Understanding the USA Today Op Ed Submission Process
Are you looking to share your voice with a broader audience? Submitting an op ed to USA Today can be a great way to do so. But what does it take to get your piece published? Let’s delve into the process and what you need to know.
Who Can Submit an Op Ed to USA Today?
USA Today accepts op ed submissions from a variety of sources, including individuals, organizations, and experts in their respective fields. If you have a unique perspective or expertise on a particular topic, you’re likely eligible to submit an op ed.
Choosing the Right Topic
When selecting a topic for your op ed, consider what’s currently trending and what resonates with the USA Today audience. Look for issues that are relevant, timely, and have the potential to spark a conversation.
The Structure of a USA Today Op Ed
A typical op ed for USA Today follows a specific structure. Here’s what you need to include:
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Headline: A catchy, attention-grabbing title that encapsulates the essence of your piece.
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Byline: Your name, title, and affiliation (if applicable).
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Opening Paragraph: A compelling introduction that hooks the reader and sets the stage for the rest of your piece.
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Body: The main content of your op ed, which should be well-organized and include evidence, examples, and data to support your arguments.
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Closing Paragraph: A strong conclusion that summarizes your main points and leaves the reader with a lasting impression.
Writing Style and Tone
USA Today’s op ed section is known for its diverse range of voices and perspectives. When writing your piece, aim for a clear, concise, and engaging style. Avoid jargon and overly complex language, and strive to maintain a respectful and inclusive tone.
Formatting Your Submission
When formatting your op ed submission, follow these guidelines:
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Word Count: Aim for a length of 600-800 words.
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Formatting: Use a standard 12-point font, such as Times New Roman, and double-space your text.
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File Format: Submit your op ed as a Word document (.doc or .docx).
Submitting Your Op Ed
USA Today accepts op ed submissions through its online submission form. To submit your piece, follow these steps:
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Visit the USA Today website and navigate to the op ed submission page.
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Fill out the required information, including your name, contact information, and the topic of your op ed.
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Upload your op ed as a Word document.
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Review your submission for any errors or omissions before submitting.
What to Expect After Submitting
After submitting your op ed, it may take several weeks to hear back from the editors. If your piece is selected for publication, you’ll be notified via email. Keep in mind that not all submissions are chosen for publication, and feedback from the editors may be limited.
Additional Tips for Success
Here are some additional tips to help increase your chances of having your op ed published in USA Today:
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Research: Familiarize yourself with the publication’s style and content to ensure your piece aligns with its standards.
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Proofread: Carefully proofread your submission for any grammatical errors or typos.
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Follow Instructions: Adhere to the submission guidelines provided by USA Today to avoid any unnecessary delays.
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Be Patient: The publication process can be lengthy, so be prepared to wait for a response.
By following these guidelines and tips, you’ll be well on your way to submitting a compelling op ed to USA Today. Good luck!