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From Idea to Impact: A Guide for Writing Editorial Example

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You don’t have to be an expert writer to create a stellar editorial. Many students hesitate when assigned an editorial. The thought of impressing a larger campus audience can be intimidating. And may lead some students to consider skipping the assignment altogether.

However, there are ways to improve their editorial writing skills. This post brings you all the essentials with editorial examples. So, start reading to discover how to create a compelling editorial easily!

Table of Contents

What is an Editorial?

Editorials are small articles, usually written in the form of essays, featured in newspapers and magazines. These articles reflect the writer or editor’s viewpoints on a subject matter. More often than not, people consider an editorial as the opinion of a newspaper on a current issue.

Types of Editorial With Editorial Example

Editorials come in various forms, each serving a unique purpose. This segment explores four types of editorials.

  • Explain and interpret

General Editorial Example

Before moving on to the types here is a general editorial example.

Title: Understanding Tourette’s Syndrome: A Call for Compassion and Inclusivity

These editorials examine a topic or issue and highlight its flaws or shortcomings.

It can be a criticism of a decision or an action. Sometimes criticism editorials suggest improvements or provide alternatives

Criticism Editorial Example: “The Flawed Education System: A Call for Reform”

*Note: Here, the writer criticizes the current education system, pointing out its weaknesses. (You may also provide necessary changes to improve student outcomes.)

Explain and Interpret

This type of editorial aims to clarify complex issues or events. By providing context it helps readers understand the topic at hand.

Editorial Example: “Breaking Down the Latest Economic Policy: A Comprehensive Analysis”

In this editorial, the author explains the intricacies of a new economic policy. Outlining its key components and potential impact on the nation’s economy.

A Persuasive editorial tries to convince people. It provides a solution and prompts the reader to take specific actions.

Editorial Example: “The Climate Crisis: Why We Must Act Now”

The author presents compelling, evidence-based arguments on  climate change  in this piece. They also persuade readers to take immediate actions essential for our planet’s future.

A praising editorial celebrates or supports a person or entity’s achievement or notable action. It may also talk about an organization or event.

Editorial Example: “The Unsung Heroes: How Online Paper Writing Service Platforms are Helping Students Find Balance in Life “

In this editorial article example, the writer applauds the professionals that help students.

Editorial Example for Students

Tips to write editorial example for elementary students.

Here are 7 tips for elementary students to write editorial examples:

  • Find a fun topic . Choose something that you and your friends care about. For example a school event, a new playground, or a favorite book.
  • Learn more . Ask your teacher, parents, or friends for information and facts about your topic. This will help you in writing fact or evidence-based editorials. 
  • Share your thoughts : Tell your readers what you think about the topic and why it’s important to you.
  • Tell a story . Use examples from your own life or from things you’ve seen or heard to make your point easier to understand.
  • Make a plan . Down your main ideas in order, so you know what to talk about first, next, and last in your editorial example.
  • Keep it simple : Use words and sentences that are easy for you and your friends to understand.
  • Ask for help . Show your editorial example to a teacher, parent, or friend and ask them for advice on how to make it even better.

You will be able to create interesting and fun editorial examples by following these tips. Here are some editorial example topics that you can write on. 

Tips to Write Editorial Example for Middle School Students 

Here are 7 tips for middle school students to write editorial examples

  • Choose a relevant topic . Pick a subject that matters to you and your peers. These can include school policies, community issues, or social trends.
  • Research your topic . Look up information and facts about your subject through different sources. These can include books, articles, or online sources. Make sure your material supports your opinion in the editorial example.
  • State your opinion . Be bold when expressing your opinion on an issue. As middle-schoolers, you can explain the reason behind your perspective. This benefits both you and your audience in expressing and understanding your opinion.
  • Use real-life examples . Remember that most of your readers are students with lower attention spans. To engage them, you need to make your editorial relatable. Add shared experiences, events, stories, and news to make your argument persuasive. 
  • Organize your ideas . Create an outline for your editorial example. A clear introduction, body, and conclusion outline will guide your writing.
  • Write clearly and concisely.  Use straightforward language and concise sentences. Make your editorial easy to understand for your fellow middle school students.
  • Revise and seek feedback.  Review your editorial example for spelling, grammar, and punctuation errors. You can ask a teacher or friend for their input on improving it.

These steps will help you write impactful editorial examples for your school magazine. Your audience will resonate with your work which can spark meaningful discussions.

Tips to Write Editorial Example for High School Students

Here are 7 tips for high school students to write editorial examples:

  • Select a compelling topic . Choose a subject that is relevant and important to you and your fellow high school students, such as school policies, social issues, or current events.
  • Conduct thorough research . Investigate your topic using reliable sources like books, articles, or reputable websites to gather evidence and support your opinion in the editorial example.
  • Present a clear argument : Articulate your stance on the issue and provide logical reasons for your viewpoint.
  • Incorporate real-world examples . Use personal experiences, school-related stories, or news events to strengthen your argument and make it relatable to your audience.
  • Structure your editorial . Plan your editorial example with a well-organized outline, including an introduction, body, and conclusion, to ensure a cohesive flow of ideas.
  • Write with clarity and precision . Employ clear language and concise sentences to convey your message effectively and engage your high school peers.
  • Revise and seek constructive feedback . Edit your editorial example for spelling, grammar, and punctuation errors, and ask a teacher, parent, or friend for their suggestions on how to enhance it.

Editorial Examples For Newspapers

Here are 8 tips for writing editorial examples for newspapers:

  • Choose a timely topic : Select a current and newsworthy issue that is relevant to your readers, such as local politics, community events, or national debates.
  • Research extensively : Investigate your topic using credible sources like official reports, expert opinions, and reputable news articles to gather solid evidence and support your viewpoint in the editorial example.
  • Formulate a strong argument : Clearly articulate your stance on the issue, present logical reasons for your position, and address potential counterarguments.
  • Incorporate real-world examples : Use relevant case studies, personal stories, or recent news events to illustrate your points and make your argument more persuasive to newspaper readers.
  • Organize your editorial effectively : Structure your editorial example with a clear introduction, body, and conclusion, ensuring a smooth flow of ideas and logical transitions between paragraphs.
  • Adopt a journalistic tone : Write with clarity, precision, and objectivity to convey your message professionally and engage your newspaper audience.
  • Fact-check and cite sources : Verify the accuracy of your information and provide proper citations for your sources to maintain credibility and trust with your readers.
  • Revise and seek professional feedback : Edit your editorial example for spelling, grammar, and punctuation errors, and consult a newspaper editor or experienced journalist for their input on how to improve your piece.

By following these tips, you’ll be able to craft insightful and impactful editorial examples that will resonate with newspaper readers and contribute to informed public discourse.

Tips to Write Editorial Examples for Newspapers

Students often find themselves lost when writing editorials, as many don’t read newspapers anymore. But fear not! In this step-by-step tutorial, we’ll show you how to build an amazing editorial. 

Choose Your Topic 

  • Brainstorm your ideas.
  • Make sure your topic hooks your reader.
  • Choose ongoing issues to write on. If you pick an older topic, write with a new perception. 
  • Ensure your topic serves a broader purpose.

It is no surprise that controversial topics gain more attention. So don’t be afraid of digging a little dirt. You can pick topics like unsolved cases where people are still seeking answers. 

Editorial example : Choosing a hot topic like “economic inflation” can instantly grab your reader’s attention. If you choose an older topic like  modernism in literature , write about how today’s readers can find those books relatable. 

Conduct Thorough Research

Think of it like writing a  research paper . Your job is to present the truth to the reader, even in your opinion. So;

  • Gather all solid facts you can find about your topic 
  • Conduct proper research from authentic sources
  • Proper facts and evidence will support your opinions 

Editorial example : Let’s say you’re writing on climate change. In this editorial essay, you will gain data from reputable sources like NASA or the IPCC. Such evidence will support your argument, making it easier to sway your audience. 

Composing The Editorial

Before we jump into the structural sections of an editorial, let’s focus on some characteristics. Following is a brief prompt on the important aspects of writing. This segment is properly explained in our next heading. 

Remember that you’re writing for the general public and not experts. So; 

  • Write concisely. 
  • Keep it clear to avoid confusing your audience.
  • Ensure it’s easy for readers to understand your opinion.
  • Give yourself a word limit that should be at most 800 words. 
  • Avoid tough or fancy words. 

Prompt for a newspaper editorial example : Suppose you’re writing an editorial on “economic inflation”. You will need to use some technical terms in your content. To ensure your reader understands your work, explain these terms. Use simple language and easy sentences to convey your message effectively. 

Now let’s get to the editorial format and observe how to structure your content properly. 

Writing an Introduction

Your introduction is the first thing your reader goes through in writing. You need to engage your audience and push them towards the main body of your editorial. To do that, follow these techniques. 

  • Start with catchy quotes, questions or facts. 
  • Hook the audience with a powerful thesis statement. 
  • In an editorial, your argument is your thesis. 

Example of an editorial : 

Let’s say you are writing on “Consumerism Impacts the Environment”. You can use the following fact:

“Consumerism’s impact: If current consumption patterns continue, by 2050, humanity will require the resources of three Earths, leading to environmental degradation and loss of biodiversity. An urgent shift towards sustainable consumption is crucial for a viable future.”

Composing a Body

  • Organize your arguments and supporting evidence logically.
  • Address counterarguments and refute them.
  • Use real-life examples to illustrate your points.

An editorial in newspaper example : Suppose you’re writing a criticism editorial on “Landfills”. You can discuss the impacts they have on the environment. You may also provide a solution and the importance of immediate action.

Composing Conclusion

The  conclusion  is another opportunity to leave a strong impression on the audience. Keeping that in view;

  • Summarize your main points
  • Reinforce your argument
  • End with a call to action or a thought-provoking statement

Example of editorial writing : Suppose you are writing on “climate change”. Encourage readers to take steps to combat climate change and emphasize the issue’s urgency.

Proofread and Edit

Proofreading is essential because it ensures your writing is error-free and effectively communicates your message. This enhances your credibility and leaves a positive impression on your readers. So make sure to;

  • Check for grammar and spelling errors
  • Review the structure and flow of your editorial
  • Ensure your argument is clear and persuasive

After completing your editorial on climate change, proofread it carefully and make any necessary edits to ensure it’s polished and compelling.

By following these steps, you’ll be well on your way to creating an engaging and impactful editorial that resonates with your readers.

Topics For Editorials

Here are some topic ideas to help you decide what to write next. 

  • Exploring the Impact of Social Media on Mental Health
  • The Importance of Investing in Renewable Energy for a Sustainable Future
  • Examining the Role of Big Tech Companies in Protecting User Privacy
  • Addressing the Global Water Crisis: Finding Solutions for Access and Conservation
  • The Need for Comprehensive Immigration Reform: Balancing Security and Compassion
  • The Implications of Artificial Intelligence in the Job Market: Preparing for the Future of Work
  • Bridging the Political Divide: Fostering Civil Discourse in a Polarized Society
  • Examining the Effects of Climate Change on Biodiversity and Ecosystems
  • The Role of Journalism in Upholding Democracy: Preserving Truth and Accountability
  • Exploring the Ethics of Genetic Engineering: Balancing Progress and Responsibility

And there you have it, our easy guide on how to write an editorial! Just follow these simple steps and keep an eye on editorial examples for the practical applications of the tips.

However, some of you might still find it tricky to create an impactful editorial. Don’t worry – our  college paper writing service  has your back. Our talented writers will not only help you meet those deadlines but also bring balance to your busy life. Together, we’ll make sure you achieve your goals in no time.

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Writing Beginner

How To Write An Editorial (7 Easy Steps, Examples, & Guide)

Writing an editorial is one of those things that sounds like it should be pretty straightforward. Easy, even.

But then you sit down to start typing. Your fingers freeze over the keyboard. You gaze into the perfectly blank white space of your computer screen.

Wait , you think. How do I write an editorial ?

Here’s how to write an editorial:

  • Choose a newsworthy topic (Something with broad interest)
  • Choose a clear purpose (This will guide your entire process)
  • Select an editorial type (Opinion, solution, criticism, persuasive, etc)
  • Gather research (Facts, quotes, statistics, etc)
  • Write the editorial (Using an Editorial Template that includes an introduction, argument, rebuttal, and conclusion)
  • Write the headline (Title)
  • Edit your editorial (Grammar, facts, spelling, structure, etc)

In this article, we’ll go through each of these steps in detail so that you know exactly how to write an editorial.

What Is an Editorial? (Quick Definition)

Stack of newspapers - How To Write an Editorial

Before we jump into the mechanics of how to write an editorial, it’s helpful to get a good grasp on the definition of editorials.

Here is a simple definition to get us started:

An editorial is a brief essay-style piece of writing from a newspaper, magazine, or other publication. An editorial is generally written by the editorial staff, editors, or writers of a publication.

Of course, there’s a lot more to it than simply dashing out an essay.

There is the purpose, different types of editorials, elements of a good editorial, structure, steps to writing an editorial, and the actual mechanics of writing your editorial.

“In essence, an editorial is an opinionated news story.” – Alan Weintraut

What Is the Purpose of an Editorial?

The purpose of an editorial is to share a perspective, persuade others of your point of view, and possibly propose a solution to a problem.

The most important part is to pick one purpose and stick to it.

Rambling, incoherent editorials won’t do. They won’t get you the results or the response you might want.

When it comes to purpose, you want:

  • Singular focus
  • Personal connection

The first two probably make sense with no explanation. That last one (personal connection) deserves more attention.

The best editorials arise from personal passions, values, and concerns. You will naturally write with vigor and voice. Your emotion will find its way into your words.

Every bit of this will make your editorials instantly more compelling.

What Are the Different Types of Editorials?

There are two main types of editorials and a number of different subtypes.

