Opinion: Breaking into op-ed writing world

by Jennie S. Bev

Many young writers, especially those with university education, aspire to break into newspapers as op-ed columnists. Writing op-ed articles and having them published regularly are often considered a testament of mastery of their field. Eventually, the highest accolade would be receiving approvals from readers and being acknowledged as “public intellectuals.”

Now, how can you write an op-ed that would entice editors to publish it?

First things first, what does “op-ed” stand for? What kind of column is it? “Op-ed” is popularly known as “opinion editorial,” but it is actually “opposite the editorial.” Among other voices, it is meant to oppose and criticize editorial articles written by the newspaper’s editors. In short, an “op-ed” column is a designate space for all readers of all walks of life to share and to be heard.

Second, write something you are familiar with. You can break into the opinion writing world with any topic, as long as you are passionate. Passion shows and it pays, believe me. And by “passion,” it isn’t necessarily in an academic specialty. Once you’ve familiarized yourself with the paper’s voice and style, you can write other topics that would require more research.

Third, write with clarity, focus, structure, and loud bangs. In the opening paragraph, begin the article with a strong thesis statement. It is a two-part statement comprising a stance and its description. Make it loud and clear. You may use a theoretical framework, a philosophical avowal, or a question.

Throughout the body of the article, focus on delivering arguments, analyses, and syntheses based on the thesis statement. Don’t stray from it. Not even a little bit. Whenever you feel “lost” and somewhat blocked, refer to the thesis statement again and think through what to say next. Being aware of such laser-sharp focus would train your mental stamina to think with discipline. After all, writing is the most disciplined form of thinking.

Use strong structures, don’t simply ramble. And by “structure,” it refers to well-defined paragraphs in which each paragraph comes with its own main idea and supporting ideas. Elaborate complex ideas into simple and easy-to-digest concepts. Include quotations from published authors and renowned figures in the field to add substance to your arguments. Use smooth transitions to link one paragraph with the next and to weave ideas with buoyancy.

At last, sprinkle bangs throughout the article, right from the opening paragraph. The beginning and the concluding paragraphs should be the most memorable and both must complement each other. It means the thesis statement should be answered by the conclusion, which is the final closing paragraph.

Being a public intellectual starts with small steps. And breaking into the op-ed writing world can be an easy and simple task, as long as you are passionate to think with discipline.[]