GUIDELINES

  1. When you write a letter to point out an incorrect information, refer to the article, report or interview. Then ask the reader to fix that mistake. Quote the mistake and give the correct information.
  2. Inform the reader about a mistake they made in their report.
  3. Tell them what the error was. Then provide the correct information.
  4. Ask the reader to fix this mistake.
  5. Thank the reader for cooperating, if it seems appropriate to you.

SAMPLE LETTER

[Senders Name]
[Address line]
[State, ZIP Code]

[Letter Date]

[Recipients Name]
[Address line]
[State, ZIP Code]

[Subject: Normally bold, summarizes the intention of the letter] -Optional-


Dear [Recipients Name],

I sincerely hope that you will take the time to confirm the news that you obtain before publishing it as responsible journalists. I was extremely shocked to read on your Socials section that my wife and I are currently undergoing divorce proceedings when there is absolutely no truth to this news. That report has caused undue stress to my family and friends and would like a retraction from you immediately. I am hoping that you can oblige in this request at the soonest possible time as I would like to avoid any more heartbreak and confusion among the people closest to me.

Sincerely,

[Senders Name]
[Senders Title] -Optional-

[Enclosures: number] - Optional -
cc: [Name of copy recipient] - Optional -

Sample letter to request a retraction of a magazine article.

Further things to consider when writing request letters to publishers

Further things to consider when writing request letters to publishers

Request Letters

Request letters are letters written to ask formally or politely for something. Any matter that requires a humble and polite appeal can be put forward using a request letter. It could be a job interview, a promotion, or a favor; a request letter will get the job done. A request letter can be formal or informal depending on the recipient. If you are requesting a friend to do a task for you, for instance, you can choose to go informal. But if you are requesting your manager for a promotion, the letter has to be formal. Either way, a request letter must be sent early enough to give the recipient ample time to process and respond to the request.

When writing request letters, you need to be brief and direct, avoiding any auxiliary information that might weaken the message you are conveying. State exactly and clearly what you are requesting for giving reasons for it. If you are requesting for a raise, for example, explain in details why you think you deserve one. Maintain a polite tone throughout the letter. Close the letter by thanking the recipient in advance and expressing your anticipation for his/her consideration.

Letters to Publishers

Letters to publishers are letters written to individuals or corporations responsible for printing and distribution of printed and digital publications. Mostly, these are cover letters to introduce you and your book to potential publishers. Before writing to any publisher, it is important that you do your market research to find out which firms can publish the type of book you have written. An excellent starting point is the bookshops and public libraries. While at it, check the submission guidelines of each publisher to see which one is easier and more convenient to work with.

Letters to publishers should be formal and well-presented. Start your letter with a punchy subject line that catches the attention of the recipient. Talk about your book briefly; write a short paragraph that summarizes the most important details about your book. For instance, mention what makes your book different, whom it is written for, and what drove you into writing it. Mention any relevant qualifications and skills that qualify you to write your book. If you have published a book successfully before, make sure to mention it in your letter. Finalize by thanking the recipient for his/her time and consideration and provide your contact information.

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