The following is to be taken simply as advice from someone who has been able to successfully publish several letters to the editor. If you wish to expand on what's below, drop us a line at: pmwatch@zworg.com

• Start with: "Dear Sir/Madam,"
• Refer explicitly to an editorial, column, or letter to the editor : "In your editorial "Peace under fire" (October 3, 2000)..."
• Make it short: two small paragraphs or so.
• Avoid inflamatory language, insults, etc. Be polite and avoid personalizing.
• Be concise and factual, and stick to one or two specific points.
• Include your full name, your address, your phone number, and your email address. If they publish, they will publish your full name, the city, and your email address (if you give them permission to publish the email address).