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Write a Better Op-Ed (Hopefully)

Write a Better Op-Ed (Hopefully)

Writing a good op-ed is no easy feat. Fortunately, there are a few steps you can take to improve your odds.

1. Do Your Homework — Then Do Some More
Do more research than you think you’ll need. And always keep an eye out for new and interesting material that supports your claims.

2. Write a Complete Outline
An outline is the backbone of a good op-ed, so make yours count. Most important, write a full lead first. This will help you frame the piece mentally so that every point bolsters the overarching argument.

3. Find Time to Clear Your Head
The writing process consumes a lot of brain power. So step away from your draft every so often. Take a 15-minute coffee break and rest your mind. Then dive back in with fresh eyes.

Tim Rice
tim@kbc.us