Planning Your Article
Pick Your Argument: You can't save the world in 500-700 words! Pick one specific argument that you want to make and explain it with two or three key points. Use a few examples for each point in order to demonstrate what you mean.
Policy Focus: As a think tank the Atlantic Community aims to generate well thought out policy recommendations. We don't need to know the whole history of a country in your op-ed. Quickly establish the problem or issue that you're discussing and finish with concrete, practical steps you recommend to improve the situation.
Be Creative: "America is declining...and China is rising" has been said over a thousand times before! Be creative with both your ideas and approach to common issues. What can you offer to the debate that is unique and interesting?
Feasibility: Will your policy recommendations cost money? If so, explain how you'd pay for it! This is an often missed question and including a solution will make your argument even more convincing.
Writing Style:
Your Thesis: The introduction is the most important part. Sum up your main points in the thesis box and state your argument clearly at the beginning of the article.
Language: If your English is not perfect, don't worry! Our editorial team can help you improve your writing and what we look for is a clear well thought out argument. At Atlantic Community it is your ideas and policy recommendations that matter most.
Be Active: The active voice ("I believe..." or "this means...") is more concise and easier to read than the passive voice ("it could be argued that"). By being direct you give your argument more strength.
Keep it Short: Short sentences make your argument clear. Short paragraphs make your article easier to read.
Submitting Your Article
Register: To submit your article you must first register as a member of atlantic-community.org here. Once you've confirmed your membership you can submit your article here or using the button on the homepage.
Picture/Byline: Please remember to include an author byline at the end of your article (1-2 sentences about yourself) and to upload a professional picture to your AC profile. The picture should be scaled 85 x 125 pixels.
Need more guidance? You can see further tips on writing Op-Eds in our piece: ‘How to Write a Convincing Opinion Article' or contact the editorial team on "staff(at)atlantic-community.org".
Written on behalf of the editorial team by Mathew Shearman.
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