Op-Eds and Opinion Pieces

An op-ed, by the strictest definition, is a medium-length piece (~500 words) solicited by the publication to oppose the position of the editorial board. This is where the term “op-ed” comes from: the “opposite of the editorial”, not “opinion-editorial”. That said, the lines in today’s media are blurry. A letter to the editor can be much longer in some instances and an op-ed need not be solicited or be the opposite opinion of the editorial board. Your situation will determine how you structure your piece.

When you write one of these pieces, you are expected to share your educated opinion on a current and often controversial or debated topic or issue. It is sometimes referred to as an opinion or perspective piece, but what distinguishes it from a purely opinion piece is that it is written from an assumed knowledge base – the author has expertise on the topic. Within this piece, you may find yourself combining other types of writing. For example, you may draw upon a critical voice or analytical voice in which you compare and contrast or evaluate an issue, or use a persuasive style of writing to compel and convince the reader.

How to Write an Opinion Piece

Where do you start and how do you write an opinion piece? Here are some steps to consider:

1. Choose a specific topic that is current, timely, and controversial. Avoid topics that are too broad or ones that hinder your ability to write comprehensively about your topic in a concise manner. For example, writing about the need for seatbelts in cars is no longer a current topic; it hasn’t been for decades. However, writing about seatbelts on buses is a timely health-related topic with some controversy surrounding it.
2. Always consider the audience because they will influence the language you use and the points you emphasize. Do not just express an opinion; advocate a position and give the reader the tools needed to take the next step. Advocating a position involves expressing your opinion and suggesting what the reader should do about it. If Problem X exists, advocate how to correct it. If Candidate X is the best person for the job, suggest ways to support that person. Examples of support include visiting a campaign or issue website, volunteering, or just by voting a particular way. Address the readership of the publication, not an individual or niche. Introduce a personal perspective to relate to the audience why your opinion is valid. You may be tempted to create a laundry list of facts and statistics, but that is not the purpose of an op-ed.. Rhetorical devices such as metaphors, short anecdotes, or reasonable appeals to emotion are more effective at convincing people of your point of view than an assortment of statistics. Your audience is the person or group that you are trying to influence.
3. Think about your purpose in writing. It is important to know what you want to convey and stick with it. The purpose can generally be categorized into two types. The first type is to express your opinion about an issue. For example, you might express your opinion about the need for a guaranteed basic income for adults regardless of employment status. Here, you need to state your opinion and clearly argue it. The second type is to propose a solution to an issue. For example, you might argue that a solution to workplace stress is to develop and implement meditation programs. Here, you need to describe the problem and why your solution is best. Whatever the purpose, note it at the top of your paper as you begin writing, so that you can keep it in mind and ensure that your writing always aligns with your purpose.
4. Based on your informed opinion, choose a side and state your position early. You should clearly state your opinion in the first paragraph. In a few more sentences, explain the importance of the issue, though this may not be necessary if you’re writing about a national issue currently in the spotlight. Then, in one or two short paragraphs, elaborate on your reasons for having this opinion. Express what you believe your audience can do to further this particular cause. This call to action is important; without it, readers may not feel propelled to do anything, even if they agree with your point of view, unless you guide them in the right direction.
5. Near the beginning of your piece you should briefly explain who you are and explain any relevant details. If possible, find a unique perspective from which you can view the issue and include it the introduction to gain readers’ attention. Write a very brief conclusion, preferably a one sentence zinger that calls back to the unique perspective in the introduction. Writers often express their frustration with creating effective introductions and conclusions, but this strategy makes writing these sections an easier task.
6. You should structure your piece similar to other types of writing. Begin with an introduction that describes the topic and your opinion. Next, write the body of the editorial: describe both sides of the issue, explain why you disagree with one side of an issue, and then provide a sound argument to support your opinion. Finally, finish with a conclusion that really grabs your audience. This might include a call to action that prompts the audience to immediately respond to the issue.

What to keep in mind?

As you write an opinion piece, keep in mind the following points:

• Write using a professional tone.
• Think about how you can present your idea constructively, without suggesting a cure-all.
• Choose clear and simple language and avoid jargon and slang. Don’t make your reader “work” to understand what you are talking about.
• Create a short title that emphasizes your main point – it should be catchy and maybe provoking. 
• Do your research and make sure your facts are correct. It is important that you can support your argument and use examples to explain your points.
• Keep it concise. The length will depend on the publication that you are writing for. These pieces usually range from 500–1500 words, but if you’re writing as part of a course’s evaluation component, refer to the assignment guidelines.
• Before submitting your piece, check to see if it answers the following questions:
  • Who are you and how do you relate to X?
  • Why is X important?
  • What is your view on X?
  • Why do you think that about X?
  • What can we do about X?