Below is an excerpt from a recent workshop we ran in partnership with Oide Creativity
Jennifer’s Key points for Writing Opinion Pieces
Start with the basics – five W’s and a H. Before you write your article, be clear on the basics: Who, What, Where, When, Why, and How
Beat the drum -Your opening lines are essential for capturing the reader’s attention and making them care about your message. A strong, engaging introduction sets the tone for the rest of your piece and encourages readers to continue
Frame your story with a great headline – Think about what the headline might say, as this will help you to frame your opinion
Write meaningfully. Be measured. Avoid clichés and jargon.
Do it with data – Support your argument with facts, ideally linking to them from the article
Readability is very important – Reading your article aloud or having a friend or family member read it can help you catch any awkward phrasing, unclear points, or mistakes you might have missed. It also gives you a better sense of how your writing sounds to others, helping you refine it for greater impact.
To edit is divine – As the famous writer Stephen King said: “To write is human, to edit is divine.”
Put it in the drawer – Once you’ve completed your article, put it away and then read it again the next day before submitting it
Feel the fear – Expressing our opinions can feel daunting, but a thoughtfully crafted and compelling piece of opinion journalism has the power to offer readers a fresh perspective and even shift their views. Be brave and confident in sharing your perspective.
