Definition of Opinion Column

In the written press, both printed and digital, one of the sections that brings more prestige to the media it is, precisely, the opinion column. It is so named because it is presented in the form of an elongated column and because in it the author expresses his point of view on a current issue.

In journalistic parlance, the author of the column is also known as a columnist.

Unlike other sections of the Newspaper, on it appears the name of the writer and sometimes a photograph of him. It is a section written by an editor of the medium, by a regular contributor or by a renowned writer. The collaboration of a socially recognized columnist provides a greater reputation for the newspaper.

There is no single format for expressing opinions in the media

Although the opinion column is associated with the written press, it also exists in other formats, such as the video column for YouTube or a version adapted to radio or television. In recent years, another Format with characteristics very similar to the column, the opinion blog.

Some general considerations

This section provides a Value judgment on a certain topic, usually on previously known facts and of general interest.

The opinion that is defended must have a foundation. In other words, the columnist has to state precisely what his ideas are and why he defends them.

The choice of the theme and the chosen title is one of the most important issues. In this sense, the columnist usually adapts to the medium of communication in which he writes (in a newspaper with an economic theme, topics related to the economy and not about any other matter).

It is recommended that the author of the column knows the line editorial the environment and, in parallel, be informed about the profile of your readers.

As there is limited space, it is advisable for the columnist to be very precise and direct in the exposition of your opinion.

In order for the column to arouse the interest of readers, it is convenient that the ideas presented are written in a suggestive way. In a way, the opinion column is a mini-story that should catch the reader from the first lines.

One of the goals of this section is to provide readers with strong arguments so that they can have their own personal opinion.

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