Writing an op-ed is a way to communicate directly to the public, by submitting an opinion piece to a newspaper opinion editor. Before writing an op-ed or letter to the editor, be sure that you have something to say and that you can offer a distinct perspective. Opinion editors seek clear, concise opinions on a topic, not discussion of two or more perspectives on an issue. Newspapers typically receive far more op-ed submissions than they can print, so keep in mind that your op-ed may not be published.

Word Limit – To increase your chances of publication, find out the op-ed word limit for the specific newspaper you will submit by calling the newspaper. The word limit will vary, based on newspaper policy, from 250 up to 1,000 words.

Address and Phone Number – Always include your address and a phone number where you can be reached when submitting an op-ed. If your op-ed is selected for publication, or if the opinion editor has questions or would like to shorten your piece, he/she will contact you. Also include your title and affiliation, if appropriate to the content of your op-ed.

Timely Response – When submitting an op-ed or responding to an editor, timeliness is key. The faster you are able to respond to breaking news events that happened within the last few days or weeks, the more likely your op-ed will be considered for submission. Also, op-eds are printed quickly, so be sure to respond in a timely manner when contacted regarding publication.

Make One Major Point – Op-eds should clearly state one major point with a strong perspective. It’s advisable not to digress into other topics that do not support this one major point. Often opinion editors select op-eds that comment on an issue that is being covered in the news, or is missing from the current public conversation on an issue.

Local Newspapers Have Impact – Op-eds written for local newspapers are often read by members of Congress and other policymakers. Another reason for submitting op-eds to local papers is to increase your chances for publication; smaller newspapers do not have as many op-ed submissions as larger, national newspapers. For additional information about interacting with policymakers on scientific issues, visit the AAAS Working With Congress Web site and the AAAS Center for Science, Technology and Congress Web site.

A selection of AAAS op-eds are available online.

For an example of how op-ed editors think, listen to these 2005 EurekAlert! seminar remarks given by John Timpane, commentary page editor at the Philadelphia Inquirer.