Editorials & opinions
Editorials are a newspaper's position on an issue; opinion columns are personality driven.
There are four basic types of editorials:
- Explanation
- Critique
- Praise
- Persuade
Purpose of an editorial
An editorial is designed to convince other people that you are correct. Be confident in your stance - passion is key to a powerful editorial or opinion.
Timeliness: Good editorials typically tie in with the issues of the day, and have a compelling news angle embedded inside.
Structure:
Intro - Just as with our reviews, we want a strong catchy intro where you state your thesis, and take your position. Remember the six Ws.
Body - In the following short paragraphs, back up your opinion and thesis with clear and well-argued points.
Consider mentioning the other side of the argument - and shooting down that argument before continuing on with your main points. That's an effective editorial technique: Bring up the opponent's best point and crush it.
Conclusion - Wrap up by repeating your main point, and making a strong call to action; give the reader something to really think about.
note: Unlike our previous reviews, editorials and opinions typically don't use "I."
Examples:
Here's a NY Times editorial on the benefits of taxing soda and other sweetened beverages.
Here is an opinion in the Beacon Journal that uses a very effective technique when arguing that Obama is not overly apologetic.
This Washington Times editorial uses a very effective intro as well: There's no mistaking the thesis and black and white delivery of facts in this piece on Obama energy policy.
So, let's get started with our first of three opinion pieces: Our local angle. Remember, research forms the basis of good opinions.
