How to Write a successful Op-Ed?

Start reading the Op-Ed pieces in the NYT. Free registration. Learn by example. Your topic is too broad for the traditional length of an Op-Ed piece. (Role, not roll, BTW.)

Thanks Gail, spellchecker won’t catch common sense!

If you remember nothing else anybody says here, remember this: keep it short and to the point. Don’t beat around the bush; state your point at the very beginning, then provide evidence, and then you’re done. Simple as that.
As Gail said, your topic is rather broad for an op-ed. I’d consider narrowing it a bit.
And, I must reiterate: be direct. No flowery language, no unnecessary adjectives or adverbs, etc.

Here’s a recent NYT piece by Gail Collins that had both substance and humor.

http://www.nytimes.com/2008/11/27/opinion/27collins.html?_r=1&scp=2&sq=Gail%20Collins&st=cse

Gails never fail to impress ;)

It’s what one gets to do when one is retired and have free time to do what one loves. (How’s that for an awkward sentence?)

has, not have?

I said it was awkward. I originally used “you” but didn’t like that and edited too hastily,O sharp-eyed one. :-)

There’s really no way for that sentence to not be awkward.

That was awkward.

Is “not to be awkward” any less awkward” Is “awkward” beginning to look very strange, or am I imaging things?

I think the word awkward is just inherently awkward.

Squawk. I am going to bed.

I had an op-ed piece published in my (small) hometown paper years ago. If I remember correctly it was informative (facts and figures), but also had a somewhat friendly tone. Since it’s an opinion piece, you can let a little of your personality through.

Is “squawkward” the sound one makes after discovering the creation of an awkward sentence?