Editorials feature a periodical’s opinion on a specific topic or issue. They are intended to draw attention and even inspire action. Editorials should focus on hot, widely discussed topics in order to attract new readers and engage existing ones.
When creating an editorial, start by stating your position on the subject clearly and concisely. Then, develop several strong arguments in support of your opinion, backed up by credible sources. Make sure to address and acknowledge opposing viewpoints in order to show balance and fairness. Finally, wrap up your article by presenting a call to action and a personal viewpoint on the issue.
Think about the last time you won an argument, maybe convincing your parents that you needed the new iPhone or persuading your friend to stay out past curfew to attend a concert. Chances are, your best arguments were those that combined passion with cold, hard facts. As an editor, that’s how you should approach every editorial assignment.
As a writer, you should strive to produce an enlightening editorial that leaves readers feeling a sense of profundity. The piece should be so powerful that it makes the reader want to reread it, like they do after eating a delicious meal. Ideally, it should also leave them with a burning desire to act or to read more editorials on the same subject by the same author. If your editorial accomplishes these objectives, you’ve written a success.