One of the first steps in how to write an editorial is choosing the right type for your intended purpose or desired outcome.

The two main types of editorials:

Opinion Editorial

In an opinion editorial, the author shares a personal opinion about a local or national issue.

The issue can be anything from local regulations to national human trafficking.

Typically, the topic of an editorial is related to the topics covered in the publication. Some publications, like newspapers, cover many topics.

Solution Editorial

In a solution editorial, the author offers a solution to a local or national problem.

It’s often recommended for the author of solution editorials to cite credible sources as evidence for the validity of the proposed solution (BTW, research is also important for opinion editorials).

There are also several editorial subtypes based on purpose:

  • Explain (you can explain a person, place, or thing)
  • Criticism (you can critically examine a person, place, or thing)
  • Praise (celebrate a person, place, or thing)
  • Defend (you can defend a person, place, or thing)
  • Endorsement (support a person, place, or thing)
  • Catalyst (for conversation or change)

How To Write an Editorial (7 Easy Steps)

As a reminder, you can write an editorial by following seven simple steps.

  • Choose a topic
  • Choose a purpose
  • Select an editorial type
  • Gather research
  • Write the editorial
  • Write the headline
  • Edit your editorial

If you want a short, visual explanation of how to write an editorial, check out this video from a bona fide New York Times Editor:

1) Choose a Newsworthy Topic

How do you choose a topic for your editorial?

You have several options. Your best bet is to go with a topic about which you feel strongly and that has broad appeal.

Consider these questions:

  • What makes you angry?
  • What makes your blood boil?
  • What gets you excited?
  • What is wrong with your community or the world?

When you write from a place of passion, you imbue your words with power. That’s how to write an editorial that resonates with readers.

2) Choose a Purpose

The next step for how to write an editorial is to choose your purpose.

What do you want to accomplish with your editorial? What ultimate outcome do you desire? Answering these questions will both focus your editorial and help you select the most effective editorial type.

Remember: a best practice is honing in on one specific purpose.

Your purpose might be:

  • To trigger a specific action (such as voting)
  • To raise awareness
  • To change minds on an issue

3) Select a type

Now it’s time to select the best editorial type for your writing. Your type should align with your purpose.

In fact, your purpose probably tells you exactly what kind of editorial to write.

First, determine which major type of editorial best fits your purpose. You can do this by asking yourself, “Am I giving an opinion or offering a solution?”

Second, select your subtype. Again, look to your purpose. Do you want to explain? Persuade? Endorse? Defend?

Select one subtype and stick to it.

4) Gather Research

Don’t neglect this important step.

The research adds value, trust, credibility, and strength to your argument. Think of research as evidence. What kind of evidence do you need?

You might need:

  • Research findings

All of these forms of evidence strengthen your argument.

Shoot for a mix of evidence that combines several different variations. For example, include an example, some statistics, and research findings.

What you want to avoid:

  • Quote, quote, quote
  • Story, story, story

Pro tip: you can find research articles related to your topic by going to Google Scholar.

For other evidence, try these sources:

  • US Census Bureau
  • US Government
  • National Bureau of Economic Research

You might also want to check with your local librarian and community Chamber of Commerce for local information.

5) Write Your Editorial

Finally, you can start writing your editorial.

Aim to keep your editorial shorter than longer. However, there is no set length for an editorial.

For a more readable editorial, keep your words and sentences short. Use simple, clear language. Avoid slang, acronyms, or industry-specific language.

If you need to use specialized language, explain the words and terms to the reader.

The most common point of view in editorials is first person plural. In this point of view, you use the pronouns “we” and “us.”

When writing your editorial, it’s helpful to follow an Editorial Template. The best templates include all of the essential parts of an editorial.

Here is a basic Editorial template you can follow:

Introduction Response/Reaction Evidence Rebuttal Conclusion

Here is a brief breakdown of each part of an editorial:

Introduction: The introduction is the first part of an editorial. It is where the author introduces the topic that they will be discussing. In an editorial, the author typically responds to a current event or issue.

Response/Reaction: The response/reaction is the part of the editorial where the author gives their opinion on the topic. They state their position and give reasons for why they believe what they do.

Evidence: The evidence is typically a series of facts or examples that support the author’s position. These can be statistics, quotations from experts, or personal experiences.

Rebuttal: The rebuttal is the part of the editorial where the author addresses any arguments or counter-arguments that may be raised against their position. They refute these arguments and offer additional evidence to support their point of view.

Conclusion: The conclusion is the last part of an editorial. It wraps up the author’s argument and provides a final statement on the topic.

6) Write The Headline

Your headline must be catchy, not clickbait. There’s a fine line between the two, and it’s not always a clear line.

Characteristics of a catchy headline:

  • Makes the reader curious
  • Includes at least one strong emotion
  • Clearly reveals the subject of the editorial
  • Short and sweet
  • Doesn’t overpromise or mislead (no clickbait)

Your headline will either grab a reader’s attention or it will not. I suggest you spend some time thinking about your title. It’s that important. You can also learn how to write headlines from experts.

Use these real editorial headlines as a source of inspiration to come up with your own:

  • We Came All This Way to Let Vaccines Go Bad in the Freezer?
  • What’s the matter with Kansas?
  • War to end all wars
  • Still No Exit
  • Zimbabwe’s Stolen Election
  • Running out of time
  • Charter Schools = Choices

Suggested read: How To Write an Autobiography

7) Edit Your Editorial

The final step is to edit and proofread your editorial.

You will want to check your editorial for typos, spelling, grammatical, and punctuation mistakes.

I suggest that you also review your piece for structure, tone, voice, and logical flaws.

Your editorial will be out in the public domain where any troll with a keyboard or smartphone (which, let’s be honest, is everyone) can respond to you.

If you’ve done your job, your editorial will strike a nerve.

You might as well assume that hordes of people might descend on your opinion piece to dissect every detail. So check your sources. Check the accuracy of dates, numbers, and figures in your piece.

Double-check the spelling of names and places. Make sure your links work.

Triple-check everything.

Editorial Structures and Outlines

As you learn how to write an editorial, you have many choices.

One choice is your selection of structure.

There are several editorial structures, outlines, and templates. Choose the one that best fits your topic, purpose, and editorial type.

Every editorial will have a beginning, middle, and end.

Here are a few specific structures you can use:

  • Problem, Solution, Call to Action
  • Story, Message, Call to Action
  • Thesis, Evidence, Recommendation
  • Your View, Opposing Views, Conclusion

How Do You Start an Editorial?

A common way to start an editorial is to state your point or perspective.

Here are a few other ways to start your editorial:

  • The problem
  • Startling statement
  • Tell a story
  • Your solution

Other than the headline, the beginning of your editorial is what will grab your reader.

If you want to write an editorial that gets read, then you must write a powerful opening.

How Do You End an Editorial?

You can end with a call-to-action, a thoughtful reflection, or a restatement of your message.

Keep in mind that the end of your editorial is what readers will most likely remember.

You want your ending to resonate, to charge your reader with emotion, evidence, and excitement to take action.

After all, you wrote the editorial to change something (minds, policies, approaches, etc.).

In a few sections (see below), you will learn a few simple templates that you can “steal” to help you end your editorial. Of course, you don’t have to use the templates.

They are just suggestions.

Often, the best way to conclude is to restate your main point.

What Makes a Good Editorial?

Even if you learn how to write an editorial, it doesn’t mean the editorial will automatically be good. You may be asking, What makes a good editorial ?

A good editorial is clear, concise, and compelling.

Therefore, the best editorials are thought out with a clear purpose and point of view. What you want to avoid is a rambling, journal-type essay. This will be both confusing and boring to the reader.

That’s the last thing you want.

Here are some other elements of a good editorial:

  • Clear and vivid voice
  • Interesting point of view
  • Gives opposing points of view
  • Backed up by credible sources
  • Analyzes a situation
“A good editorial is contemporary without being populist.” —Ajai Singh and Shakuntala Singh

How Do You Know If You’ve Written a Good Editorial?

Many people want to know how to tell if they have written a good editorial.

How do you know?

You can tell by the response you get from the readers. A good editorial sparks a community conversation. A good editorial might also result in some type of action based on the solution you propose.

An article by Ajai Singh and Shakuntala Singh in Mens Sana Monograph says this about good editorials:

It tackles recent events and issues, and attempts to formulate viewpoints based on an objective analysis of happenings and conflicting/contrary opinions. Hence a hard-hitting editorial is as legitimate as a balanced equipoise that reconciles apparently conflicting positions and controversial posturings, whether amongst politicians (in news papers), or amongst researchers (in academic journals).

Note that newsworthy events, controversy, and balance matter in editorials.

It’s also a best practice to include contradicting opinions in your piece. This lends credibility and even more balance to your peice.

Editorial Examples & Templates

As you write your own editorial, study the following example templates “stolen” from real editorials.

You can use these templates as “sentence starters” to inspire you to write your own completely original sentences.

Phrases for the beginning:

  • It’s been two weeks since…
  • Look no further than…
  • The country can’t…

Phrases for the middle:

  • That’s an astonishing failure
  • It should never have come to this
  • Other [counties, states, countries, etc.] are…
  • Within a few days…
  • Not everyone shares my [opinion, pessimism, optimism]
  • Officials say…

Phrases for the end:

  • Let’s commit to…
  • Finally…
  • If we can…we will…

Honestly, the best way to learn how to write an editorial is to read and study as many published editorials as possible. The more you study, the better you will understand what works.

Study more editorials at these links:

  • New York Times editorials
  • USA Today editorials
  • The Washington Post

How To Write an Editorial for Students

Writing an editorial for students is virtually the same as writing an editorial at any other time.

However, your teacher or professor might give you specific instructions, guidelines, and restrictions. You’ll want to read all of these thoroughly, get clarity, and follow the “rules” as much as possible.

Writing an editorial is a skill that will come in handy throughout your life. Whether you’re writing a letter to the editor of your local paper or creating a post for your blog, being able to communicate your ideas clearly and persuasively is an important skill. Here are some tips to help you write an effective editorial:

  • Know your audience. Who are you writing for? What are their concerns and interests? Keep this in mind as you craft your message.
  • Make a clear argument. What is it that you want your readers to know? What do you want them to do? Be sure to state your case clearly and concisely.
  • Support your argument with evidence. Use facts, statistics, and expert opinions to make your case.
  • Use strong language . Choose words that will resonate with your readers and make them want to take action.
  • Be persuasive, not blasting. You want your readers to be convinced by your argument, not turned off by aggressive language. Stay calm and collected as you make your case.

By following these tips, you can write an effective student editorial that will get results.

What Is an Editorial In a Newspaper?

The editorial section of a newspaper is where the publication’s editorial board weighs in on important issues facing the community. This section also includes columns from guest writers and staff members, as well as letters to the editor.

The editorial board is made up of the publication’s top editors, who are responsible for setting the tone and direction of the paper.

In addition to op-eds, the editorial section also features editorials, which are written by the editorial board and represent the official position of the paper on an issue.

While editorial boards may lean one way or another politically, they strive to present both sides of every issue in a fair and unbiased way.

Ultimately, the goal of the editorial section is to promote thoughtful discussion and debate on the topics that matter most to readers.

Final Thoughts: How To Write an Editorial

Whew , we have covered a lot of ground in this article. I hope that you have gained everything you need to know about how to write an editorial.

There are a lot of details that go into writing a good editorial.

If you get confused or overwhelmed, know that you are not alone. Know that many other writers have been there before, and have struggled with the same challenges.

Mostly, know that you got this .

Related posts:

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  • Best AI Essay Writer (With Examples)
  • The Best Writing Books for Beginners

National Institute of Health (On Editorials)

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How To Write An Editorial

Barbara P

Learn How to Write an Editorial on Any Topic

13 min read

Published on: Dec 23, 2019

Last updated on: Nov 22, 2023

How to Write an Editorial

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Share this article

Are you interested in learning how to effectively shape your perspective in an editorial that holds the power to persuade people?

Having the ability to influence people’s views and perspectives through your writing is an admirable talent. But not everyone is blessed with this talent!

Well, an editorial expresses your opinion about any current topic with the aim of persuading the reader to see things from your perspective. 

In this blog, we’ll introduce you to the 4 types of editorials and an easy step-by-step procedure on how to write a compelling editorial. Also, you’ll benefit from the editorial examples and tips we’ve included.

So, let’s get going! 

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What is an Editorial?

An editorial is a newspaper article that contains and explains the author’s ideas. It can be written on any topic, but usually covers social issues. For an editorial, you always have to provide enough evidence from credible sources.

Editorials are featured in magazines and journals as well. Here the editors make claims or aim to create discussion about their publication. They express viewpoints and analyze trending topics critically. 

A well-written editorial must contain the problem’s description and the possible solutions to the problem. When writing about a specific issue, the writer is expected to give recommendations. 

You should create a message for those who are suffering from that issue and what it takes to improve the situation. Besides, you get a chance to speak to the government and request them to take measures to solve the problem. 

Remember that an editorial is different from an article. Read the comparison below for a better understanding. 

What is the Difference between an Editorial and an Article? 

Both an editorial and an article are the parts of a newspaper. While many people believe that both are the same, there are some key differences between them. 

As said before, an editorial is written by the editor in charge of the newspaper and expresses the views of the editor or the editorial board.

It is an opinionated piece of writing, and it is written to influence the thought process and viewpoint of the readers.

All the other news in a newspaper are called articles. These could be news articles, sports news, or any other relevant news. Usually, it is fact-based, as the writer will have a narrow chance of adding their opinion.

Now, let’s see what are the 4 types of editorials. 

