Opinionated people don't always write the best opinion articles

"I'm angry about 'such-and-such event' and I absolutely intend to tell to you why you should be be angry too through this rant I am trying to pass off as journalism."

There are some common mistakes that those who are new to opinion writing, and especially young journalists, make when it comes time to write an opinion article or column. All too often when the writer is attempting to present an insightful view of what they see as a better solution to a problem, the product ends up seeming like an ill-informed rant or temper tantrum.

Let's go to the movies, let's go write a review

Anyone can go to a movie and regurgitate the plot and their opinion about the film quality afterward, but what sets apart an OK movie review from a well-written one is poise and structure of the latter.

Photo by Allison M. Seward

Everyone loves (photographing) a parade

All too often as a student journalist the assignments that you receive will involve tedious board meetings, the newest organizational system being employed by the library on campus or the paving of the student parking lot. When an exciting story like the student union protesting increases in tuition fees arises, it is not only great in terms of writing, but the photos will undoubtedly come out better than when I covered a three hour long board meeting. Below are tips for photographing protests, marches and parades.