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What is Column Writing?
Grade Level:
Class 5
NLP, Law, History, Social Sciences, Literature, Journalism, Communication
Definition
What is it?
Column writing is a special type of article that appears regularly in newspapers, magazines, or websites. It's written by the same person, called a 'columnist,' who shares their personal opinions, thoughts, or insights on various topics like current events, sports, or social issues.
Simple Example
Quick Example
Imagine your favourite sports reporter writes an article every Sunday in the newspaper, giving their opinion on the latest cricket match and what the Indian team should do next. That regular, opinion-based article is a column.
Worked Example
Step-by-Step
Let's say you want to write a column about why school uniforms are important.
1. **Choose a clear topic:** 'The Importance of School Uniforms.'
---2. **Formulate your main opinion:** School uniforms help create equality and discipline among students.
---3. **Gather supporting points:** Think of reasons like 'no competition over clothes,' 'easier to identify students,' 'promotes a sense of belonging.'
---4. **Write an engaging introduction:** Start with a hook, maybe a question like, 'Ever wondered why we wear uniforms?'
---5. **Develop body paragraphs:** Dedicate one paragraph to each supporting point, explaining it with examples.
---6. **Conclude with a summary and call to action:** Reiterate your main opinion and maybe suggest schools continue enforcing uniforms strictly.
---7. **Review and edit:** Check for clear language, strong arguments, and correct grammar. Make sure your personal voice comes through.
**Result:** A well-structured opinion piece ready to be published as a column.
Why It Matters
Column writing is crucial in shaping public opinion and encouraging critical thinking. It's used in journalism, law (for legal commentary), and social sciences to discuss important issues. Careers like journalists, political commentators, and content creators rely heavily on this skill.
Common Mistakes
MISTAKE: Writing a column as if it's a neutral news report, just stating facts. | CORRECTION: A column must always include the writer's personal opinion, perspective, and analysis. It's not just news; it's *your* take on the news.
MISTAKE: Using very formal, academic language that is hard for a general audience to understand. | CORRECTION: Columns should be written in an accessible, engaging, and often conversational style to connect with a wide range of readers.
MISTAKE: Not having a consistent theme or angle for the column, making it seem like random thoughts. | CORRECTION: Even if the topic changes, a good column usually has a consistent 'voice' or a specific angle (e.g., humour, social critique, personal reflection) that readers come to expect.
Practice Questions
Try It Yourself
QUESTION: What is the main difference between a news report and a column? | ANSWER: A news report presents facts neutrally, while a column expresses the writer's personal opinion and analysis.
QUESTION: If a writer wants to share their thoughts on why India's space missions are inspiring, which type of writing would be most suitable: a research paper, a news flash, or a column? | ANSWER: A column.
QUESTION: Your school principal asks you to write a regular piece for the school newsletter about student life. What kind of writing would this be, and what elements should it include to be effective? | ANSWER: This would be a column. It should include your personal opinions and observations about student life, engaging stories, and a consistent, relatable tone.
MCQ
Quick Quiz
Which of the following is a key characteristic of column writing?
It always reports only facts without any opinion.
It is written by the same person regularly and includes personal opinions.
It is a very long, academic research paper.
It is a short story with fictional characters.
The Correct Answer Is:
B
Option B correctly identifies that column writing is regular, by the same person, and includes personal opinions. Options A, C, and D describe other forms of writing.
Real World Connection
In the Real World
You often see column writing in Indian newspapers like The Times of India or The Hindu, where senior journalists or experts share their views on current politics, economics, or social issues. Popular columnists like Chetan Bhagat often write columns for newspapers, discussing youth issues or social trends, influencing many readers across India.
Key Vocabulary
Key Terms
COLUMNIST: A person who writes a column regularly. | OPINION PIECE: An article that expresses the writer's personal views. | BYLINE: The line in a newspaper or magazine that gives the writer's name. | PERSPECTIVE: A particular attitude toward or way of regarding something; a point of view.
What's Next
What to Learn Next
Next, you can explore 'Editorial Writing,' which is similar but represents the official opinion of the publication, not just one person. Understanding both will give you a complete picture of opinion-based journalism!