Types of Editorial

Although the goal of an editorial is to somehow persuade the readers, there are some types of editorial styles. They are:

  • Interpret and Explain: This type focuses on providing analysis, background information, and interpretation of a particular issue or event. It aims to help readers comprehend complex topics or developments.
  • Persuade : This type of editorial is written with the sole aim of persuading people to change their viewpoints or to undertake an action. With reasoning, evidence, and facts, the author portrays the solution to a specific issue. 
  • Criticize : This editorial type highlights the issues or shortcomings in a person, decision, or action. The goal is to highlight the problem and suggest a possible solution. 
  • Praise : In a praising editorial, the author commends and shows praise for a person, idea, or organization. The focus is on highlighting the positive aspects of the subject.  

Now, let’s dive into the steps you should take to write a compelling editorial. 

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How to Write an Editorial Article?

The following steps will help you in writing an editorial piece that can persuade readers to agree with your opinion. 

Step 1. Choose a Topic

Editorials aim to promote critical thinking and persuade people to change their minds on a topic by influencing their opinions. Make sure to choose an interesting topic, a controversial subject, or something that has a purpose.

Controversial topics are a great way to stir debate and get the readers engaged right from the start. With opinion pieces, you have to focus on recent stories that people are talking about. 

Step 2. Research Thoroughly 

Take time and research all aspects of your topic and find all the reasons behind the issue. Look for relevant evidence and examples to support your opinion. Gather all the latest facts and information from credible sources. 

Step 3. Pick a Side 

Make sure to pick a side and create a valid opinion to know what you are talking about. For a valid opinion, you must come up with logical reasoning. Pay careful attention to this step and provide clear reasons to show why your side is the right one. 

Step 4. Define Your Thesis Statement 

After picking your side, articulate your main message or opinion in a concise thesis statement . This statement should address the core argument you will be making in your editorial.

Step 5. Build a Strong Argument 

Now it’s time to structure your argument and back it up with facts. Each point you will address in your argument should correspond to your thesis statement. 

Using examples to support your arguments is a great way to increase the strength of your claims.

Step 6. Consider the Counterargument 

It is a good practice to consider and acknowledge the opposing arguments that relate to your topic of discussion. For a balanced outlook, you should include opposing views in your editorial.

Your editorial will give an unbiased and thoughtful outlook to the reader if you include opposing opinions.

Step 7. Start Writing the Editorial 

After coming up with a valid opinion and supportive arguments, it is time to start the actual writing process. Make sure this writing is short and clear so that the readers do not get bored and easily understand your point of view. 

Start your editorial with a strong hook to catch the reader’s attention right from the start. You can also start your editorial with a question, quote, or summary of what the editorial is all about. 

The body of your work should objectively explain the issue and why the situation is important to handle. Try to cover all the bases and include facts and quotations from credible sources. 

Conclude your editorial with a noteworthy statement. In this section, you can again include quotations or a question to make the ending worth remembering. 

Step 8. Edit and Proofread 

It is essential to go through your writing multiple times and make sure it's free from grammar, punctuation, and spelling mistakes. If you are unable to do this on your own then ask someone else for feedback so that no errors slip by. 

The PDFs below can help you understand how to write an editorial title and pitch to keep the readers hooked throughout the document.

How to Write an Editorial Pitch

How To Write an Editorial Title

How to Write an Editorial for a Journal?

For a journal editorial, there are slightly different rules and criteria that the article and editorial writers have to follow.

For a journal editorial, follow the below guidelines:

Step 1. Choose a Thought-Provoking Topic 

Since an editorial is a thoughtful piece of writing, you must choose a significant topic and strike a thought in the readers. The topic should be as per the nature and topic of the journal, as if it is a medical journal; you must choose a topic belonging to the medical field.

Step 2. Add the Introduction and Thesis of the Chosen Issue 

Introduce the editorial's issue or topic and incorporate a thesis statement outlining the subject matter. An editorial aims to uncover and present an issue, delving into its significance, effects, and potential solutions.

Step 3. Explain the Background of the Problem 

It is common knowledge that every problem has a background. In this section of the editorial, mention and explain the background of the said issue. 

Also, answer the following questions:

How did it occur?  What are its consequences and effects?  What is its impact on the larger public? 

These are some of the questions that you will need to address and answer in this section.

Step 4. Present the Main Argument with Evidence 

Highlight the main points you wish to discuss and substantiate them with relevant evidence. Seek credibility by referencing previous publications and online sources, strengthening the points articulated in the editorial.

Step 5. Write the Conclusion of your Editorial 

The conclusion is the last section of the editorial, and this is where you will conclude your editorial. Finally, wind it up by adding a call to action and personal viewpoint by proposing ways to manage the discussed issue.

Look at this PDF below to understand how to write an impressive editorial for a medical journal.

How to Write an Editorial for A Medical Journal

If you’re a student who needs an editorial for school newspapers, you can get help from the below example to up your editorial writing game.

How to Write An Editorial for Students

How to Write an Editorial for a Newspaper

How to Write an Editorial Letter?

An editorial letter is a letter to the editor of the newspaper, magazine, or any other daily publication. These letters are an important part of a publication, as they represent the voice of the general public.

Usually, these letters are either added on the first page of the newspaper or the last page. 

To write an editorial letter, follow the below steps:

Step 1. Start the Letter with a Salutation

For this, you do not need to know the name of the editor. You can simply add ‘ Letter to the Editor’ as a salutation. However, if you know the name of the editor, then use the name.

Step 2. Start with an Engaging Sentence

The opening is important to grab the attention of the readers. Instead of beating around the bush, get to the point. Tell the reader about the subject of your letter and make it convincing for them.

Step 3. Explain the Importance of the Issue 

Remember that you are writing the letter because you think the issue is significant in your eyes. You have to explain why the issue is significant because the reader may not feel the same emotions. So briefly outline the background and importance of the issue.

Why do you feel that the issue needs to be addressed? Why are you writing this letter? Answer the questions in plain and simple language so that your readers can understand them easily.

Step 4. Provide Relevant Evidence

Provide proof and evidence about the issue that you are discussing. Some key evidence could be found in the cuttings of the newspapers and magazines. Use them to highlight the issue and the need for its solution.

Step 5. Add your Suggestions about the Issues 

What are your thoughts about the issue in question? What do you think should be done to handle the situation? Answer these questions by expressing your views, and giving suggestions to solve the issue. 

Step 6. Keep the Letter Brief and Concise 

Shorter and more focused letters are more likely to be accepted for publication. Once you are done with the letter’s writing, read it and see if anything could be deducted.

In case you feel that the issue will not be covered in an editorial letter, ask the editor to allow you to write a guest column or a feature.

Step 7. Add your Signature 

Newspapers and other publications do not like and publish anonymous letters. After you are done with the writing part, add your full name, contact number, email address, and home address with it. 

Step 8. Revise your Letter 

Make sure that you revise and edit your paper properly before posting it. Check it for clarity as the newspapers prefer well-written, well-researched, and brief letters.

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How to Write an Editorial for a Magazine?

Generally, an editorial in a school and college magazine is written to inform the readers about the magazine’s content. It reflects the culture and standards of the school or college.

It has three parts, like an essay, that includes an introduction, main body paragraphs, and conclusion. 

Some general guidelines for a magazine editorial are given below:

  • It should not be more than 250 words long
  • Pick a side and talk about it only. Do not try to cover everything
  • Don’t write from the first-person perspective.
  • Try not to exaggerate and write everything as it is
  • Use active voice and avoid passive voice as much as possible
  • Avoid using run-on sentences
  • Create a rhythm by adding short and long sentences, and simple and complex words
  • Try to add a tinge of entertainment to your writing

The introduction introduces the magazine's main topic and contribution to public interest. In the main paragraphs, the writer explains the articles and photos, showing their connection to the magazine's main theme.

The conclusion wraps up the main points addressed in the editorial. It provides a summary of the magazine’s main theme and its significance. 

how-to-write-an-editorial-for-a-magazine-example

How to Write an Editorial Response?

An editorial review is different from writing an editorial. Reviewing an editorial is the next step in the editorial publishing process. Like editorial writing, editorial review writing has a process that the reviewer must follow when reviewing an editorial.

Though, as a writer, editorial reviewing is not the work of the writer but sometimes the teacher may ask the students to review the editorial. In case you get any such assignment, follow the below steps:

Step 1. Read the Entire Manuscript Properly

Before starting with the editorial reviewing and proofreading the content manuscript, read the document completely. Give suggestions, and changes, and rearrange the content afterward. Try to understand the purpose of the writer, audience, organization of the content, and thought.

Step 2. Make Notes While Reading the Manuscript

When reading the manuscript, make notes by marking the sections and paragraphs in the manuscript. You can mark them as vague, irrelevant, grammatically incorrect, or inconsistent.

This way, you will know where you will need to make the changes. It also helps you in keeping track of the changes that you need to make in the document.

Step 3. Add the Respective Issues

Once you are done with the marking, reread the content and the paragraphs you have marked and mention their issues. These issues could be anything like weakness of narrative, the irrelevance of the content, shortage of proof and evidence, or grammatical or stylistic errors.

Step 4. Make Recommendations about the Issues

Once you have detected the issues, make recommendations about why the paragraph is lacking. Add the suggestions in a separate file or directly on the document and in the column beside the paragraphs.

Suggest the style of writing, the relevancy of the evidence, or any grammatical issues. Other suggestions may include:

  • Clarity of the content
  • Suitability of the content for the intended audience
  • Structure of the manuscript
  • Grammatical structure
  • The flow of the content

Step 5. Check for Punctuation and other Writing Mechanics

Check the entire document for punctuation and writing mechanics. Here, you can suggest the sections and numbering of the paragraphs. You can also suggest a way of writing that will be more appropriate for the audience.

Are Editorials Just Opinion Pieces?

An editorial and an opinionated article may seem the same, but they are somewhat different from each other. An editorial is usually written by the newspaper's editor in charge and may not have the writer's name.

An opinion piece does not have to be published in a newspaper. It could be anywhere, even online. But if you have written the piece for a newspaper, it will be identified as an Opinion Editorial or an Opposite Editorial (Op-Ed). 

Editorial Ideas

If you are unable to come up with good ideas for your editorial, here are some of the most current topics that you can have a look at.

  • Global warming effects on earth
  • Should gay marriages be allowed?
  • Should marijuana be legalized?
  • Is euthanasia immoral?
  • Do people complain too much?
  • Is there such a thing as a Facebook addict?
  • The dangers of social media addiction
  • Benefits of Organic Food Consumption
  • Benefits of Reading
  • Should cigarettes be banned?

Editorial Example

Editorial writing is a type that can be hard to explain, and typically, it is a combination of facts and opinions. Take a look at this example to learn the whole writing process better. 

 Editorial Writing Sample

To Wrap It Up, Writing an editorial is a  difficult and a huge step in your career, especially when aspiring to become a writer or a journalist. However, you can follow the steps mentioned above to write an interesting editorial.

Having read the detailed guide for writing different types of editorials, you should be able to persuade people with your words in an editorial. Still, we understand that editorial writing is not an easy task for all!

If you are confused and need some help, seeking professional assistance is always an option. Our expert writers are available 24/7 to assist you with all the ‘do my paper’ queries. Rest assured, we offer the best essay writing service to all our customers. 

Contact our support team and get a head start on your editorial writing journey!

Frequently Asked Questions

Who writes an editorial.

Editorials are written by the newspaper's editor or the editorial board, representing the collective viewpoint of the editorial team.

What makes a good opinion editorial?

Op-eds are most effective when they articulate a clear opinion, substantiate it with evidence, and incorporate specific individuals in the provided examples.

Barbara P (Literature, Marketing)

Dr. Barbara is a highly experienced writer and author who holds a Ph.D. degree in public health from an Ivy League school. She has worked in the medical field for many years, conducting extensive research on various health topics. Her writing has been featured in several top-tier publications.

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How To Write An Editorial

Last updated on: Nov 20, 2023

Learn How To Write An Editorial By Experts

By: Cordon J.

Reviewed By: Chris H.

Published on: Sep 14, 2021

How to Write an Editorial

An editorial is a newspaper article that presents the author’s point of view on different topics and issues. Students are often assigned to write editorials of school newspapers.

When assigned to write an editorial piece, you must understand the characteristics of an editorial that appeal to the reader.

Learn how to write an editorial with this complete guide. Also, find below some editorial topics and examples that may assist you when you begin writing your editorial.

How to Write an Editorial

On this Page

What is an Editorial?

An editorial is an article that expresses the editor's ideas and explains the issue at hand. Just because it is an opinion piece doesn’t mean that the author can write their thoughts merely. They can not write an editorial without conducting research and considering the facts.

To build their argument and persuade the readers, editorial writers must present authentic evidence that will support their opinions.

The aim of an editorial is to present an issue clearly and propose a solution to get rid of it.

Author’s need to address the people currently facing the issue. They also need to tell them what can be done to deal with the situation. If necessary, the author must speak to the government, asking them to take appropriate measures to help combat the situation.

Considering the research and effort that goes into writing an editorial, they can be considered similar to a research paper.

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Types of an Editorial

Typically, there are four different types of editorials, where each serves a unique purpose.

Below is a detailed description of these types.

1. Explain and Interpret – this format gives editors a chance to explain how they tackled sensitive and controversial topics.

2. Criticize – such editorials while focusing on the problem rather than the solution criticize actions, decisions, or certain situations.

3. Persuade – in this format, you propose a solution and convince the readers to take appropriate actions.

4. Praise – this type of editorial is written to show support and commend a notable action of an organization or individual.

How to Write an Editorial?

With social media becoming more popular day by day where everyone can easily express their opinions, people aren't sure of how to write a strong editorial.

Editorials are based on the writer’s opinions. But, if you want the reader to take your word seriously, you must provide facts to support your opinion. Don’t ramble and rant about a personal issue.

Following are the important steps that will help you craft an impressive editorial.

