Writing an editorial is different from writing a news story. Where in a news story, the facts are prized, and opinions unwelcome, in an editorial, the piece is based on opinion with facts as support. Some editorials are written by columnists and others by newspaper editors. Each newspaper has their own system: some editorials don't receive a byline at all. Writing an editorial is a privilege and a service to readers. Read on to learn how to write a good one.

Choose a current issue. For your editorial to be good, it will have to address an issue or topic that is on the public mind as of the day it gets into print. Look to broadcasting or surveys for the biggest daily topics.

Start out with a thesis. It doesn't have to be stated up front, but your thesis is the foundation for your editorial. The thesis represents a clear stance you are taking on a particular subject.

Use facts as examples. Do a little light research on the topic, enough for you to knowledgeably make use of statistics or anecdotes you find as support for your position.

Strike a balance between off-topic banter and dry reporting. Intersperse your facts with emotional or social appeals to the reader. A lot of editorials use persuasive language to "connect" the reader, and as a result, editorials often get read more than news stories. A headline that says "Party Blunders" might get more readership than a news headline like "Local Party Undergoes Change." Likewise, readers will follow along more easily when the piece includes direct persuasion and personal touches not found in news reporting.

Team up with others. If you are an editor in a newsroom, your paper might want a group-written editorial representing the combined opinion of you and your colleagues. If you can get together and draft a thesis: great. If not, you might have to go it alone, and take turns writing the editorials.