An opinion piece, also known as an editorial or a letter to the editor, is a short article that makes a specific point in response to events, news, or research published by a publication. It can have a broad impact on the public, and is often used to bring scientific research to a larger audience or influence policy decisions.
To be effective, an op-ed must be short and concise. It should focus on a single topic, and it must be current and relevant. It must also be thought-provoking and engaging for readers. A good way to keep the attention of readers is to tell an interesting anecdote, or provide a surprising fact. In addition, it is a good idea to use a conversational tone and avoid excessive use of jargon.
A key element in an op-ed is having a strong position on the issue. It is important to be able to state clearly what your opinion is and why it is right. It is also a good idea to provide data or first-hand experience to back up your arguments. Finally, it is a good idea to include a call-to-action or a thought-provoking line near the end of your article.
Another key element in an op-ed, especially for science publications, is having a news peg. A piece about a topic that is relevant to a current event is much more likely to be accepted for publication than a general piece that has no connection to the news cycle. For example, if your local library is in danger of being closed to make room for a fast food restaurant, that would be an ideal subject for an opinion piece.