Include copies of the articles with your letter and summarize them in layperson's terms. This makes research easier for the staff, and they will appreciate it. Always make copies of your letters before sending them. If your representative has not written or called within six weeks, write him or her again including your original letter. Always give ample time for a response.
Form letters signed by an automatic pen from the senator always come before the true letter.
Unfortunately, waiting for a response from your representative can truly be an exercise in patience. There is no rule saying that one form of communication is better than any other for contacting members of Congress. However, the overall impression is that e-mail is taken less seriously than ground mail or a telephone call. If you plan on visiting your state capital or Washington, D.C. in the next year, include those dates in your letter so that you can schedule some time to meet with your representative or their legislative aide. While writing letters is a great start, meeting and talking with your representative further strengthens your position.