your paper properly before posting it. Check it for clarity as the newspapers prefer well-written, well-researched and brief letters.