Tips for effective editorials

• Choose editorial topics that are interesting and relevant to the majority of your readers. Editorials on obscure topics have limited impact.
• Develop topics from one specific, limited area, phrased in one sentence, and expand it into the body of the editorial.
• Write about a current issue for its impact value. Don't harp on something that has been decided months ago.
• Have a purpose well in mind which should be accomplished with sufficient data.
• Don't shy away from controversial topics. Tackle them if they're important for your readers.
• Organize all data into well-reasoned arguments with each argument leading up to the conclusion.
• Don't begin with a question. You'll prompt readers to think about their own views not yours.
• Make your point clear and get to it quickly. If readers are confused or bored, you're sunk. Keep it under 300 words.
• Be sincere. If you have a strong conviction in your opinion, readers will sense it.
• Research your topic thoroughly. Support opinions with facts.
• Be fair. Present facts and opinions from both sides.
• Clarify tricky aspects with widely understood analogy or an illustration that makes for easier understanding.
• Keep personalities out of it. Personal attacks are inappropriate.
• Direct the editorial to the establishments of a consensus.
• Make sure your solutions are logical and pratical.
• Make sure your conclusion leave readers with a clear understanding of your opinion. Stimulate readers to think and feel.