1. Pick a Topic That Will Grab The Reader's Attention

The purpose of an editorial is to change the public’s belief about a particular topic. Or to encourage them to critically analyze issues and, more often than not, suggest a particular course of action.

When brainstorming ideas for your piece, make sure that it is interesting, has a current news angle, and serves a purpose. Sometimes writing on a controversial subject can really help attract the reader.

2. Research and Gather Facts

As an editorial writer, your job is to find the truth about a particular issue. Do your research and look for relevant information so that you can present facts along with your opinion. Go through credible sources only and gather the latest facts.

Check out this detailed blog on the types of research and how to conduct them. It will make this step easier for you.

3. Writing the Editorial

When writing an editorial, keep it short and clear, so the reader stays with you throughout the piece. It shouldn’t be longer than 600 to 800 words. Also, avoid using fancy jargon or technical terms.

  • Introduction

Start the editorial with a unique and catchy question, statistics, facts, and quotations. You could also use any other sentence relevant to the topic that will help grab the reader's attention. Also, present your argument in the form of a thesis statement at this stage.

The body of your editorial piece should explain the issue at hand objectively without any trace of biasedness. Discuss each and every aspect of your topic. Address the 5 W’s and H (what, when, where, who, why, and how.)Start by addressing your opposition, people who have dissimilar views. You can also highlight the positive aspects of the opposition as long as they are factually correct.

Next, you need to refute the opposing side. Provide strong reasons and evidence that can help with the credibility of your stance.

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When addressing a problem, you need to propose a valid and applicable solution.

End the editorial with a strong, thought-provoking statement. Your reader must get a sense of closure and completeness from the ending.

4. Proofread and Edit

Don't forget to go through your article once you are done writing. This will help get rid of otherwise unnoticed mistakes and typos.

Editorial Example

EDITORIAL EXAMPLE PDF

Editorial Topics

Here are some interesting and good ideas to help you write an excellent editorial.

  • The contribution of fast food is making us obese.
  • Should PlayStations be blamed for the death of outdoor activities?
  • The flip side of social media.
  • Should recreational marijuana be legalized?
  • How does recycling help save the environment?
  • The evil that is the selfie culture.NBA season preview.
  • Are e-cigarettes really safe for our health?

We hope that this blog helped answer all of your editorial writing-related queries. In case of any confusion generate sample editorials from our AI paper writer or, feel free to contact 5StarEssays.com and ask to write an essay for me .

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes a good editorial.

Great content needs to be informative, opinionated, and engaging. It should also teach without being pedantic or didactic in order for the reader's attention span to last as long they are reading. Also, keep it as brief as possible.

What are the elements of an editorial?

Following are the main elements of an editorial:

  • Objective explanation
  • Opposing opinions
  • Writer’s opinions

What is editorial style?

Editors use a set of guidelines to help make their words as consistent and effective as possible. This is their specific writing style. It distinguishes their writing from anyone else.

Cordon J.

Speech, Law

Cordon. is a published author and writing specialist. He has worked in the publishing industry for many years, providing writing services and digital content. His own writing career began with a focus on literature and linguistics, which he continues to pursue. Cordon is an engaging and professional individual, always looking to help others achieve their goals.

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Carmine Mastropierro

How to write an editorial – step by step guide, join the newsletter.

Get my latest content on business, marketing, and copywriting.

Trying to write for magazines or other publications and don’t know how to craft an editorial?

No problem .

Today I’m going to show you how to write and format an editorial in a few easy steps.

Editorial writing is very lucrative and fun, making it an awesome avenue for writers.

However, writing editorials that get approved by picky editors can be a whole other ball game.

Follow along as I show you the ropes of editorial writing.

What is an editorial?

First of all, let’s define what an editorial is.

According to Google, it’s:

A newspaper article written by or on behalf of an editor that gives an opinion on a topical issue.

It’s typically focused on a trending topic or something relevant to a certain industry.

Since it’s an opinion based piece, it also requires thorough evidence, statistics, and research to make it credible.

You express a specific opinion and viewpoint when writing an editorial that you attempt to persuade readers into believing.

Editorial format

Let’s break down a live editorial to understanding proper formatting.

It all begins with the headline and featured image .

editorial assignment example

I’ll teach you how to write editorial headlines in a moment, but remember it’s the first thing readers see.

That means if your headline stinks, nobody is going to click through to read the article.

Additionally, in the words of Claude Hopkins , “Images are sales people in themselves.”

Depending on the publication you’re writing for, you may or may not have control over the featured image used for the piece.

However, the picture should preferably support and enhance the topic you’re speaking about.

Moving on, a hook and leading paragraph are the next crucial parts of an editorial to nail .

editorial assignment example

The first sentence or paragraph needs to make a bold statement or interesting observation to capture the reader’s attention.

Note how in this Wired article, the writer mentions how the Department of Housing and Urban Development sued Facebook for violating the Fair Housing Act.

That is serious news .

Anyone interested in big data will be hooked into reading the remaining content.

This is why the leading paragraph needs to support the intro with further detail.

Furthermore, clarification may need to be done around some terms and topics if they are complex in nature like so :

editorial assignment example

Since editorials are opinion based, it’s of utmost importance that you mix in your perspective on things, too .

editorial assignment example

Seldom are editorials written in the first person, though.

Instead, write your opinion as if it’s factual information, and back it up with supporting evidence.

For example, the author of this Wired article elaborates on how Facebook’s targeting and audience system has ethical and technical issues.

As regulations tighten up, this is only going to create more problems for them in the future and it’s deserved in a way.

On the flip side, another writer could’ve supported the idea of Facebook’s approach and that would’ve been their opinion .

See where I’m going with this?

You need to choose one side of the story and stick to it all the way through.

Which brings me to the conclusion :

editorial assignment example

It should summarize the main points of the article and end with a thought-provoking statement.

Publications pay close attention to the conclusion because it’s often what spikes engagement such as comments and social shares.

That’s why I recommend putting a solid effort into polishing off your piece before sending it to an editor.

You can take care of most of these processes with a tool like Jasper.ai which you can try for free here . Watch my review to learn more below.

Editorial examples

Here are great examples of editorials you should swipe.

Use them as inspiration for headlines, formatting , voice, and to reference while writing.

New York Times

This is an editorial example from the New York Times on American and Europe’s digital privacy.

Editorial example

It uses a thought-provoking headline by asking the reader a question. An attention-grabbing and unique image is used to accompany the article.

Note the subhead elaborates on the headline and position the author takes.

The editorial begins with background information on Congress questioning tech CEOs on collecting personal information, the vulnerability of American’s, and how little has been done to move forward.

Editorial intro

They also speak about Europe’s solution to online privacy which American congress needs to learn from. This helps readers understand the topic’s context while stating the author’s position.

The body of the editorial uses quotes, examples, and further information to support its main points.

It’s concluded with a summary of the article and what the author believes the next best steps are.

Editorial end

The Washington Post

Here’s an editorial from The Washington Post on Donald Trump’s presidency and if he should be impeached.

Washington Post editorial

The headline is provocative, makes a bold statement, and addresses a specific party (Congress).

The video underneath serves as a featured image and provides more information.

The author, Danielle Allen, immediately states her position that impeachment isn’t just a political question but a legal and moral one as well.

She asks questions to engage the audience and get them thinking.

Danielle elaborates on very specific parts of the Constitution to support her claims about impeachment, how it works, and what it means.

She concludes the editorial by recapping her stance that Congress should audit the president and if he’s committed an impeachable crime according to the books.

Washington Post end

The Huffington Post

Next we have an editorial example from The Huffington Post on climate change.

I love the headline. By not directly saying what the scandal is, it makes you wonder and click the article.

Huff Post

The subhead provides more context and creates a sense of urgency be saying global warming is increasing an billions of people are at risk.

A stage is set in the first couple of paragraphs by elaborating on how there are plans to protect the economy, jobs, but nothing from climate change.

The author cites specific events, summits, data, and findings that all back up their claims that global warming is rising and not enough action is being taken to prevent it.

Note how the last few paragraphs of the editorial focus on what can be done to solve the issue. They present their opinions and ideas which is what editorial style is all about.

How to write an editorial

Now that you understand how editorials are formatted, let’s dive deeper into editorial

Step 1: Find an epic topic to cover

If you want to get accepted by an editor of a publication, your pitch better be really damn good .

They don’t want generic or simple topics, but rather ones that cover a popular subject with your own unique twist.

For example, the Toronto Raptors just won the NBA Finals, so you could write a piece on “What Entrepreneurs Can Learn From The Toronto Raptors Winning The Finals.”

This article could elaborate on how their team’s training style and strategies can be applied to businesses.

It’s a random example but stick with me.

You could also search for keywords through Google News to brainstorm.

Cannabis is really big in Canada with legalization being relatively new, so I searched for that:

editorial assignment example

Based on the first result, you could pitch an article on why you don’t think Ottawa’s legal cannabis edibles are a good decision for the city.

This is what we would call a response post .

It reacts to an existing story and provides another opinion on the matter.

Make sure you read the guidelines for the publication you’re writing for, as they may have restrictions or tips for topics.

Once you have an idea for a topic, consider the audience you’re writing for .

What do they care about? What do they want to learn? What are their demographics?

This will change you write and shape the editorial.

You want it to resonate with the section’s audience as much as possible.

That’s why I suggest reading previous articles and analyzing reader’s engagement.

What do they normally comment on? Do you notice a pattern in how they speak?

Apply these observations to your editorial, and it will resonate with the target audience more.

Lastly, make sure to collect resources, references, and data to support the article.

Continuing off of the cannabis example, you could search for “cannabis stats” and use a couple of the results to back up points you make.

editorial assignment example

Once you’ve done this, you can move onto the next step.

Step 2: Craft a headline that makes BuzzFeed proud

As I mentioned earlier, the headline is what will ultimately attract clicks, so you need to put a lot of energy into writing one.

BuzzFeed has the reputation of being the king of clickbait, but it isn’t a bad thing.

From a writer’s perspective, we can learn a ton about how to write headlines from them.

Just look at their front page:

editorial assignment example

It’s a gold mine for ideas!

Some strategies you can use for headline copywriting include:

  • Explanatory : “George Bush Wears The Latest Yeezy’s to Summit, And We’re Trying to Figure Out Why” is an example of a headline that clearly explains what the article is about. There’s no mystery or questions needed.
  • Bold : Making a bold statement in the headline like “Scientists Find The Link Between Beer and Mortality” compels users to read the editorial to learn more.
  • Question : Some editorial headlines come in the form of a question that resonates with the audience. “Trying to Lose Weight? You Won’t Believe What This Doctor Discovered” is an example.

Step 3: Make the outline

Before you begin writing your award-winning editorial, slow your horses.

Start with an outline. It’s a staple part of forming the editorial structure.

This will speed up the writing process and make your workflow smooth as silk.

An outline should consist of:

  • The headline
  • The introduction and hook
  • Major and minor points

You don’t need to spend a lot of time on the outline, either.

It simply acts as an organized guideline for when you crack your knuckles and begin typing away.

Make sure that you have all of your resources and references opened up or saved, too.

I recommend that you read my two previous articles to speed up your writing process:

  • 8 Insanely Effective Tips on How to Overcome Writer’s Block
  • Writing Process Steps For Producing Incredible Copy

This video will also help you with the writing process.

Step 4: Write that bad boy!

Editorials have an opinion, and that opinion needs to be strong .

That means don’t use passive speak or weak arguments to back up any points.

The idea you’re proposing is the ultimate truth in your eyes, so you have to write in that manner.

If you read a lot of editorials, you will notice that they are written and edited to support a single idea.

Stick with that all the way through until the end.

Take a firm stance on the topic and position. If you ever mention an opposing view, make sure to explain why it isn’t correct. Be confident and use facts to support any claims.

At the same time, I recommend offering new ideas. Say something that hasn’t been said before … discuss a new angle … bring up data most people aren’t aware of. This will make it stand out.

I’m a huge advocate of practical content as well. Editorials are no different.

Don’t just take about an issue or a topic. Talk about how it can be solved and give the reader actionable takeaways. Editorials become much more useful and memorable this way.

Some other editorial writing tips I have:

  • Write several different headline ideas and pick the best one.
  • Edit and proofread the hell out of the article once it’s done. Continually reference the publication’s editorial guidelines to ensure it’s perfect.
  • Share the first draft with other writers, family, and friends to get their opinion.
  • Don’t underestimate the power of sleeping on your writing. You’ll feel refreshed and approach the article with a clear mind the next day.

Who writes editorials?

Editorials are primarily written by writing staff working for magazines, websites, and other publications.

These pieces of content are handed off to an editor who will fix grammar, spelling, flow, mistakes, and other components.

An editor in chief will oversee all of the writers, editors, and staff that play a role in publishing editorials on a regular basis.

You can also be a freelance editorial writer. In this case, you contact out your writing services to many different publications at once.

It’s a great way to earn income and be your own boss. Check out my free courses to learn more.

Why write editorials

So, why should a business write editorials and what are the benefits of doing so?

Firstly, editorials are suitable for any publication that likes to keep their readers informed about recent news and events.

Look at Fortune, Entrepreneur, The LA Times, and similar publications.

They are pushing out content many times per day because there’s a constant flow of news to touch on.

This helps form your business into a thought leader and a trustworthy source of information.

Furthermore, editorials are much shorter in length than other forms of content which makes pumping out many easier.

You will also need a great team of writers and editors if you don’t have already one established.

Hopping on trends and waves will give your publication an immediate spike in traffic which is another benefit of writing editorials.

Similarly, this type of content is easily digestible and commonly shared which creates a viral effect.

Can an editorial be in first person?

Absolutely. You’ll notice that many editorials are written in first person depending on the individual publication and story.

Furthermore, all editorials found in the opinion sections of a publication will be in the first person because they are meant to share personal views.

