How to Write an Op-Ed in English: A Guide for Non-Native Opinion Writers

You have a strong opinion about something — climate policy, remote work, education reform — and you want the world to read it. But writing an op-ed in English when it's not your first language can feel like a high bar. The good news? It's not about perfect grammar. It's about a clear argument, a solid structure, and a voice that sounds human. This guide will show you exactly how to write op-ed English that editors will take seriously, even if English is your second (or third) language.

What Exactly Is an Op-Ed?

An op-ed is a short opinion piece published in a newspaper, magazine, or online platform. It's called "op-ed" because it traditionally appeared opposite the editorial page. But unlike an editorial (which represents the publication's view), an op-ed is written by an outside contributor — someone like you.

The goal is simple: persuade readers to see an issue your way. You don't need to be a journalist or a famous expert. You just need a clear point of view and the ability to back it up.

The Core Structure of an Op-Ed

Every strong op-ed follows a basic blueprint. Get this right, and you're already 80% of the way there.

Let me walk through each part with real-world advice for non-native writers.

1. The Lede — Grab Them Fast

You have about three seconds to convince someone to keep reading. Start with a specific moment, a surprising fact, or a short story. Avoid generic openings like "In today's society."

Good lede: "Last month, my 12-year-old daughter asked me why her school's library had no books by authors who looked like her."

Weak lede: "Diversity in school libraries has become an important topic in recent years."

Which one makes you want to read more? Exactly. Use concrete details.

2. The Argument — Say What You Think

After the lede, state your position in one clear sentence. Don't hide your opinion. This is an op-ed, not a news article.

Use phrases like:

• "I believe that..."
• "Here's the problem: ..."
• "The real issue is..."

Keep this paragraph short — 2–3 sentences max.

3. The Evidence — Back It Up

Now show why your argument holds. You can use:

• A personal experience
• A statistic (with a source)
• An example from another country or city
• A quote from an expert

For non-native writers, this is where simple language works best. Short sentences with one idea each are easier to write — and easier to read.

4. The Counterpoint — Show You've Thought About It

Nothing kills credibility faster than ignoring the other side. Spend one paragraph acknowledging the strongest counterargument, then explain why your view still wins.

Try this structure:

• "Some people argue that..."
• "And they have a point. But here's what they're missing..."

This makes you sound fair and thoughtful.

5. The Conclusion — End with a Punch

Don't just repeat your argument. End with a call to action or a forward-looking statement. What do you want readers to do? Think? Change a behavior? Support a policy?

Strong closer: "If we want our children to see themselves in the stories they read, we don't need a new law. We need parents who demand better."

Language Tips for Non-Native Writers

You don't need native-level fluency to write a strong op-ed. But you do need to avoid a few common traps.

Keep Sentences Short

Long, complex sentences are where grammar mistakes hide. Write one idea per sentence. Read each sentence aloud — if you run out of breath, break it up.

Use Strong Verbs, Not Weak Phrases

Instead of "make a decision," write "decide." Instead of "give support to," write "support." Strong verbs make your writing tighter and more confident.

Avoid "I Think" Everywhere

Once you've stated your opinion, you don't need to keep saying "I think." Just say it. Compare:

• "I think that the current policy is not working."
• "The current policy is failing."

The second one sounds more authoritative.

Get a Second Pair of Eyes

Ask a native-speaking friend or use a tool to check for unnatural phrasing. But don't let perfect be the enemy of good. Most editors care more about a strong argument than flawless grammar.

A Mini Op-Ed Example

Here's a short op-ed written in the structure above. Notice how simple the language is.

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Title: Why My Daughter's Library Needs More Than Just Books

Last week, my daughter came home from school and asked, "Mom, why don't any of the characters in my library look like me?" I didn't have an answer. (Lede)

School libraries across this country have a diversity problem. Most books still feature white, middle-class protagonists. This sends a quiet but powerful message to children of color: your stories don't matter. (Argument)

I'm not making this up. A 2023 study from the Cooperative Children's Book Center found that only 12% of children's books published last year featured Black, Latino, or Indigenous main characters. That number has barely moved in a decade. (Evidence)

Some will say that schools can't control what publishers produce. They're right — but they can control what they buy. Every school has a budget. Every librarian makes choices. (Counterpoint)

I'm not asking for a revolution. I'm asking for a simple change: before you order next year's books, count how many authors of color are on your list. If the number is zero, start over. (Conclusion)

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See how it flows? Short paragraphs, clear opinion, real example. You can write this.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Being too neutral. An op-ed is not a report. Take a side. If readers can't tell what you think, you've failed.
• Using weak hedges. "Maybe," "perhaps," "it could be argued that" — these drain your authority. Cut them.
• Forgetting a call to action. What should happen next? Tell your reader.
• Writing too long. Most op-eds are 600–800 words. Tighten every paragraph. If a sentence doesn't push your argument forward, delete it.

Ready to Write Your Own?

You don't need to be a native speaker to have a voice that matters. Pick an issue you care about, follow the structure above, and write a first draft. It won't be perfect — and that's fine. Edit it. Read it aloud. Then send it.

Want to check if your English is ready for publication? Test your writing, reading, listening, and speaking skills for free on English Measure. Get instant feedback on your level and know exactly where to improve — before you hit "send" to an editor.

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