An editorial column is an opinion piece that asserts a viewpoint using journalistic principles. These pieces often speak to timely issues, and may be designed to inform, educate or entertain readers. An editorial differs from a standard news article as it contains a strong opinion, and aims to persuade readers to take action or change their perspective on an issue.
Whether writing for the local newspaper or for an online publication, editors and writers alike must consider their audience and how to best meet their needs with each piece. This includes understanding what readers are looking for in an editorial, and deciding how the column will help reach their goals, such as educating or entertaining.
Some examples of an editorial include a political candidate being endorsed by the paper, an opinion on a controversial current event, or an argument against government overreach. These are some of the more popular topics for an editorial, but there are many other ways to spark debate and discussion.
The key to a successful editorial is being clear and engaging, and leaving the reader with a satisfying after taste. Ultimately, the goal of an editorial is to provoke thought and scientific discourse, and it should never be condescending or offensive [1].
When choosing a topic for an editorial, writers should ensure that they have enough background information on the subject matter, and be careful not to be too controversial. A controversial editorial is more likely to engage the reader, but it is important that the writer acknowledges counter arguments.