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The Letter Wizard is now available for Beta Test - Try it today and let us know what you think.

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Anatomy of a successful letter

In addition to the successful letters hints, a "constituent letter" tends to follow a certain formula, beyond the proper formatting and salutation. Typically, there are three sections: Opening, Main Body and Closing.

In the opening section, you introduce yourself, say something nice about them (we all like to hear good things about ourselves and rarely stop reading when we do!) and then state the topic (while we have their attention...)

Sample Opening Paragraph

I am glad to have you representing us in Washington and I want to take this opportunity to thank you for your service to all of us in the 6th Congressional District. I have lived in the 6th District for many years and look forward to retiring here. I am writing to you today, however, concerning my retirement options in light of the future of the social security program.

In the main body, we present our views on the topic of the letter, such as whether we are for or against a bill, how an issue impacts us and in general, what we want them to understand from our position.

Sample Main Body - Opposing

I am extremely concerned with the President's proposal to privatize social security and I write to express my opposition to this plan that would, in my opinion, place an unconscionable burden on our children and grandchildren.

or... Sample Main Body - Supporting

I am extremely grateful for the President's proposal to privatize social security and I write to express my support for this plan that would, in my opinion, remove an unconscionable burden on our children and grandchildren.

Finally, in the closing section, we may give a one-line summary, thank them for their time and consideration and maybe let them know if we want a response or not. This is an artful way to close off the communication, either by suggesting the get back with you ("I look forward to your thoughts on this matter...") or, if you just want to voice your opinion and don't need to hear theirs, ("Thank you for your time and consideration, no response is necessary beyond your continued support for our district...")

Next page.... Let's try one!

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