Column writing is known for its unique structure due to direct critics towards a certain topic, trend, news reports. But what makes a columnist a column writer?
1. A column article must have a column writer that is skillful where he/she does have coherence when he/she writes his/her piece. Basically, a columnist always directs his/her argument towards a certain topic.
2. For you to have a great column article, you must have an expertise in a specific subject matter that will be the topic when you write an article. You must have a background knowledge about the current events in politics, especially senate hearings, happenings inside the supreme court and some information about our President and Vice President also the events to the upcoming elections. The topic will also help the article to be credible and trusted.
3. Before writing a column article, you must also have a background knowledge about the reader/judge so that we can understand the topic that will get the interest and engagement of a certain target audience. Most of the readers want you to criticize and give a brief opinion about a certain public official but take note that not all of the readers want that angle.
4. Adaptability is also a must because nowadays, relevance towards a certain topic is needed especially for a writer who needs to show facts like a column writer. You must stay with the current writing style to fit in different terms and trends.
5. You must always practice writing this type of category because consistency is needed when it comes to column writing, some journalist says you need to produce articles everyday to maintain your writing style and does not have to adapt when it changes.
6. You must accept and learn from the critiques of your article, do remember that a column writer is a column writer if he/she can accept hurtful critiques from his/her mentor/coach.
7. Everyday is a different topic, as the writing style changes, the topic around us also changes especially to column writing due to daily senate hearings, political events specifically elections. So a columnist must understand that trends about column articles alter overtime. We can also relate our current events to a topic because a lot of our readers can understand what it is all about.
8. You can also ask questions to your readers that will provoke them to your argument. Basically, we need to encourage our readers to engage, reflect and respond to our provoking questions just like in editorial and feature writing but this one (column) is a more direct one.
9. A column article must be finished with a hook, it means that we do need to conclude to our last paragraph a last punch or end it with an impact. You can also use some quotes from experts that are deeply related to our topic. Finishing a column with a strong hook is essential for creating a memorable impact on the reader. A compelling conclusion can prompt reflection, encouraging readers to think critically about the topic or explore new perspectives. It can also inspire action, motivating them to engage further, whether by discussing the issue or applying insights to their own lives. Additionally, a well-crafted ending resonates emotionally, ensuring that your message lingers in their minds.
By fostering discussion, a good hook serves as a conversation starter, inviting readers to share their thoughts and experiences. Ultimately, a powerful conclusion not only wraps up your argument but also enhances its relevance and reach. Writing is an art, writing is the painting of the voice.
About the Author
Cahrl Jayson Reyes is a 7-year feature writer who has passion to inspire co-journalists. Currently a feature writer and a publisher of a school publication. [Among Charl’s accolades as of writing is him becoming a Regional Schools Press Conference (RSPC) Qualifier in ScieTech Writing, and Division Schools Press Conference (DSPC) qualifier in Feature Writing.]