Look at this editorial from The New York Times, for example.

The New York Times editorial

The very first word is “I.”

Once again, keep in mind that the story being covered will usually decide whether or not a first person perspective is appropriate or not.

Final thoughts on how to write an editorial

Editorials are articles that share news and personal opinions on topics that matter.

They are typically written about current events and subjects that readers are already familiar with.

Every great editorial begins with an eye-catching image and headline, as well. This is the bait that gets the reader into the article.

Then, the first paragraph needs to be easy to read while naturally leading to the rest of the content.

Demystifying complex terms and mixing in your own opinion are two keys to a good editorial. This makes it simpler to understand while unique since nobody has your opinion but you .

Write a clear conclusion that sums up the major points and creates the opportunity for readers to leave their opinion. Remember, news outlets thrive off of engagement.

Still want to learn more? Check out my online courses .

Carmine

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The Writing Center • University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

Understanding Assignments

What this handout is about.

The first step in any successful college writing venture is reading the assignment. While this sounds like a simple task, it can be a tough one. This handout will help you unravel your assignment and begin to craft an effective response. Much of the following advice will involve translating typical assignment terms and practices into meaningful clues to the type of writing your instructor expects. See our short video for more tips.

Basic beginnings

Regardless of the assignment, department, or instructor, adopting these two habits will serve you well :

  • Read the assignment carefully as soon as you receive it. Do not put this task off—reading the assignment at the beginning will save you time, stress, and problems later. An assignment can look pretty straightforward at first, particularly if the instructor has provided lots of information. That does not mean it will not take time and effort to complete; you may even have to learn a new skill to complete the assignment.
  • Ask the instructor about anything you do not understand. Do not hesitate to approach your instructor. Instructors would prefer to set you straight before you hand the paper in. That’s also when you will find their feedback most useful.

Assignment formats

Many assignments follow a basic format. Assignments often begin with an overview of the topic, include a central verb or verbs that describe the task, and offer some additional suggestions, questions, or prompts to get you started.

An Overview of Some Kind

The instructor might set the stage with some general discussion of the subject of the assignment, introduce the topic, or remind you of something pertinent that you have discussed in class. For example:

“Throughout history, gerbils have played a key role in politics,” or “In the last few weeks of class, we have focused on the evening wear of the housefly …”

The Task of the Assignment

Pay attention; this part tells you what to do when you write the paper. Look for the key verb or verbs in the sentence. Words like analyze, summarize, or compare direct you to think about your topic in a certain way. Also pay attention to words such as how, what, when, where, and why; these words guide your attention toward specific information. (See the section in this handout titled “Key Terms” for more information.)

“Analyze the effect that gerbils had on the Russian Revolution”, or “Suggest an interpretation of housefly undergarments that differs from Darwin’s.”

Additional Material to Think about

Here you will find some questions to use as springboards as you begin to think about the topic. Instructors usually include these questions as suggestions rather than requirements. Do not feel compelled to answer every question unless the instructor asks you to do so. Pay attention to the order of the questions. Sometimes they suggest the thinking process your instructor imagines you will need to follow to begin thinking about the topic.

“You may wish to consider the differing views held by Communist gerbils vs. Monarchist gerbils, or Can there be such a thing as ‘the housefly garment industry’ or is it just a home-based craft?”

These are the instructor’s comments about writing expectations:

“Be concise”, “Write effectively”, or “Argue furiously.”

Technical Details

These instructions usually indicate format rules or guidelines.

“Your paper must be typed in Palatino font on gray paper and must not exceed 600 pages. It is due on the anniversary of Mao Tse-tung’s death.”

The assignment’s parts may not appear in exactly this order, and each part may be very long or really short. Nonetheless, being aware of this standard pattern can help you understand what your instructor wants you to do.

Interpreting the assignment

Ask yourself a few basic questions as you read and jot down the answers on the assignment sheet:

Why did your instructor ask you to do this particular task?

Who is your audience.

  • What kind of evidence do you need to support your ideas?

What kind of writing style is acceptable?

  • What are the absolute rules of the paper?

Try to look at the question from the point of view of the instructor. Recognize that your instructor has a reason for giving you this assignment and for giving it to you at a particular point in the semester. In every assignment, the instructor has a challenge for you. This challenge could be anything from demonstrating an ability to think clearly to demonstrating an ability to use the library. See the assignment not as a vague suggestion of what to do but as an opportunity to show that you can handle the course material as directed. Paper assignments give you more than a topic to discuss—they ask you to do something with the topic. Keep reminding yourself of that. Be careful to avoid the other extreme as well: do not read more into the assignment than what is there.

Of course, your instructor has given you an assignment so that he or she will be able to assess your understanding of the course material and give you an appropriate grade. But there is more to it than that. Your instructor has tried to design a learning experience of some kind. Your instructor wants you to think about something in a particular way for a particular reason. If you read the course description at the beginning of your syllabus, review the assigned readings, and consider the assignment itself, you may begin to see the plan, purpose, or approach to the subject matter that your instructor has created for you. If you still aren’t sure of the assignment’s goals, try asking the instructor. For help with this, see our handout on getting feedback .

Given your instructor’s efforts, it helps to answer the question: What is my purpose in completing this assignment? Is it to gather research from a variety of outside sources and present a coherent picture? Is it to take material I have been learning in class and apply it to a new situation? Is it to prove a point one way or another? Key words from the assignment can help you figure this out. Look for key terms in the form of active verbs that tell you what to do.

Key Terms: Finding Those Active Verbs

Here are some common key words and definitions to help you think about assignment terms:

Information words Ask you to demonstrate what you know about the subject, such as who, what, when, where, how, and why.

  • define —give the subject’s meaning (according to someone or something). Sometimes you have to give more than one view on the subject’s meaning
  • describe —provide details about the subject by answering question words (such as who, what, when, where, how, and why); you might also give details related to the five senses (what you see, hear, feel, taste, and smell)
  • explain —give reasons why or examples of how something happened
  • illustrate —give descriptive examples of the subject and show how each is connected with the subject
  • summarize —briefly list the important ideas you learned about the subject
  • trace —outline how something has changed or developed from an earlier time to its current form
  • research —gather material from outside sources about the subject, often with the implication or requirement that you will analyze what you have found

Relation words Ask you to demonstrate how things are connected.

  • compare —show how two or more things are similar (and, sometimes, different)
  • contrast —show how two or more things are dissimilar
  • apply—use details that you’ve been given to demonstrate how an idea, theory, or concept works in a particular situation
  • cause —show how one event or series of events made something else happen
  • relate —show or describe the connections between things

Interpretation words Ask you to defend ideas of your own about the subject. Do not see these words as requesting opinion alone (unless the assignment specifically says so), but as requiring opinion that is supported by concrete evidence. Remember examples, principles, definitions, or concepts from class or research and use them in your interpretation.

  • assess —summarize your opinion of the subject and measure it against something
  • prove, justify —give reasons or examples to demonstrate how or why something is the truth
  • evaluate, respond —state your opinion of the subject as good, bad, or some combination of the two, with examples and reasons
  • support —give reasons or evidence for something you believe (be sure to state clearly what it is that you believe)
  • synthesize —put two or more things together that have not been put together in class or in your readings before; do not just summarize one and then the other and say that they are similar or different—you must provide a reason for putting them together that runs all the way through the paper
  • analyze —determine how individual parts create or relate to the whole, figure out how something works, what it might mean, or why it is important
  • argue —take a side and defend it with evidence against the other side

More Clues to Your Purpose As you read the assignment, think about what the teacher does in class:

  • What kinds of textbooks or coursepack did your instructor choose for the course—ones that provide background information, explain theories or perspectives, or argue a point of view?
  • In lecture, does your instructor ask your opinion, try to prove her point of view, or use keywords that show up again in the assignment?
  • What kinds of assignments are typical in this discipline? Social science classes often expect more research. Humanities classes thrive on interpretation and analysis.
  • How do the assignments, readings, and lectures work together in the course? Instructors spend time designing courses, sometimes even arguing with their peers about the most effective course materials. Figuring out the overall design to the course will help you understand what each assignment is meant to achieve.

Now, what about your reader? Most undergraduates think of their audience as the instructor. True, your instructor is a good person to keep in mind as you write. But for the purposes of a good paper, think of your audience as someone like your roommate: smart enough to understand a clear, logical argument, but not someone who already knows exactly what is going on in your particular paper. Remember, even if the instructor knows everything there is to know about your paper topic, he or she still has to read your paper and assess your understanding. In other words, teach the material to your reader.

Aiming a paper at your audience happens in two ways: you make decisions about the tone and the level of information you want to convey.

  • Tone means the “voice” of your paper. Should you be chatty, formal, or objective? Usually you will find some happy medium—you do not want to alienate your reader by sounding condescending or superior, but you do not want to, um, like, totally wig on the man, you know? Eschew ostentatious erudition: some students think the way to sound academic is to use big words. Be careful—you can sound ridiculous, especially if you use the wrong big words.
  • The level of information you use depends on who you think your audience is. If you imagine your audience as your instructor and she already knows everything you have to say, you may find yourself leaving out key information that can cause your argument to be unconvincing and illogical. But you do not have to explain every single word or issue. If you are telling your roommate what happened on your favorite science fiction TV show last night, you do not say, “First a dark-haired white man of average height, wearing a suit and carrying a flashlight, walked into the room. Then a purple alien with fifteen arms and at least three eyes turned around. Then the man smiled slightly. In the background, you could hear a clock ticking. The room was fairly dark and had at least two windows that I saw.” You also do not say, “This guy found some aliens. The end.” Find some balance of useful details that support your main point.

You’ll find a much more detailed discussion of these concepts in our handout on audience .

The Grim Truth

With a few exceptions (including some lab and ethnography reports), you are probably being asked to make an argument. You must convince your audience. It is easy to forget this aim when you are researching and writing; as you become involved in your subject matter, you may become enmeshed in the details and focus on learning or simply telling the information you have found. You need to do more than just repeat what you have read. Your writing should have a point, and you should be able to say it in a sentence. Sometimes instructors call this sentence a “thesis” or a “claim.”

So, if your instructor tells you to write about some aspect of oral hygiene, you do not want to just list: “First, you brush your teeth with a soft brush and some peanut butter. Then, you floss with unwaxed, bologna-flavored string. Finally, gargle with bourbon.” Instead, you could say, “Of all the oral cleaning methods, sandblasting removes the most plaque. Therefore it should be recommended by the American Dental Association.” Or, “From an aesthetic perspective, moldy teeth can be quite charming. However, their joys are short-lived.”

Convincing the reader of your argument is the goal of academic writing. It doesn’t have to say “argument” anywhere in the assignment for you to need one. Look at the assignment and think about what kind of argument you could make about it instead of just seeing it as a checklist of information you have to present. For help with understanding the role of argument in academic writing, see our handout on argument .

What kind of evidence do you need?

There are many kinds of evidence, and what type of evidence will work for your assignment can depend on several factors–the discipline, the parameters of the assignment, and your instructor’s preference. Should you use statistics? Historical examples? Do you need to conduct your own experiment? Can you rely on personal experience? See our handout on evidence for suggestions on how to use evidence appropriately.

Make sure you are clear about this part of the assignment, because your use of evidence will be crucial in writing a successful paper. You are not just learning how to argue; you are learning how to argue with specific types of materials and ideas. Ask your instructor what counts as acceptable evidence. You can also ask a librarian for help. No matter what kind of evidence you use, be sure to cite it correctly—see the UNC Libraries citation tutorial .

You cannot always tell from the assignment just what sort of writing style your instructor expects. The instructor may be really laid back in class but still expect you to sound formal in writing. Or the instructor may be fairly formal in class and ask you to write a reflection paper where you need to use “I” and speak from your own experience.

Try to avoid false associations of a particular field with a style (“art historians like wacky creativity,” or “political scientists are boring and just give facts”) and look instead to the types of readings you have been given in class. No one expects you to write like Plato—just use the readings as a guide for what is standard or preferable to your instructor. When in doubt, ask your instructor about the level of formality she or he expects.

No matter what field you are writing for or what facts you are including, if you do not write so that your reader can understand your main idea, you have wasted your time. So make clarity your main goal. For specific help with style, see our handout on style .

Technical details about the assignment

The technical information you are given in an assignment always seems like the easy part. This section can actually give you lots of little hints about approaching the task. Find out if elements such as page length and citation format (see the UNC Libraries citation tutorial ) are negotiable. Some professors do not have strong preferences as long as you are consistent and fully answer the assignment. Some professors are very specific and will deduct big points for deviations.

Usually, the page length tells you something important: The instructor thinks the size of the paper is appropriate to the assignment’s parameters. In plain English, your instructor is telling you how many pages it should take for you to answer the question as fully as you are expected to. So if an assignment is two pages long, you cannot pad your paper with examples or reword your main idea several times. Hit your one point early, defend it with the clearest example, and finish quickly. If an assignment is ten pages long, you can be more complex in your main points and examples—and if you can only produce five pages for that assignment, you need to see someone for help—as soon as possible.

Tricks that don’t work

Your instructors are not fooled when you:

  • spend more time on the cover page than the essay —graphics, cool binders, and cute titles are no replacement for a well-written paper.
  • use huge fonts, wide margins, or extra spacing to pad the page length —these tricks are immediately obvious to the eye. Most instructors use the same word processor you do. They know what’s possible. Such tactics are especially damning when the instructor has a stack of 60 papers to grade and yours is the only one that low-flying airplane pilots could read.
  • use a paper from another class that covered “sort of similar” material . Again, the instructor has a particular task for you to fulfill in the assignment that usually relates to course material and lectures. Your other paper may not cover this material, and turning in the same paper for more than one course may constitute an Honor Code violation . Ask the instructor—it can’t hurt.
  • get all wacky and “creative” before you answer the question . Showing that you are able to think beyond the boundaries of a simple assignment can be good, but you must do what the assignment calls for first. Again, check with your instructor. A humorous tone can be refreshing for someone grading a stack of papers, but it will not get you a good grade if you have not fulfilled the task.

