“Let’s Write a Column”!

What is a column?
A column is not just a group of sentences on a page—it is a voice, a feeling, an opinion that reaches out from the writer’s soul and connects with the reader’s heart and mind. It is the written pulse of society, capturing its emotions, struggles, and spirit.

If you too wish to express yourself in print, influence minds, or touch hearts, then today, let me walk you through the art of writing a powerful, professional, and heartfelt newspaper column.

1. The Heart of the Column: Choosing the Right Topic

Before you begin writing, ask yourself: “What do I want to say?”
Choose a subject that matters—something relevant, emotional, or thought-provoking.

Popular Column Types:

Political: elections, policies, governance

Social: poverty, inflation, education

Literary/Philosophical: Sufism, literature, human thought

Emotional/Human Interest: motherhood, childhood, personal stories

Humorous: satire, observational comedy

Tip: Write about something close to your heart. If it moves you, it will move the reader.

 

2. The Tone: The Fragrance of Language

Your language should be graceful—neither too heavy with jargon nor too casual. It must have rhythm, simplicity, and power.

Writing Styles:

Narrative: Story-like, flowing naturally

Analytical: Based on logic and evidence

Emotional: Touches the heart, evokes feelings

Satirical: Sharp, witty, but respectful

Tip: Write in the tone that feels most natural to you. Authenticity always wins.

 

3. The Structure: The Skeleton of a Column

Writing a column is like constructing a beautiful house:

a) Introduction:
The first paragraph is the hook. It must be gripping, thought-provoking, or dramatic enough to make the reader stay.

b) Body:
This is the heart of your column. Include facts, arguments, stories, observations, or personal experiences. Each paragraph should smoothly lead to the next.

c) Conclusion:
A column should end with a strong message, a call to action, a reflection—or even a beautiful question that lingers in the reader’s mind.

4. Truth and Research: The Backbone of Writing

Credibility is everything. Always ensure what you write is truthful and, when possible, backed by facts. Never write what you don’t fully understand.

Tip: Quote reputable sources if you use statistics or historical data.

5. Personal Touch: Your Unique Voice

A column is not a news report—it is your voice. Let your emotions, memories, reflections, and thoughts come alive in your writing.
Use stories from your life, family, or society—they make the column human and relatable.

 

6. The Power of a Good Title

A strong title is your invitation card. It should stop the reader in their tracks.
Examples:

“The Night That Changed Everything”

“A Country in Debt, A Dream on Sale”

“When Truth Becomes Expensive”

“Mother Died, and the Newspaper Felt Empty”

The title is often half the battle won.

7. Consistency: The Habit of Writing

You won’t become a master in one day. The more you write, the sharper your voice becomes. Set a schedule—weekly, fortnightly, or monthly—and stick to it.

Tip: Never fear criticism. Every great columnist started somewhere and learned through feedback.

8. Getting Published: Taking the Leap

Start with local newspapers and online platforms

Share regularly on your social media to build a following

Send well-crafted columns to editors with a humble note

Don’t be disheartened by rejections—every “no” brings you closer to a “yes”

And Finally…

Writing a column is a sacred responsibility. Your words can inspire change, spark debate, offer comfort—or awaken a society.
So, write with sincerity, with courage, and with heart.

If this guide has touched your inner writer, then don’t wait. Pick up your pen or open your laptop and say it aloud with me:

Let’s write a column!