An editorial is an opinion piece aiming to persuade. It can be found in a variety of publications, including newspapers and magazines, public statements and even online content. Unlike a standard news article, an editorial is meant to share an educated opinion on current events and issues.
The purpose of an editorial is to captivate the reader and draw them into your point of view, much like a good meal leaves you with a wholesome after taste. To do this, an editorial must be clear enough to communicate your point of view but also engaging and interesting enough to hold the reader’s attention from beginning to end.
Often, editorials are meant to balance perspectives and reconcile seemingly conflicting or controversial viewpoints – whether between politicians (in newspapers) or among researchers in academic journals. However, an editorial should never be a mere polemic. Instead, it should be objective in its analysis of events and evidence, as well as respectful to common counter arguments.
Aside from a critical and analytical voice, an editorial may also use persuasive writing techniques to influence the reader. A good editorial will always leave the reader feeling enlightened, empowered or inspired.
Aside from a political, social or cultural issue, an editorial can also comment on specific topics that are relevant to the discipline of a journal. For example, an editorial could focus on a new development in science that would otherwise not warrant a full-length invited review in that same publication.