Differences Between Blog, Letter, and Opinion Column Formats

Blog/Opinion Column

• Typically includes a title, intro, body, and conclusion
• Key features include personal experience, topicality, and the use of voice and example

Opinion Column

• Involves hard facts and logos to support opinions
• Includes a call to action and sometimes humor (e.g., a joke)
• Structured with a direct opening, concise argument, references, and a call to action

Letter Writing

• Typically includes an address and date
• Begins with a greeting that addresses a specific audience
• Shares a personal experience or opinion with a specific purpose

Comparative Features

• A blog often shares experiences, data, and numbers with a wider audience
• An opinion column typically presents a direct, concise argument with references
• A letter is often a personal and intimate way to share an opinion or experience with one person
• Both blog and opinion column may use idiomatic expressions, complex grammatical structures, and nuance to engage their audience

Learn about the key features and structures of blogs, letters, and opinion columns. Explore how each format differs in terms of content, style, and purpose.