Critical reading of assignments leads to skills in other types of reading and writing. If you get good at figuring out what the real goals of assignments are, you are going to be better at understanding the goals of all of your classes and fields of study.

You may reproduce it for non-commercial use if you use the entire handout and attribute the source: The Writing Center, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

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12 Best Editorial Writing Topics With Examples (2024)

Editorial content writing aims to inform or educate readers. Discover relevant editorial writing topics you can use, plus examples to help you in writing.

Editorials let writers share their points of view on different topics. It’s an opinion piece where you must research and find relevant facts that establish your credibility and demonstrate your writing skills. You might use editorial writing as a journalist; in that case, these best journalism tips will get you started! Keep reading to see our editorial writing topics to launch your career.

What Type of Writing is an Editorial?

What is an editorial opinion piece, 1. science and health, 2. environmental challenges, 3. social media and social networking, 4. devices and technology, 5. finances and the economy, 6. sports and entertainment, 7. significant past events, 8. social issues, 9. controversial topics, 10. current events, 11. “future of” editorials, 12. versus editorials, what are some essential rules for writing an editorial, what is the difference between an editorial and a blog post.

Editorial writing topics

Editorial content writing is the opposite of content made to sell products. Instead, this type of writing is focused on entertaining, educating, or informing readers. It’s all to attract them to want to know your business further. With consistency, you improve your engagement and lay the foundation for a target audience loyal to your content.

Opinion pieces, as their name suggests, are articles published in periodicals, magazines, and newspapers presenting the writers’ opinions on a specific topic. These pieces can be signed or unassigned by the writer and are produced to offer readers a wide range of views about the subject. Below are interesting editorial topics you can use.

Editorials about science and health are usually selected by professionals who want to share their reviews or opinions on a specific subject in their specialized field. They help the readers understand natural phenomena, new products or technology related to science, research studies or methods, and claims made by fellow professionals, companies, or organizations.

Some examples are:

  • The Sudden Outbreak of Swine Flu
  • Bioterrorism and Its Effects on a Country
  • Science in a Time of Crisis: Communication, Engagement and the Lived Experience of the COVID-19 Pandemic
  • Junk Foods’ Negative Impacts on Children’s Growth
  • Quick Meals and How They Contribute to Obesity in the US

Editorial writers for this topic must know how these challenges work and affect society. These environmental issues coax the readers to take the problems tackled in these pieces more seriously as they identify threats to humans and our ecosystems with reliable research and data.

  • Tackling Our Biggest Environmental Challenges
  • Global Warming, Climate Change, and Their Effects on People and Animals
  • The Positive Impacts of Reuse, Reduce, Recycle
  • How Oil Spills Destroy Bodies of Water
  • Should We Decrease Companies’ Carbon Credits ?

Social media and social networking

Because social networking sites only became prevalent post-2004, research regarding their adverse consequences has yet to be thoroughly scoured. Additionally, brainstorming about editorials on social media is easier for the younger generations since they’ve been exposed to it for longer and have first-hand experience with its effects.

  • The Different Pressures of Social Media
  • Do We Need Stricter Cyber Crime Laws?
  • Reality Shows and How They Alter Teenager’s View of the Real World

Editorials on technology often link devices and their influence on a group, usually students or employees who operate these devices in their daily activities. Pieces about this topic delve into the contributions and drawbacks of technology regarding convenience, innovation, and well-being.

  • Why Technology Can Be a Catalyst for Social Good
  • The Ethical Issues Concerning Nanotechnology
  • The Risks of Giving Toddlers Phones
  • General Data Protection Regulation: Are You Protected Enough?

Finances and the economy are always relevant subjects, and topics linked to them never run out. Therefore, many editorial pieces are prompted by constant analysis of economic trends, issues, and practices within a county, country, and globally. Editorial articles also explain how ripple effects affect an individual’s wealth.

  • The Big Quit: Why Millenials Are Tired of Working
  • Economic Recession and Its Effects
  • Saving the Economy or Saving Lives: An Unnecessary Choice
  • Causes of the Subprime Mortgage Crisis

If you’re writing for your school newspaper, see these excellent examples of newspaper headlines .

This topic highlights lifestyle, media updates, and game news reports. Sports can also focus on a coach, team, or player’s profile, where the editorial writer comments and analyzes their style and gameplay. It can also brush other sports subjects, such as the Iran football team who refused to sing their national anthem amidst the Mahsa Amini protests .

  • Is Qatar the Right Host for the FIFA World Cup ?
  • What To Know About the Latest NBA Season
  • What Went Wrong With Rambo: The Video Game ?
  • Steroids and Doping for Sports
  • Habits: A Pandemic of Lost Routines

Middle and high school students find this topic more manageable to discuss since the information they need is already available. The editorial writer can examine a subject they relate with, like their ethnicity or personal experiences, to make the piece more compelling. They can also probe extreme historical events and reflect on their ongoing effects on current times.

  • The Boston Tea Party of 1997
  • A Glimpse of the Past: A Look at Black History

An unsigned editorial relays a newspaper’s stand on a social issue in a professional setting. The piece scrutinizes the social problems and shares most of the editorial board’s opinion on such matters. These social issues depend on various factors, such as pending cases, laws, and politics, that impact many people in a society.

  • The Necessity of College Schooling
  • Legal Recognition of Same-sex Marriage Should Proceed
  • Capital Punishment Be Mandatory in All States
  • Pardoning Student Loan: Is It Fair?

Controversial topics are subjects that rouse arguments and stir clashing groups who disapprove of another’s mindset. These themes spark debate among opposing parties with strong views, biases, or prejudices.

An editorial reveals both of the parties’ viewpoints and remains objective. It presents facts pertinent to the topic, such as why a partaker dramatically insists on or resists changes or if any participants are open to negotiations.

  • Legalization of Marijuana: What Comes Next?
  • Should Students Grade Their Teachers?
  • What Follows Roe v Wade: It Doesn’t Stop Here

Journalists and other professional writers must keep up to speed to tackle current events and deliver fresh news. Readers are encouraged to read the most recent stories that pique their interest. Editorials that use current events intend to attract attention and keep the audience up-to-date on the latest affairs worldwide.

  • The Victory of New Government Candidates
  • The Russian and Ukrainian War
  • Are You a Victim of Voter Fraud?

Here’s a tip, when there’s little happening in your field, check out these newspaper column ideas to be inspired on what to write next.

A good editorial knows how to keep its readers curious by opening a discussion regarding thought-provoking issues and posing possibilities. These editorials aim to educate and persuade readers to do something in support of or against the topic with facts and data.

  • Future of Organic Food
  • Future for Printed Journals
  • Future of Smartphones
  • Our Future is Uncertain and Stressful

Versus editorials compare and contrast two conflicting themes or ideas and expound on why they are opposed. If you’re wondering, an op-ed is not the same as an editorial. An op-ed is usually placed opposite the editorial and written by an individual not affiliated with the editorial team or the newspaper. Some examples of this are:

  • ‘Faith vs. Fact:’ Why Religion and Science Are Mutually Incompatible
  • Darwinism vs. Creationism
  • Healthcare in Denmark vs. Healthcare in the US

FAQs About Editorial Writing Topics

Editorials are not meant to advertise anything. They are pieces that state the writer’s objective opinion based on evidence and in-depth research. An editorial must analyze the topic with supporting facts from unbiased sources and either inform, persuade, criticize, or praise. It should also be entertaining to read.

The main difference between blogs and editorials is their reliance on facts and research. If blogs let writers share their personal beliefs, editorials offer expert opinions. Additionally, blogs adopt a casual tone and avoid jargon, whereas editorials have a more professional style to convince readers of the pieces’ credibility.

editorial assignment example

Maria Caballero is a freelance writer who has been writing since high school. She believes that to be a writer doesn't only refer to excellent syntax and semantics but also knowing how to weave words together to communicate to any reader effectively.

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Editorial Writing Examples

Michele is a writer who has been published both locally and internationally.

Learn about our Editorial Policy .

Editorial writing is a style that can be hard to explain as it is usually a unique mixture of fact and opinion. Viewing editorial examples is one of the most helpful ways to learn what the style should look like. Click on the document images to open and download the two examples of editorials provided here. Find troubleshooting tips and tricks in the guide for Adobe Printables .

Charter Schools = Choices

At under 450 words, this 'Charter Schools = Choices' piece is an example of a fairly short editorial written in favor of a particular subject. The sample uses a serious tone in taking a stance in favor of public charter schools.

  • Student Council Speech Ideas & Tips to Help You Win
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  • Examples of Successful Grant Proposals to Help You Secure Funding

Reality T.V. Creates an Alternate Reality

Some editorials, like 'Reality T.V. Creates an Alternate Reality,' use humor and sarcasm mixed with facts to get a point across. With around 600 words, this example is a bit longer and takes a stand against reality television.

Editorial Writing Tips

Writing an editorial can be challenging and intimidating. Editorials can have tremendous impacts on local issues and political campaigns. They can be written in a serious tone, filled with sarcasm, or infused with humor. Understanding the basics of editorial writing can help you create a smart, purposeful piece.

Definition of an Editorial

The subject matter of an editorial commonly concerns a current issue. Unlike other parts of a news publication an editorial is meant to be biased, somewhat insightful, and often includes persuasive writing techniques. Publishers utilize the editorial section of their publications as a forum to express their views and try to influence the opinions of the readership.

Editorial Structure

Regardless of the point of view or length of the editorial, there is a preferred structure for writing one.

  • Introduction: State your topic up front, explain its history, and affirm why it is relevant and who is affected by it. Clearly word your opinion and the main reason you have embraced it.
  • Body: Support your position with another reason. Acknowledge counter-arguments and opinions. Present relevant facts and statistics and include ethical or moral reasons for your stand. Give an example of what you think would be the best approach to or outcome of the situation.
  • Conclusion: Make an emotional or passionate statement regarding why your opinion or proposed solution is better than others. Tie up the piece by clearly restating your stance.

Helpful Hints

To ensure the piece stays professional and powerful, keep some guidelines in mind while writing.

  • Cite positions and quotes from community, business, or political leaders to present informed arguments.
  • Avoid using first person syntax. Using the word 'I' can weaken the impact of your statements.
  • Keep on topic and avoid rambling.
  • Make sure the views expressed are yours and not 'borrowed' from examples used for inspiration.
  • Check the guidelines for content and word count limitations to be sure a submission is not rejected for technical reasons.

More Editorial Writing Examples

Editorials generally appear in newspapers and other media publications. In several instances, such pieces have won Pulitzer Prizes for their excellence in writing and outstanding presentations of varying opinions, views, and outlooks.

  • Additional editorial examples can be found on websites for most major publications including The New York Times , The Washington Post and The Boston Globe .
  • See TheOpEdProject.org for a list of additional publications that include editorial sections, along with their submission guidelines.

Opinions Matter

Everyone has an opinion and a right to express it. Even those who are not publication editors can still state views in most 'Letters to the Editor' sections. Sharing opinions with a factual basis can inspire others to take action on issues of greater societal concern.

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MIT Comparative Media Studies/Writing

Resources for Teachers: Creating Writing Assignments

This page contains four specific areas:

Creating Effective Assignments

Checking the assignment, sequencing writing assignments, selecting an effective writing assignment format.

Research has shown that the more detailed a writing assignment is, the better the student papers are in response to that assignment. Instructors can often help students write more effective papers by giving students written instructions about that assignment. Explicit descriptions of assignments on the syllabus or on an “assignment sheet” tend to produce the best results. These instructions might make explicit the process or steps necessary to complete the assignment. Assignment sheets should detail:

  • the kind of writing expected
  • the scope of acceptable subject matter
  • the length requirements
  • formatting requirements
  • documentation format
  • the amount and type of research expected (if any)
  • the writer’s role
  • deadlines for the first draft and its revision

Providing questions or needed data in the assignment helps students get started. For instance, some questions can suggest a mode of organization to the students. Other questions might suggest a procedure to follow. The questions posed should require that students assert a thesis.

The following areas should help you create effective writing assignments.

Examining your goals for the assignment

  • How exactly does this assignment fit with the objectives of your course?
  • Should this assignment relate only to the class and the texts for the class, or should it also relate to the world beyond the classroom?
  • What do you want the students to learn or experience from this writing assignment?
  • Should this assignment be an individual or a collaborative effort?
  • What do you want students to show you in this assignment? To demonstrate mastery of concepts or texts? To demonstrate logical and critical thinking? To develop an original idea? To learn and demonstrate the procedures, practices, and tools of your field of study?

Defining the writing task

  • Is the assignment sequenced so that students: (1) write a draft, (2) receive feedback (from you, fellow students, or staff members at the Writing and Communication Center), and (3) then revise it? Such a procedure has been proven to accomplish at least two goals: it improves the student’s writing and it discourages plagiarism.
  • Does the assignment include so many sub-questions that students will be confused about the major issue they should examine? Can you give more guidance about what the paper’s main focus should be? Can you reduce the number of sub-questions?
  • What is the purpose of the assignment (e.g., review knowledge already learned, find additional information, synthesize research, examine a new hypothesis)? Making the purpose(s) of the assignment explicit helps students write the kind of paper you want.
  • What is the required form (e.g., expository essay, lab report, memo, business report)?
  • What mode is required for the assignment (e.g., description, narration, analysis, persuasion, a combination of two or more of these)?

