How to Write an Editorial

There are many issues around us that need to be dealt with: corruption in politics, people finder on missing persons, thousands driven away from their homes because of recession. For a budding journalist these issues can be dealt with through writing, two of the best ways is dealing it through opinion writing or editorial writing.

Many may get confused as to the difference of the above mentioned technical writing method. Opinion or column writing is a write-up of one’s personal point of view about an issue presently tackled in the society; on the other hand Editorial is the whole staff’s (the publication). With these said, here are pointers on how to present opinions for publication.

1. Start with a catchy statement.

For those who have dealt with writing a feature, getting the readers’ attention is all about the first sentence. This goes the same with writing opinion articles. Start with either: a startling statement, a question or a simple quote. Go find person who has given a strong quote, question, or remark either related to the issue or is part of the issue.

Example of an attention grabber statement with the issue in abortion:

Startling statement: “Listen to the cries of the unborn….”

Question: “Is abortion a solution to unwanted pregnancy?”

Quote: “No woman wants an abortion. Either she wants a child or she wishes to avoid pregnancy. ~Author Unknown

2. Present the news peg as clearly as possible.

A news peg is similar to a news lead. However the specific topic on the issue is presented thus introducing what the editorial is all about. It is not much straightforward but definitely presents a clear problem to be resolved. For example:

“Abortion has been one of the most debatable issues since its legalization. However the question still rise, especially with the protest from pro-life organizations, as to whether it is in fact right for such process be a solution to the

3. Write the body with clarity and unity

The next paragraphs should be written in coherence with the intro. Discuss the issue from how it started (limit it to the idea presented). Try to find person who can give further inputs that may help in developing your article. Remember that it is an opinion so make sure to state the message to be relayed to the readers. It must be written clearly and simply.

(Note: Remember to always use third person plural “WE” for the editorial and first person singular “I” for the opinion)

4. Write the conclusion finally answering and justifying the presented issue.

(Note: Number or words all in all should be 300 maximum)

Article Source: How to Write an Editorial

Published on www.ArticleMark.org