We receive dozens of submissions each week for the op-ed page. A few writers have been surprised when we’ve sent their work back to them with a simple request; please don’t just describe a problem or declare that something’s wrong — venture a solution. The easy job is complaining about a problem. The hard part is coming up with fixes.
Persuasion entails trying to see the argument from the other’s point of view. Therefore, the goal must be to persuade and convince, not beat the opponent into intellectual submission.
So, let the conversation begin.
How to submit an opinion article (op-ed)
• Preferred length is 700 words. Op-eds substantially longer or shorter will not be considered.
• All submissions must contain a one-sentence bio of the writer and relevant background, daytime phone number and email address. This information must be included in the manuscript, not in the email message that accompanies the manuscript.
• No more than two authors’ names may be included in the byline of the submission. If one or two others contributed, their names and titles may be inserted along with bio information at the bottom of the manuscript.
• No anonymous opinion pieces will be accepted. The name(s) of the author must be used in the byline, not the name of an organization, coalition or company.
• All submissions will be edited for length, accuracy and clarity. All submissions become the property of the St. Louis Post-Dispatch and will not be returned. They may be published or otherwise reused in any medium as long as they include the wording: “This opinion piece originally appeared in the St. Louis Post-Dispatch.”
• Third-party submissions (i.e. public relations professionals on behalf of a writer) must be confirmed by email from the writer before it will be considered for publication.
• The Post-Dispatch does not pay for unsolicited materials. All op-eds are submitted without a contract or agreement and with no express or implied guarantee of publication. Exclusive submissions are expected.
• Please do not phone or email for updates. We will contact you if we choose your submission. If a time constraint applies, please let us know in the initial submission, although we make no promise of publication on or by a specific date.