Opinion column template: structure a persuasive column
A good column argues one point well. The template organises your thesis, the evidence, the counter-argument you answer and a strong close.
How it works
Open Opinion and Column in your workspace and fill in what you know. Rough notes are fine; required fields are marked.
| You give | Example |
|---|---|
| Author name / persona (optional) | Political Editor / Senior Correspondent |
| Publication (optional) | The Daily Herald, City Times Online |
| Core argument / position | Anti-corruption courts are failing because prosecutors lack resources and independence |
| Key evidence / examples | Only 12 convictions in 5 years, anti-corruption budget cut 30%, three high-profile acquittals |
| Counter-argument to address (optional) | Government says conviction rate is improving / judiciary is independent |
| Tone (optional) | Measured / analytical, Passionate / urgent, Satirical, Hopeful / constructive |
| Target audience (optional) | General public / Policymakers / Business community |
| Target length (words) (optional) | 400, 600, 800, 1000 |
Press Write and the draft appears as it is written. Edit it, then save it, translate it, turn it into a script or social posts, or send it to your editor.
Tips
- One clear thesis beats three loose ones.
- Answer the strongest counter-argument, not the weakest.
Accuracy first
Byline writes only from the facts you give it. It never invents quotes, sources or figures, and when something important is missing it marks the gap, like [CHECK: name of the spokesperson], for you to fill. You check every fact before publishing.
Questions
Is the opinion mine?
Yes. Byline structures your argument; the view is yours.
Is the Opinion and Column template free?
It is included from the Solo Journalist plan. New accounts get a free trial with every template.
Which AI models can I use?
You can choose Claude, GPT, Gemini, Llama or Mistral, depending on your plan.
Related templates
Breaking News
Deadline-ready breaking news in the inverted pyramid, with every claim attributed and anything unconfirmed flagged.
Feature Story
Narrative feature with a real opening scene, nut graf, voices and a strong ending — built only from what you saw and heard.
Broadcast Script
Radio and TV scripts written for the ear, timed to the slot, with numbers and names easy to read aloud.
Copy Edit
A rigorous copy edit: grammar, clarity, length and house style — with facts and quotes left exactly as they are, and inconsistencies flagged.
Headline Generator
Five accurate headlines for web search, print, social, broadcast and a fresh angle — none promising more than the story delivers.
Social Media Pack
Ready-to-post WhatsApp, Facebook, X and Instagram versions of one story, each written for its platform.