Make a Statement: Write an Op-ed
Atlanta skyline, 2006
Goals
Know the basics about writing Op-eds
Know who your Legislators are
Resources for Writing Op-Eds
Advocating from Home Resources
Top 10 Tips on How to Write an Effective Op-Ed
1. Choose a topic of interest that is in the news…
2. Grab the reader’s attention early…
3. Provoke a reaction…
4. Do your research & fact checking…
5. Illustrate with real stories…
6. Make it personal…
7. Follow directions…
8. Keep It short…
9. Keep it clean…
10. End with a call to action…
What is an Op-Ed?
• An op-ed is an opinion column in print and digital newspapers. An op-ed appears on the page opposite from the editorial page.
• An op-ed is a wonderful platform from which to advocate for a change
• Op-eds are typically short essays, usually under 800 words.
Top 8 Tips on How to Get an Op-Ed Published
1. Be targeted…
2. Get to know the decision-makers and influencers at the newspaper…
3. Understand that you're writing on spec and deadlines…
4. Don't be afraid to ghostwrite…
5. Make it about a cause larger than you…
6. Find creative ways to position your point of view…