An editorial is a type of content that asserts an opinion or perspective using journalistic principles. Its purpose is to bring awareness to current events and topics of importance.
Editorials can often be controversial and challenging, but they should also stimulate thought and scientific discourse. They may comment on political, social, cultural or economic events or hot topics that are relevant to the academic discipline of the journal in which they appear [4]. The purpose of an editorial is not to persuade readers to agree with a particular position but to present the issues with clarity and credibility. As such, the tone of an editorial can be formal, conversational or somewhere in between and should convey the author’s voice and perspective. It should also be written in such a way that it is easy to understand and engaging for the reader.
Choosing an editorial topic can be tricky, but with a little research it is possible to find interesting topics that will capture the attention of the reader. Choosing a controversial topic is often the best way to create an editorial that will generate discussion and engagement. However, a good editorial should always be balanced and fair; a well-crafted article will often acknowledge counterarguments in order to keep the discussion honest and productive.