Editorial Writing Subtitle

What is editorial writing? Editorial writing is opinion writing for newspapers, magazines either online or print. Editorials express opinions about a current topics or issues Editorial authors express specific bias with the intent of persuading the readers thoughts and/or actions

Types of Editorial Writing There are three types of editorials: interpretive, criticism/persuasive and entertainment Persuasive: Persuades readers about a sensitive topic. This is the most common type of editorial. A critical editorial seeks to point out a flaw, to judge severely and find fault.

Editorial Writing Types Continued What is the best way to convince someone that your opinion is better? Persuasive or critical editorials often: use vivid examples that play on your emotion and that also make sense present both sides of the issue and illustrate how your opinion is logically the better choice avoids “preachiness” the tone is fair, balanced and respectful

Editorial Types Continued Interpretive- Takes a complex issue and breaks it down Example #1 Your school administrator has decided to decrease the number of student parking spaces on campus. Lately there has been more overcrowding than ever, as well as a series of accidents and minor injuries. The new parking policy is complex, and students, even faculty do not understand it. In an editorial of interpretation, you might ask: Why decrease space instead of increase it? Will there be alternative parking? Where? Who can use it? Will there be “anti-parking” incentives, such as discounted bus passes or vouchers? By analyzing the policy and explaining what it really means, you, the editorialist, assists readers, your fellow students.

Editorial Writing Continued Example #2 Your school is about to add more computers for student use. As an opinion writer, you learn of the impending purchase and of the two proposals administrators are considering. Two computer companies have given school officials financial bids. One of the bids is far lower than the other, so it seems the decision will be an easy one-at least until you hear why one bid was much lower. You discover that the company with the best deal wants to unload some units that will be antiquated within six months. While the school cannot afford to do business with the other firm — at least not for another semester, when funds may become available — you suspect that purchasing the less expensive units would be similar to buying a fancy car with no engine. In an editorial you make a list of reasons the school may want to wait.

Editorial Writing Types Continued In an editorial you make a list of reasons the school may want to wait., for example: Software manufactured in the future may not work on the units for sale. Warranties on the units are suspect because companies get rid of old parts to make room for the new. It will be difficult to locate someone who can maintain computers with antiquated hardware. Computers cannot be sold used the way cars can.

Editorial Writing Types Continued Entertainment Some of the best opinion writers use humor to make a point. Humor disarms people…they let their defenses down. Example: David Letterman’s Top 10 list is a form of an entertainment editorial.

How to Write an Editorial Step 1: Determine the type of editorial you need to write In order to write a successful editorial, you need sound reasoning and facts You need to support your position in a respectful tone. Step 2: Title Topic sentence Evidence to support Conclusion Good editorials run about 250-500 words