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Advancing Science for Global Health
Advancing Science for Global Health
Home > Global Health Matters Jan/Feb 2024 > How to use an opinion piece to promote your research Print

How to use an opinion piece to promote your research

January/February 2024 | Volume 23 Number 1

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Scientists should not rely solely on academic papers to circulate news about their research, according to a recent Nature article. Many general readers wish to keep abreast of scientific discovery, so writing an opinion piece—also referred to as an op-ed, commentary, or guest essay—is another way to share discoveries or express an informed view on important yet difficult-to-understand topics.

While such articles provide a service to readers unfamiliar with scientific journals, they also might provide personal and professional rewards for their authors. Read by colleagues and policymakers, guest essays raise writers' profiles within institutions and fields. Add to that, articles penned by global health scientists, especially those from low- and middle-income countries, can broaden the usual range of perspectives seen on op-ed pages and may help frame research priorities and funding.

Op-eds are based on data but provide a clear point-of-view and a takeaway. Below we’ve provided a nine-step recipe, based on tips from experts, to help you reach a wider audience as a professional global health researcher.

  1. Be timely… or timeless: Either discuss a hot topic, one relevant to current issues, or address a familiar subject and provide your own new ideas.
  2. Give people a reason to read: Begin with a compelling anecdote to hook busy readers.
  3. State your argument up top: Follow your attention-grabber with an outline of your argument. Why not raise a question?
  4. Make every word count: Focus on one topic, be specific and remain within your areas of expertise. 
  5. Be clear, be real: Write as if you’re explaining it to your grandmother. 
  6. Tap into your creativity: A quippy title and fresh metaphors win the day.  
  7. Avoid scientific jargon and acronyms: Back up your arguments with facts, stats, examples and expertise, but push past shortcut explanations used on the job.
  8. End where you began: Conclude by either restating the issue, answering the question you raised, or proposing next steps. 
  9. Send it out: Explore all opportunities to publish, not just high-profile channels. 

More Information

Updated February 14, 2024

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