Defining the audience for the paper

  • Can you define a hypothetical audience to help students determine which concepts to define and explain? When students write only to the instructor, they may assume that little, if anything, requires explanation. Defining the whole class as the intended audience will clarify this issue for students.
  • What is the probable attitude of the intended readers toward the topic itself? Toward the student writer’s thesis? Toward the student writer?
  • What is the probable educational and economic background of the intended readers?

Defining the writer’s role

  • Can you make explicit what persona you wish the students to assume? For example, a very effective role for student writers is that of a “professional in training” who uses the assumptions, the perspective, and the conceptual tools of the discipline.

Defining your evaluative criteria

1. If possible, explain the relative weight in grading assigned to the quality of writing and the assignment’s content:

  • depth of coverage
  • organization
  • critical thinking
  • original thinking
  • use of research
  • logical demonstration
  • appropriate mode of structure and analysis (e.g., comparison, argument)
  • correct use of sources
  • grammar and mechanics
  • professional tone
  • correct use of course-specific concepts and terms.

Here’s a checklist for writing assignments:

  • Have you used explicit command words in your instructions (e.g., “compare and contrast” and “explain” are more explicit than “explore” or “consider”)? The more explicit the command words, the better chance the students will write the type of paper you wish.
  • Does the assignment suggest a topic, thesis, and format? Should it?
  • Have you told students the kind of audience they are addressing — the level of knowledge they can assume the readers have and your particular preferences (e.g., “avoid slang, use the first-person sparingly”)?
  • If the assignment has several stages of completion, have you made the various deadlines clear? Is your policy on due dates clear?
  • Have you presented the assignment in a manageable form? For instance, a 5-page assignment sheet for a 1-page paper may overwhelm students. Similarly, a 1-sentence assignment for a 25-page paper may offer insufficient guidance.

There are several benefits of sequencing writing assignments:

  • Sequencing provides a sense of coherence for the course.
  • This approach helps students see progress and purpose in their work rather than seeing the writing assignments as separate exercises.
  • It encourages complexity through sustained attention, revision, and consideration of multiple perspectives.
  • If you have only one large paper due near the end of the course, you might create a sequence of smaller assignments leading up to and providing a foundation for that larger paper (e.g., proposal of the topic, an annotated bibliography, a progress report, a summary of the paper’s key argument, a first draft of the paper itself). This approach allows you to give students guidance and also discourages plagiarism.
  • It mirrors the approach to written work in many professions.

The concept of sequencing writing assignments also allows for a wide range of options in creating the assignment. It is often beneficial to have students submit the components suggested below to your course’s STELLAR web site.

Use the writing process itself. In its simplest form, “sequencing an assignment” can mean establishing some sort of “official” check of the prewriting and drafting steps in the writing process. This step guarantees that students will not write the whole paper in one sitting and also gives students more time to let their ideas develop. This check might be something as informal as having students work on their prewriting or draft for a few minutes at the end of class. Or it might be something more formal such as collecting the prewriting and giving a few suggestions and comments.

Have students submit drafts. You might ask students to submit a first draft in order to receive your quick responses to its content, or have them submit written questions about the content and scope of their projects after they have completed their first draft.

Establish small groups. Set up small writing groups of three-five students from the class. Allow them to meet for a few minutes in class or have them arrange a meeting outside of class to comment constructively on each other’s drafts. The students do not need to be writing on the same topic.

Require consultations. Have students consult with someone in the Writing and Communication Center about their prewriting and/or drafts. The Center has yellow forms that we can give to students to inform you that such a visit was made.

Explore a subject in increasingly complex ways. A series of reading and writing assignments may be linked by the same subject matter or topic. Students encounter new perspectives and competing ideas with each new reading, and thus must evaluate and balance various views and adopt a position that considers the various points of view.

Change modes of discourse. In this approach, students’ assignments move from less complex to more complex modes of discourse (e.g., from expressive to analytic to argumentative; or from lab report to position paper to research article).

Change audiences. In this approach, students create drafts for different audiences, moving from personal to public (e.g., from self-reflection to an audience of peers to an audience of specialists). Each change would require different tasks and more extensive knowledge.

Change perspective through time. In this approach, students might write a statement of their understanding of a subject or issue at the beginning of a course and then return at the end of the semester to write an analysis of that original stance in the light of the experiences and knowledge gained in the course.

Use a natural sequence. A different approach to sequencing is to create a series of assignments culminating in a final writing project. In scientific and technical writing, for example, students could write a proposal requesting approval of a particular topic. The next assignment might be a progress report (or a series of progress reports), and the final assignment could be the report or document itself. For humanities and social science courses, students might write a proposal requesting approval of a particular topic, then hand in an annotated bibliography, and then a draft, and then the final version of the paper.

Have students submit sections. A variation of the previous approach is to have students submit various sections of their final document throughout the semester (e.g., their bibliography, review of the literature, methods section).

In addition to the standard essay and report formats, several other formats exist that might give students a different slant on the course material or allow them to use slightly different writing skills. Here are some suggestions:

Journals. Journals have become a popular format in recent years for courses that require some writing. In-class journal entries can spark discussions and reveal gaps in students’ understanding of the material. Having students write an in-class entry summarizing the material covered that day can aid the learning process and also reveal concepts that require more elaboration. Out-of-class entries involve short summaries or analyses of texts, or are a testing ground for ideas for student papers and reports. Although journals may seem to add a huge burden for instructors to correct, in fact many instructors either spot-check journals (looking at a few particular key entries) or grade them based on the number of entries completed. Journals are usually not graded for their prose style. STELLAR forums work well for out-of-class entries.

Letters. Students can define and defend a position on an issue in a letter written to someone in authority. They can also explain a concept or a process to someone in need of that particular information. They can write a letter to a friend explaining their concerns about an upcoming paper assignment or explaining their ideas for an upcoming paper assignment. If you wish to add a creative element to the writing assignment, you might have students adopt the persona of an important person discussed in your course (e.g., an historical figure) and write a letter explaining his/her actions, process, or theory to an interested person (e.g., “pretend that you are John Wilkes Booth and write a letter to the Congress justifying your assassination of Abraham Lincoln,” or “pretend you are Henry VIII writing to Thomas More explaining your break from the Catholic Church”).

Editorials . Students can define and defend a position on a controversial issue in the format of an editorial for the campus or local newspaper or for a national journal.

Cases . Students might create a case study particular to the course’s subject matter.

Position Papers . Students can define and defend a position, perhaps as a preliminary step in the creation of a formal research paper or essay.

Imitation of a Text . Students can create a new document “in the style of” a particular writer (e.g., “Create a government document the way Woody Allen might write it” or “Write your own ‘Modest Proposal’ about a modern issue”).

Instruction Manuals . Students write a step-by-step explanation of a process.

Dialogues . Students create a dialogue between two major figures studied in which they not only reveal those people’s theories or thoughts but also explore areas of possible disagreement (e.g., “Write a dialogue between Claude Monet and Jackson Pollock about the nature and uses of art”).

Collaborative projects . Students work together to create such works as reports, questions, and critiques.

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  • How to write an essay introduction | 4 steps & examples

How to Write an Essay Introduction | 4 Steps & Examples

Published on February 4, 2019 by Shona McCombes . Revised on July 23, 2023.

A good introduction paragraph is an essential part of any academic essay . It sets up your argument and tells the reader what to expect.

The main goals of an introduction are to:

  • Catch your reader’s attention.
  • Give background on your topic.
  • Present your thesis statement —the central point of your essay.

This introduction example is taken from our interactive essay example on the history of Braille.

The invention of Braille was a major turning point in the history of disability. The writing system of raised dots used by visually impaired people was developed by Louis Braille in nineteenth-century France. In a society that did not value disabled people in general, blindness was particularly stigmatized, and lack of access to reading and writing was a significant barrier to social participation. The idea of tactile reading was not entirely new, but existing methods based on sighted systems were difficult to learn and use. As the first writing system designed for blind people’s needs, Braille was a groundbreaking new accessibility tool. It not only provided practical benefits, but also helped change the cultural status of blindness. This essay begins by discussing the situation of blind people in nineteenth-century Europe. It then describes the invention of Braille and the gradual process of its acceptance within blind education. Subsequently, it explores the wide-ranging effects of this invention on blind people’s social and cultural lives.

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Table of contents

Step 1: hook your reader, step 2: give background information, step 3: present your thesis statement, step 4: map your essay’s structure, step 5: check and revise, more examples of essay introductions, other interesting articles, frequently asked questions about the essay introduction.

Your first sentence sets the tone for the whole essay, so spend some time on writing an effective hook.

Avoid long, dense sentences—start with something clear, concise and catchy that will spark your reader’s curiosity.

The hook should lead the reader into your essay, giving a sense of the topic you’re writing about and why it’s interesting. Avoid overly broad claims or plain statements of fact.

Examples: Writing a good hook

Take a look at these examples of weak hooks and learn how to improve them.

  • Braille was an extremely important invention.
  • The invention of Braille was a major turning point in the history of disability.

The first sentence is a dry fact; the second sentence is more interesting, making a bold claim about exactly  why the topic is important.

  • The internet is defined as “a global computer network providing a variety of information and communication facilities.”
  • The spread of the internet has had a world-changing effect, not least on the world of education.

Avoid using a dictionary definition as your hook, especially if it’s an obvious term that everyone knows. The improved example here is still broad, but it gives us a much clearer sense of what the essay will be about.

  • Mary Shelley’s  Frankenstein is a famous book from the nineteenth century.
  • Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein is often read as a crude cautionary tale about the dangers of scientific advancement.

Instead of just stating a fact that the reader already knows, the improved hook here tells us about the mainstream interpretation of the book, implying that this essay will offer a different interpretation.

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editorial assignment example

Next, give your reader the context they need to understand your topic and argument. Depending on the subject of your essay, this might include:

  • Historical, geographical, or social context
  • An outline of the debate you’re addressing
  • A summary of relevant theories or research about the topic
  • Definitions of key terms

The information here should be broad but clearly focused and relevant to your argument. Don’t give too much detail—you can mention points that you will return to later, but save your evidence and interpretation for the main body of the essay.

How much space you need for background depends on your topic and the scope of your essay. In our Braille example, we take a few sentences to introduce the topic and sketch the social context that the essay will address:

Now it’s time to narrow your focus and show exactly what you want to say about the topic. This is your thesis statement —a sentence or two that sums up your overall argument.

This is the most important part of your introduction. A  good thesis isn’t just a statement of fact, but a claim that requires evidence and explanation.

The goal is to clearly convey your own position in a debate or your central point about a topic.

Particularly in longer essays, it’s helpful to end the introduction by signposting what will be covered in each part. Keep it concise and give your reader a clear sense of the direction your argument will take.

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As you research and write, your argument might change focus or direction as you learn more.

For this reason, it’s often a good idea to wait until later in the writing process before you write the introduction paragraph—it can even be the very last thing you write.

When you’ve finished writing the essay body and conclusion , you should return to the introduction and check that it matches the content of the essay.

It’s especially important to make sure your thesis statement accurately represents what you do in the essay. If your argument has gone in a different direction than planned, tweak your thesis statement to match what you actually say.

To polish your writing, you can use something like a paraphrasing tool .

You can use the checklist below to make sure your introduction does everything it’s supposed to.

Checklist: Essay introduction

My first sentence is engaging and relevant.

I have introduced the topic with necessary background information.

I have defined any important terms.

My thesis statement clearly presents my main point or argument.

Everything in the introduction is relevant to the main body of the essay.

You have a strong introduction - now make sure the rest of your essay is just as good.

  • Argumentative
  • Literary analysis

This introduction to an argumentative essay sets up the debate about the internet and education, and then clearly states the position the essay will argue for.

The spread of the internet has had a world-changing effect, not least on the world of education. The use of the internet in academic contexts is on the rise, and its role in learning is hotly debated. For many teachers who did not grow up with this technology, its effects seem alarming and potentially harmful. This concern, while understandable, is misguided. The negatives of internet use are outweighed by its critical benefits for students and educators—as a uniquely comprehensive and accessible information source; a means of exposure to and engagement with different perspectives; and a highly flexible learning environment.

This introduction to a short expository essay leads into the topic (the invention of the printing press) and states the main point the essay will explain (the effect of this invention on European society).

In many ways, the invention of the printing press marked the end of the Middle Ages. The medieval period in Europe is often remembered as a time of intellectual and political stagnation. Prior to the Renaissance, the average person had very limited access to books and was unlikely to be literate. The invention of the printing press in the 15th century allowed for much less restricted circulation of information in Europe, paving the way for the Reformation.

This introduction to a literary analysis essay , about Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein , starts by describing a simplistic popular view of the story, and then states how the author will give a more complex analysis of the text’s literary devices.

Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein is often read as a crude cautionary tale. Arguably the first science fiction novel, its plot can be read as a warning about the dangers of scientific advancement unrestrained by ethical considerations. In this reading, and in popular culture representations of the character as a “mad scientist”, Victor Frankenstein represents the callous, arrogant ambition of modern science. However, far from providing a stable image of the character, Shelley uses shifting narrative perspectives to gradually transform our impression of Frankenstein, portraying him in an increasingly negative light as the novel goes on. While he initially appears to be a naive but sympathetic idealist, after the creature’s narrative Frankenstein begins to resemble—even in his own telling—the thoughtlessly cruel figure the creature represents him as.

If you want to know more about AI tools , college essays , or fallacies make sure to check out some of our other articles with explanations and examples or go directly to our tools!

  • Ad hominem fallacy
  • Post hoc fallacy
  • Appeal to authority fallacy
  • False cause fallacy
  • Sunk cost fallacy

College essays

  • Choosing Essay Topic
  • Write a College Essay
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  • College Essay Format & Structure
  • Comparing and Contrasting in an Essay

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Your essay introduction should include three main things, in this order:

  • An opening hook to catch the reader’s attention.
  • Relevant background information that the reader needs to know.
  • A thesis statement that presents your main point or argument.

