Writing tips

Opinion piece

An opinion piece is text that:

• expresses an opinion on a topic;
• is meant to persuade the reader by presenting arguments.

Structure:

• a title: this varies in length between one and eight words and indicates the direction of the text;
• introductory paragraph: this includes scene setting, main points and a thesis statement ( a sentence that expresses the opinion). The first couple of sentences should stimulate the reader to read the article.
• development paragraphs: these give the main points of the argument and each paragraph includes a topic sentence which addresses a different aspect of the thesis statement.
• concluding paragraph: this includes a statement of the main points and reiterates the thesis statement; ending with a general statement.

Style:

• A sentence has a left-right principle
  You start with something the reader already knows, something that fits into the writers way of thinking. In the second part of the sentence you reveal the information you want to share: what is happening?
• Try to write as active as possible
• Write as much as possible in the present tense
• Try to diversify the length of the sentences
  Use short sentences every now and then (5 - 10 words)
• Do not write sentences of more than 25 - 30 words
• Do not change style too abruptly
• Try not to repeat words too often, try to find good synonyms
• Use a new sentence for every thought or preferably a new paragraph
• Use short paragraphs

General tips:

• Try to write from the known to the unknown
• Use expressive language
  Words that are not too general and abstract. "The chairman walked away in disgust" instead of "it seemed that the chairman did not share our opinion"
• Only use information that is relevant to the article
• Don't use too many adjectives

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