News editorials express opinions, engage readers and persuade them about specific issues. They differ from news articles primarily in their purpose and presentation. News articles focus on delivering factual information about events without bias; editorials include a subjective viewpoint supported by reasoning, analysis and rhetorical strategies.
The style of news writing can vary, from breaking stories about fast-developing events to uplifting profiles of local heroes. But all share a common goal: to inform and engage the reader. News editorials should convey verified facts in a concise format that’s easy for the average person to understand, even if they are not familiar with the topic or issue.
Avoid jargon and technical terms whenever possible, and always use straightforward language in your headlines and body paragraphs. The most effective news editorials utilize a variety of rhetorical strategies to engage their audience, including pathos (emotional appeals), ethos (credibility) and logos (logical arguments).
Editorials are a type of opinion piece that express the views of an organization, such as a newspaper or magazine. They may be written by staff members or by guest authors who submit their work for consideration. An op-ed, which is similar to an editorial, differs in that it is usually longer and typically written by experts who are not journalists with the publication.
The most effective editorials link their content to current events or hot topics. They are often written in response to an earlier article that sparked controversy or a recent event like an election, natural disaster, political upheaval or celebrity death. It’s important to track the news and jump on the opportunity when it arises, as this is what readers want to read and what will make an editor take notice.