What are op-eds?

• A. Opinion pieces expressing personal views
• B. News stories based on factual reporting
• C. Editorials written by a newspaper's staff
• D. Interactive content for audience participation

Answer: (A)

Op-eds are opinion pieces that typically appear on a dedicated page in a newspaper or magazine, allowing writers to express their personal views on various topics. These articles are distinct from news stories, as they reflect the author's thoughts, perspectives, or arguments rather than merely presenting factual information. Op-eds are often penned by community members, experts, or individuals with credible experiences, aiming to stimulate discussion and provide insight on societal issues, politics, or current events.

In contrast to news stories, which focus on objective reporting of facts, op-eds embrace subjectivity and are intended to persuade or inform the reader from the author’s unique point of view. While editorials can also express opinions, they are usually written by a publication's staff and reflect the organization’s collective stance, rather than an individual’s perspective. Interactive content typically involves audience engagement and participation, but does not align with the traditional format or purpose of op-eds. Thus, the key aspect of op-eds is their role as platforms for individual opinion, distinguishing them from other written forms in journalism.