An opinion piece is a variant of a research article designed to share your perspective on an issue of contemporary concern. It’s less structured than a research paper, but still requires clear and concise writing and a focus on your key argument.
Opinion pieces can be used to help inform policy and political decision makers, peers and the wider public. They provide a platform for academics to communicate the value of their research and the impact it can have in real life. They are also useful for promoting your research, especially when it’s linked to something in the news. For example, during the pandemic we saw professors and students using their expertise to advocate for specific policies such as College of Charleston following CDC advice and Utah Senator Mitt Romney defending the filibuster as a positive element of US democracy.
When pitching an opinion piece, remember that the editors of national newspapers receive hundreds of emails a day asking for opinions on current events or issues. So, be strategic when you pitch – do a quick keyword search of your potential publication and look at their guidelines and what types of articles they have previously published on the topic.
It’s also worth remembering that a publication will generally only publish an opinion piece if it is timely, meaning it responds to or comments on something that has already happened or is currently in the news. Finally, a good opinion piece will always have a strong standfirst and title, that works with the news hook or story you’re responding to. This will help you grab and hold readers’ attention.