Five takeaways from the ABSW Opinion-Writing Masterclass

Opinion articles help balance scientific discussions by giving voice to different viewpoints and much-needed context and analysis. ‘Science writers [often] find it difficult to write an opinion piece, as they spend an age being silent –  there’s no I or me in news stories,’ says Ehsan Masood, Editorials Editor at Nature.  

Masood led a workshop on opinion writing at the Dana Research Centre and Library in London on 3 October 2025. There, he was joined by Sara Abdulla, former Senior Editor at The Washington Post, and John Whitfield, Comment Editor at Research Professional News. Together, they offered their advice on how to pitch and write an effective and grabbing opinion piece. 

Finding an opinion 

Whitfield explains that commenting on recurring themes with fresh angles, or drawing on personal experiences, anecdotes and involvement with causes or groups, are great sources of ideas. Pieces can also respond in real-time to news or events such as conferences, award ceremonies or political announcements.  

Why you, why this, why now 

Abdulla explains that editors and readers need to understand why they should care about the piece and what makes you, as the author, the right person to comment on the topic. The timing of an opinion piece is also crucial for it to land well. If a pitch is rejected, try another outlet or revisit it at a different moment.  

Anatomy of an opinion piece 

State the opinion clearly in the headline and reinforce the key takeaway message throughout the piece, like ‘a golden thread of argument,’ Abdulla says.  Emphasise it at the end of paragraphs, rather than burying it midway. Acknowledge the opposing side of the argument, using any holes in critics’ comments to strengthen your point. Leave readers with a final thought that ties everything together, ideally linking back to the opening idea.  

Making your argument stronger 

Masood highlights that facts – including numbers, graphs and scientific concepts – are ‘essential in opinion writing’, as they substantiate your argument. Quotes are not essential but can add depth and expertise to the piece.  

Read, read, read 

Opinion articles come in a variety of flavours, such as columns, op-eds and editorials.  Analytically read a wide range of pieces from various outlets to study different writing styles, tones and structures, which is useful to apply to any opinion writing.  Abdulla recommends reading several opinion pieces from a target publication to help tailor your pitch effectively.  

As with any science writing, avoid jargon, use the active voice, and write concisely and accurately. Readers are under no obligation to read opinion articles, so make yours as engaging and compelling as possible.