Genre: Instruction

The allure of the letters page is undeniable ; it 's the one place where the public can have their voices heard . But considering that hundreds of readers are competing for this space , how can you make sure your submission stands out ? Here 's 15 tips from our letters editor to help you get published . Shorter is always better To avoid taxing the editor's patience , and that of readers ' , submissions should be kept to 250 words . While at first it may seem difficult to express your groundbreaking thoughts in only a few paragraphs , keep in mind this limit is for your benefit . The more succinctly the point is made , the better the chance the letter will be read and remembered . Letters are n't mini columns Instead of trying to frame a complex argument , the best letters make a single point , convincingly yet briefly . If you can throw in a pithy observation or humorous twist along the way , all the better . Be topical We look for letters that address stories and issues currently on the minds of readers . You may still be angry about Jim Flaherty's flip-flop on income trusts , but unless there is a new development in this story , it 's no longer an issue for the letters page . Appeal to readers' emotions Some of our best letters come from people dealing with difficult situations . Last week , for example , we carried a handful of passionate letters from parents of children with Down syndrome . Readers sent in notes saying they were moved to tears by these letters , which stimulated both the heart and the mind . Draw from your own experience Do n't pen a letter that relies on quotes from outside authorities to make its point . We want to hear what you think , not what you read elsewhere . Your letter will be edited You could very well be the world's best writer , but be assured that your carefully selected prose will be fine-tuned by Post staff -- and probably shortened -- in the interests of clarity and space . Do n't take it personally , but instead consider it a learning experience for the next missive you send in . Eschew obfuscation Which is to say you should keep the language of the letter as simple and unpretentious as possible . We need exclusivity Do n't send your letter to numerous media outlets , thinking that will increase its chance of publication . That only achieves quite the opposite effect . Letters editors across the land , seeing the note is not unique to their paper , will just delete it . Play nice Do n't attack the personal views of a columnist , reporter or fellow letter writer . Instead offer a thoughtful countervailing opinion and try to advance the debate , which will encourage other readers to join in . Know the two-week rule In an effort to allow as many readers as possible to have their say on our pages , we aim to space out contributions by letter writers by at least two weeks .