By Darren Gilbert

However, there is a difference between having an opinion and actually writing an opinion piece or column, especially if you want to be published. So what does it take to write a good opinion piece?

Be informed

Before you start anything, it’s important to know what you’re talking about. After all, someone reading anything you write can immediately pick up on whether or not you’re informed about the subject.

As Wired writes on their website, if you want to submit an opinion piece to them, you need to ask yourself a few questions. One of them is to know if you are the right person to be writing the piece. “If the answer is no, it’s probably not wise to write an opinion piece about it.”

Georgina Guedes, a freelance writer and editor, agrees: “It’s important to have an understanding of the fundamentals of journalism, even though many of the ‘rules’ do not apply to column writing.” This is so your pieces are “journalistically sound, fair and appropriate”, adds Guedes.

“Be sure that your opinion is insightful and original by reading widely on your subject before you start,” adds Guedes. Columns should deliver on one of the three requirements of publishing – to inform, to educate, or to entertain”, adds Guedes. Ultimately, a columnist is unable to achieve any of the three requirements without understanding and knowing the subject that they are commenting on inside out.

Be different

The beauty about opinions is that there are so many different ones.

“It’s incredibly subjective,” says EWN columnist, Danielle Bowler. That means that you may have your own idea as to what makes up a good piece compared to the next person. This is not necessarily a bad thing – differing opinions should be welcomed and nurtured. After all, differing opinions can help you grapple with a topic from all angles rather than one.

“Sometimes, people want to see their opinions mirrored and reflected back at them, seeking comfort and co-sign from opinion pieces, and others want their view enhanced or challenged in a meaningful way,” adds Bowler.

Be fair and factual

While an opinion piece is just that – an opinion, you can’t simply write without boundaries. Anything you write needs to be grounded in some truth.

“As much as a column is by its very nature ‘opinion’, it should still be true and fair – and anyone writing such content should go to all lengths to check facts and ensure accuracy,” says Guedes.

Bowler agrees: “I always appreciate a well-researched piece that is thoughtful and considered in its opinion, considers the broader landscape of the point they are trying to make, and some pointing to the structural concerns, and ultimately is well-written.”

What do you think makes for a good opinion piece? Let us know in the comments below.