An editorial is an article that presents the opinion of a group on a problem; for this reason, it is usually unsigned. As a lawyer would do, editorial writers rely on a topic to try to get readers to agree with them on a current, controversial and burning issue. In essence, an editorial is a news-backed opinion article.
Steps
Method 1 of 2: Basics
Step 1. Choose the topic and point of view
Editorials are meant to influence public opinion, encourage criticism, and sometimes induce people to take action to solve a problem. The topic must be current, interesting and have a purpose. Generally, there are four types of editorials:
- Of explanation or interpretation: This format is used to explain how and why a newspaper or magazine takes a certain position on a controversial issue.
- Critical: This format criticizes actions or decisions made by third parties and also tries to propose a better solution. It is aimed in particular at soliciting the attention of readers on the immediate implications of a problem.
- Persuasion: This genre is used to induce the reader to action, focusing on the solutions, not so much the problem.
- Exhortation: This format is used to show support for people and organizations in the community who have done something important.
Step 2. Go straight to the facts
An editorial is a mix of facts and opinions; it not only represents the opinion of the author, but that of all collaborators. The collection of facts should include objective investigations and reports.
A good editorial should contain at least one "point of enlightenment" that can be described as "a recent and original observation." Then, get facts from a number of different sources, point out the reasons, immediate consequences, or the presence of a flaw in the current analysis
Step 3. Use a simple style
Editorials must generally allow for a fairly fast, engaging reading. They don't go on for pages and pages, reworking and rehashing the point. Nor do they set out to make Mr. Rossi feel like he has lost something. Make sure the editorial isn't long or too obscure.
- Keep around 600-800 words. With anything longer, you risk losing readers. A short, snappy, fiery piece is much more exciting than a wordy lesson.
- Eliminate the jargon. The public is reading your article for information on something they are trying to understand; proposing technical terms or specific jargon is discouraging and makes it difficult to accept the article. Keep in mind the lowest common denominator when writing.
Method 2 of 2: Writing the Editorial
Step 1. Begin the editorial with a statement in the style of a thesis
The introduction - the first or the first two paragraphs - must be composed in such a way as to capture the reader's attention. You can start with a question of great interest, with a quote, or you can summarize what the editorial is about.
Express your opinion clearly. The rest of the editorial will be based on the support of this opinion. Make it as effective as possible. However, in doing so, never use "I" … it diminishes the strength and credibility of the article and sounds rather informal
Step 2. Explain the problem objectively
The editorial body should explain the matter objectively, like a journalist would and say why it is important to the reader or to the entire community.
Include who, what, when, where, why and how. It covers all the essential points and focuses on facts and quotes supported by important sources. This ensures that every reader has at least a basic (and undistorted) understanding of the subject
Step 3. Present the opposing argument first
Make sure you present the groups in opposition to your opinion, otherwise the development of the debate will be hazy. Report their views objectively, with accurate facts or quotes. Never denigrate anyone.
- It is elegant and effective to detect positivity in adverse opinion, if they are based on facts. It shows that you are addressing the topic in an ethically correct way and with a balanced view. If you neglect the positive aspects of the adverse party, the editorial will be considered biased and misinformed.
- Give opponents a real argument. Possibly consistent. Nothing is gained by refuting a non-problem. Make clear their beliefs and what they stand for.
Step 4. Present your reasons / evidence that directly refute the opposing opinion '
Begin this section with a passage, which clearly leads from the subject as opposed to yours. Use facts and quotes from others that support your opinion.
- Start with strong reasons and make them even stronger. Don't limit yourself to existing opinions - add yours too. Whatever your reasons, make sure you stand clearly on one side of the fence; there is no space here for shaded areas.
- Literary references are appropriate. They give you credibility and the ability to learn. It brings up images of people or situations from the past that are evocative to the reader.
Step 5. Make your solution known
This is different from the reasons and the evidence. If you think cutting the defense budget is wrong, what would you cut instead? Bringing your solution to the fore is imperative to addressing the problem. If you don't have any, any solution is better than yours.
Your solution must be clear, rational and feasible. It can't just work in theory. More, it has to be convincing. Ideally, readers will be prompted to act on the information and responses you have presented
Step 6. Conclude the editorial with a punch
A noteworthy statement would forever fix the editorial in the reader's mind. Use quotes or a question that forces readers to think (for example, if we don't take care of the environment, then who will?).
It ends with an incisive synthesis; there may be some readers who absent-mindedly read the editorial. Ultimately, however, the public should feel more informed and determined to do more on the issue
Step 7. Correct the job
A great piece isn't great if it's filled with spelling, grammar, and punctuation errors. Find someone on your team to supervise the work; two minds are always better than one.
If you work for an organization, make sure you have not misrepresented their point of view. Have the group read the piece to make sure everyone (or at least most) supports the arguments you are about to post. They can, at the same time, ask questions or suggest ideas that you may have missed or overlooked
Advice
Don't make repetitive speeches. The dots would sound incredibly similar causing the reader to lose interest. Keep them original and interesting as much as possible
Pick an intriguing title. Many readers will judge whether an article sounds interesting by just those few words. It should be short but poignant
Warnings
- NEVER plagiarize someone else's work. Plagiarism is a serious crime, punishable by law.
- Don't use vulgar words and don't defame. Defamation is a serious crime.
- Don't refer to specific people. Identify a group or belief as your opponent.
- Don't use "I" or "me"; this opinion is not yours alone.
Sources & Quotes
- ↑ 1, 01, 11, 2https://www.geneseo.edu/~bennett/EdWrite.htm
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↑ 2, 02, 1https://www.pacific.edu/About-Pacific/AdministrationOffices/Office-of-Communications/Media-Relations/Writing-an-Editorial.html