The length of each part depends on the length and complexity of your essay .

The “hook” is the first sentence of your essay introduction . It should lead the reader into your essay, giving a sense of why it’s interesting.

To write a good hook, avoid overly broad statements or long, dense sentences. Try to start with something clear, concise and catchy that will spark your reader’s curiosity.

A thesis statement is a sentence that sums up the central point of your paper or essay . Everything else you write should relate to this key idea.

The thesis statement is essential in any academic essay or research paper for two main reasons:

  • It gives your writing direction and focus.
  • It gives the reader a concise summary of your main point.

Without a clear thesis statement, an essay can end up rambling and unfocused, leaving your reader unsure of exactly what you want to say.

The structure of an essay is divided into an introduction that presents your topic and thesis statement , a body containing your in-depth analysis and arguments, and a conclusion wrapping up your ideas.

The structure of the body is flexible, but you should always spend some time thinking about how you can organize your essay to best serve your ideas.

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45 Sample Writing Assignments

Process analysis.

  • Be the expert and teach your reader how to do something. You will focus on writing the main steps to completing this process and organizing based on chronology or priority of steps. This essay could be demonstrative in nature (ex. How to bathe and groom a dog at home or how to make banana nut muffins) or philosophically-based (ex. How to not fail your freshman classes or how to survive being a camp counselor).
  • Interview a person who has a compelling story to share or with whom you can focus on a particular angle. Interweave direct quotes, observations, and narrative elements to help readers understand this person or his/her perspective better. This should not be a full biography of this person or a career profile although biographical elements and details on jobs held may be woven in as appropriate. Perspective/angles can include but are not limited to this person’s relationship with: technology, ecology/the environment, politics, religion/spirituality, gender roles, family/what family means to them, love, betrayal, etc.

The purpose is to define a term, concept, or idea. You will typically lay the foundation with a dictionary definition (denotative) of the word but will move out to an extended definition (connotative). You are using a combination of the literal and implied meanings of a word or idea in addition to historical information to help readers understand the topic more effectively. You usually define a term or concept that is complex in nature or that can be misconstrued. Legal, business, and scientific terms or concepts typically work well for essays such as these. For example, take the term manslaughter; the literal and implied meanings can help to understand this sometimes misinterpreted crime. The definition paper can stand on its own or an abbreviated version can serve as part of a larger argumentative, analytical, or research paper.

  • Take an abstract, complex, controversial word or a term that is personal to you. Using a dictionary definition as well as your own and others’ interpretations, craft an extended definition essay with the purpose of giving a more insightful, comprehensive, and layered understanding of this particular term.

Illustration

  • Walk readers through a day, event, activity, or state of mind, making sure to focus on facts and authentic descriptions. Take a topic that you know something about, like video games. This expository essay on this topic could focus one’s addiction to video games. In one example, the writer might walk us through his day playing a video game while in another essay on the same topic, a writer could concentrate mostly on the reasons he or she became addicted to games and may touch briefly on how to prevent this addiction.

This prompt comes from: https://resources.instructure.com/courses/5/pages/summary-essay-prompt . This prompt could be easily modified by changing out the topic of digital literacy to another one of your choice. Whether working with popular articles or scholarly ones, summary writing is a key component of reading comprehension, setting up a foundation for a larger issue, and research.

“Digital literacy” may be a new term for you, but it’s probably not a new concept.  Our personal and academic lives are being transformed by online content, and not everyone has the same innate level of skill at determining what and how to use this content.

Our first essay asks to you to  summarize one of 3 short articles from the library library on the topic of digital literacy.  (These articles can be found in the weekly modules.)  The objectives of this assignment are to:

  • Identify and restate the thesis of an author’s work
  • Accurately portray the contents of an article
  • Practice paraphrasing and quotation skills in formal writing
  • Practice “neutral reporting”–being able to present the findings of others without making them appear as your own (most students find this to be the most challenging component of this assignment)
  • Practice end citation methods (APA or MLA)
  • This summary should be written for an audience that HAS NOT read the original article, and so you will report the major and minor ideas contained in the piece.
  • Your summary should indicate the article’s thesis idea, if there is one.  This thesis should be contained within your introduction.  Be sure to also give the title of the article, the author(s), and where & when it was originally published.
  • This summary should contain at least one direct quote from the article.  Quotation marks should be used.  Introduce the direct quote with a “signal” phrase, such as McMillan-Clifton writes… or the article states… or this website argues that…  etc.
  • This summary should contain at least one paraphrase from the article.  Put the author’s ideas in your own words, but stay true to the original intent.  Introduce the paraphrase with a tag phrase, as mentioned above.  Remember that, as a general rule, phrases of 4 or more words that are exactly the same as the original text should be treated like a quote, not a paraphrase.
  • Your summary will be NEUTRAL regarding the material contained within the article.  While you should report any bias the author has, you yourself should not reveal your own opinions on the matter.   Using “I” or “you” in this essay is not advised , unless it appears inside a quote.
  • Normally I don’t mind if essay submissions exceed the maximum word limit, but this essay is an exception.  Because one of the hallmarks of an effective summary is brevity, please do not exceed the maximum word count of 600 words.
  • In-text citations will not be required in this assignment, though you are welcome to include them for practice.
  • Your summary should have an end citation, APA or MLA

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Analysis of a Business Environment: Coffee and Cake Ltd (CC Ltd)

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There are various types of assignments: essays, annotated bibliographies, stand-alone literature reviews, reflective writing essays, etc. There will be a specific structure to follow for each of these. Before focusing on the structure, it is best to plan your assignment first. Your school will have its own guidelines and instructions, you should align with those. Start by selecting the essential aspects that need to be included in your assignment.

Based on what you understand from the assignment in question, evaluate the critical points that should be made. If the task is research-based, discuss your aims and objectives, research method, and results. For an argumentative essay, you need to construct arguments relevant to the thesis statement.

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Where structure is concerned, our samples can be of benefit. The basic structure is of three parts: introduction, discussion, and conclusion. It is, however, advisable to follow the structural guidelines from your tutor.

For example, our master’s sample assignment includes lots of headings and sub-headings. Undergraduate assignments are shorter and present a statistical analysis only.

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IMAGES

  1. Example of Article Review Assignment Pdf

    editorial assignment example

  2. Assignment Editor Cover Letter Examples

    editorial assignment example

  3. 😀 Apa style critique. How to Write an Article Critique. Example APA at

    editorial assignment example

  4. Sample Editorial Article 2

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  5. Assignment Writing Guide Free Essay Example

    editorial assignment example

  6. 9+ Report Writing Example For Students

    editorial assignment example

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  1. Nutrition Assignment Example

  2. Journal Article Analysis

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  4. ECI Assignment: Example of Noble Character in daily life by gilby elghaza

  5. chapter 5 GALA ASSIGNMENT PAPER EXAMPLE SOLUTION PART 1

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COMMENTS

  1. The Best Editorial Example to Inspire Your Writing

    Praise General Editorial Example Before moving on to the types here is a general editorial example. Title: Understanding Tourette's Syndrome: A Call for Compassion and Inclusivity Imagine being in a serene environment when, unexpectedly, someone shouts or exhibits a sudden movement. It might be tempting to chuckle or dismiss the behavior.

  2. How To Write An Editorial (7 Easy Steps, Examples, & Guide)

    - Alan Weintraut What Is the Purpose of an Editorial? The purpose of an editorial is to share a perspective, persuade others of your point of view, and possibly propose a solution to a problem. The most important part is to pick one purpose and stick to it. Rambling, incoherent editorials won't do.

  3. Common Writing Assignments

    Purdue OWL General Writing Common Writing Assignments Common Writing Assignments Common Writing Assignments These OWL resources will help you understand and complete specific types of writing assignments, such as annotated bibliographies, book reports, and research papers.

  4. PDF How to Write an Editorial

    Develop a clear thesis. This needs to be a clear statement that tells the reader exactly what your editorial is about and where you stand on the issue. This may take one sentence or a whole paragraph. It depends on your writing style. Example: It is December 1918, and January 1919 is just days away.

  5. How to Write an Editorial: 6 Steps for Writing an Editorial

    Written by MasterClass Last updated: Feb 22, 2022 • 3 min read Writing an editorial is a great way to share your point of view beyond your existing network of family and friends. Some newspapers welcome guest editorial pieces or letters to the editor, but learning how to write an editorial effectively is essential to getting your work published.

  6. How to Write an Editorial in 5 Steps

    Jennifer Herrity Updated September 28, 2023 Writing an editorial is a great way to share your perspective or advocate for a cause to a wide audience. Effective editorial articles can raise awareness of an issue while also influencing people's opinions on a topic.

  7. Learn How to Write An Editorial

    1. What is an Editorial? 2. What is the Difference between an Editorial and an Article? 3. Types of Editorial 4. How to Write an Editorial Article? 5. How to Write an Editorial for a Journal? 6. How to Write an Editorial Letter? 7. How to Write an Editorial for a Magazine? 8. How to Write an Editorial Response? 9.

  8. How to Write an Essay Outline

    Revised on July 23, 2023. An essay outline is a way of planning the structure of your essay before you start writing. It involves writing quick summary sentences or phrases for every point you will cover in each paragraph, giving you a picture of how your argument will unfold.

  9. How to Write an Editorial

    How to Write an Editorial | Steps and Example An editorial is a newspaper article that presents the author's opinion on an issue and proposes a solution. Learn how to write an editorial with this guide.

  10. How to Write an Editorial

    Editorial examples. New York Times. The Washington Post. The Huffington Post. How to write an editorial. Step 1: Find an epic topic to cover. Step 2: Craft a headline that makes BuzzFeed proud. Step 3: Make the outline. Step 4: Write that bad boy!

  11. The Beginner's Guide to Writing an Essay

    For example, if you've been assigned a five-paragraph expository essay for a high school class, you'll probably spend the most time on the writing stage; for a college-level argumentative essay, on the other hand, you'll need to spend more time researching your topic and developing an original argument before you start writing. Prevent plagiarism.

  12. Understanding Assignments

    For example: "Throughout history, gerbils have played a key role in politics," or "In the last few weeks of class, we have focused on the evening wear of the housefly …" The Task of the Assignment Pay attention; this part tells you what to do when you write the paper. Look for the key verb or verbs in the sentence.

  13. PDF Writing Your Assignment

    is right or wrong, so write the assignment in whichever order feels best for you. The introduction might be up to around 10% of the word count (e.g. up to 200 words for a 2000 word assignment). Don't forget your conclusion At the end of the assignment, you need to summarise the key points you've made. You won't be introducing

  14. 12 Best Editorial Writing Topics With Examples (2024)

    Some examples are: The Sudden Outbreak of Swine Flu Bioterrorism and Its Effects on a Country Science in a Time of Crisis: Communication, Engagement and the Lived Experience of the COVID-19 Pandemic Junk Foods' Negative Impacts on Children's Growth Quick Meals and How They Contribute to Obesity in the US 2. Environmental Challenges

  15. Editorial Writing Examples

    Getty Images Editorial writing is a style that can be hard to explain as it is usually a unique mixture of fact and opinion. Viewing editorial examples is one of the most helpful ways to learn what the style should look like. Click on the document images to open and download the two examples of editorials provided here.

  16. PDF Strategies for Essay Writing

    When you are writing an essay for a course assignment, you should make sure you understand what type of claim you are being asked to make. Many of your assignments ... conventions and expectations of the discipline in which you are writing. For example, while the conclusion to a STEM paper could focus on questions for further study, the

  17. Editorial Assignment

    You must use examples, strong facts, and details to support your stance. Each paragraph should be two or three sentences. Each paragraph contains a different argument for your opinion. ... Assignment: Write a 200-word editorial on the topic you have been assigned. The editorial should follow the attached format, and MUST include:

  18. Resources for Teachers: Creating Writing Assignments

    To develop an original idea? To learn and demonstrate the procedures, practices, and tools of your field of study? Defining the writing task Is the assignment sequenced so that students: (1) write a draft, (2) receive feedback (from you, fellow students, or staff members at the Writing and Communication Center), and (3) then revise it?

  19. How to Write an Essay Introduction

    Step 1: Hook your reader. Step 2: Give background information. Step 3: Present your thesis statement. Step 4: Map your essay's structure. Step 5: Check and revise. More examples of essay introductions. Other interesting articles. Frequently asked questions about the essay introduction.

  20. Sample Writing Assignments

    45 Sample Writing Assignments Process Analysis. Be the expert and teach your reader how to do something. You will focus on writing the main steps to completing this process and organizing based on chronology or priority of steps. This essay could be demonstrative in nature (ex. How to bathe and groom a dog at home or how to make banana nut ...

  21. How to Write a News Article

    Conclude with some less important—but relevant—details, interview quotes, and a summary. The first paragraph of a news article should begin with a topic sentence that concisely describes the main point of the story. Placing this sentence at the beginning of a news article hooks the reader immediately so the lede isn't buried.

  22. Assignment

    Definition: Assignment is a task given to students by a teacher or professor, usually as a means of assessing their understanding and application of course material. Assignments can take various forms, including essays, research papers, presentations, problem sets, lab reports, and more.

  23. APA Sample Paper

    Note: This page reflects the latest version of the APA Publication Manual (i.e., APA 7), which released in October 2019. The equivalent resource for the older APA 6 style can be found here. Media Files: APA Sample Student Paper , APA Sample Professional Paper This resource is enhanced by Acrobat PDF files. Download the free Acrobat Reader

  24. Academic Assignment Samples and Examples

    The basic structure is of three parts: introduction, discussion, and conclusion. It is, however, advisable to follow the structural guidelines from your tutor. For example, our master's sample assignment includes lots of headings and sub-headings. Undergraduate assignments are shorter and present a statistical analysis only.