The term editorial is common enough when it comes to journalism. But do we really know what it is if we sit down to write it? Most likely the answer is no. So, let’s go ahead and find out. An editorial is simply an author’s view on different issues and topics. While writing one, it is important to know which elements help it look more appealing to the readers. Our guide will explore all these details and more about editorial writing. Read ahead to find out!
What does it take to write an editorial?
We already established above that this type of writing is an expression of its writer’s opinions. However, do not presume that writing your own ideas exempts research and facts from the equation. Actually, it is acutely important to research for an editorial, as you cannot convince your readers without genuine evidence.
The objective of an editorial is to clearly state an issue and suggest a solution for it. The author needs to address the people who are currently afflicted by that problem. And then tell them how the situation can possibly be handled. The author can also take a bolder step by addressing the government. He or she can suggest counter measure to combat a problem at hand. The research that goes into this form of writing makes it quite similar to an academic assignment.
Types of Editorials
There are basically four types of editorials. Each of them serves a different purpose.
• Criticize: These editorials focus on the issue instead of the solution. They critically evaluate decision, actions or situations that have occurred.
• Explain and interpret: An editorial pertaining to this format presents the writer’s view on how they tackled a controversial or sensitive issue.
• Praise: As evident, in this piece writers tend to commend and show support towards an organization or individual’s action.
• Persuade: An editorial of this sort provides a solution and convinces audience to take action.
The writing process of an editorial
Writers get uncertain about how to craft an effective editorial these days. Mainly due to the fact that social media gives everyone an opportunity to express opinions effortlessly. Instead of getting anxious about external forces, you need to focus on finding evidence to support your ideas. To avoid making it sound like a personal rant, you must have genuine facts to back it up. This will make it difficult for anyone to dismiss your ideas in a hurry. Following are the steps you will need to go through for writing a successful editorial.
1. Choose an interesting topic
While brainstorming for brilliant ideas, be sure that you come with interesting and current topics. A controversial topic is a good approach to make people see how important it is to fix. Your topic should be able to capture the readers’ attention right from the beginning.
2. Gathering facts
Finding the truth was never more important than when you sit down to write an editorial. It is your responsibility to provide the most honest face of the issue. Your information should be taken from credible and most updated sources only. Make sure that all the facts you are basing your writing upon are correct.
3. Writing
When you finally start writing keep it concise and comprehensive. Do not use terms that are too technical or fancy. This can dissuade readers from reading any further than a few lines. The more relatable your material is the more they will find it engaging. Maintain a fine balance between excellent yet easy to understand vocabulary. Also, your editorial should not exceed 600-800 words. A longer piece is sure to lose the attention of the reader. Keep it to the point and precise.
4. The introduction
An editorial can begin with a catchy or unique quotation that is relevant. A question, statistics or any other source that is related to the topic can make this part impressive. Any one of these elements can be used to craft a hook sentence to grab the reader’s curiosity. Also, present the argument you are going to focus on at this early stage.
5. The body
The body paragraphs are the core of your editorial piece. Here you must explain the targeted issue in an unbiased way. Discuss the topic in detail and focus on each minor and major aspect. Address the what, where, who, why and when of the issue to bring forth everything.
Move on to address the opinion that oppose your views. A strong editorial will never hesitate to include an opposing view. Because it will always have a rebuttal ready for views that are against its own. However, do it by providing reasons and facts that are can stand against the opposing perspectives. Not by merely stating that your opinion is better than theirs. A credibility in your work can only be achieved if your argument is effectively supported.
6. Conclusion
Do not let your writing skills dwindle away when the editorial is coming to its end. In fact, you need it leave a lasting impact upon the reader as you sign off. Hence wrap it off with a statement that is powerful and thought provoking. The final paragraph must provide the reader a sense of completeness and closure.
7. Editing and proofreading
We are sure you have written your editorial in a most devoted manner. Yet, even the most professional of writers need to review their work more than one time. Therefore, read everything through till you have fixed all the mistakes and type errors. Revising your work also gives you an idea of how the readers will find it.
These were all the simple yet effective steps to write a great editorial. Our writing experts at cheapessaywriter.com were delighted to share these nuggets of wisdom with you. If you need more help on any type of writing, contact our service. Our quality content is sure to satisfy all your writing requirements, regardless of topic or field.