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WRITING FOR THE NEEDLE
Before submitting a piece, here’s what you need to know:
WHAT WE LOOK FOR
Mission-Driven Content
All writing should deepen understanding of current events, issues, or trends in the MENA region. Articles should be informative, objective, and written with a general reader in mind—someone who may not have prior background in the topic.
Clarity and Accessibility
We value clear, concise writing. Avoid jargon, overcomplicated phrasing, or filler. Your piece should flow logically, with a clear argument or takeaway.
Originality
Bring something new to the table—a unique angle, an under-covered story, or a fresh analysis. Stay rooted in facts and avoid inflammatory or biased language.
Accuracy and Attribution
All claims, statistics, and references must be supported by credible sources. Quotes and paraphrased content must be accurately attributed through in-text citations with links to the original source.
Grammar & Style
Follow standard grammar conventions. Use an active voice where possible. Avoid run-on sentences and ensure punctuation, subject-verb agreement, and capitalization (e.g., Middle East, not middle east) are consistent.
Respectful Tone
Submissions must avoid discriminatory or divisive language, including (but not limited to) racism, sexism, Islamophobia, or antisemitism.
ARTICLE TYPES
Writers are welcome to choose whichever article format best suits their topic. Your choice of format won’t affect your chances of publication. We simply encourage you to select the style that allows you to most effectively communicate your insight, whether that means making a clear case, unpacking a complex issue, or sharing a personal perspective. Take a look at the three types of articles below, and write in the style of one of them:
Opinion & Argument (Op-Ed)
A clearly stated viewpoint on a timely issue, supported by evidence and analysis. This is a traditional opinion editorial. (~800–1,400 words)
Analysis
A deep dive into an issue, explaining its context and significance without making a definitive argument. These pieces are solely informative, without the argumentation and “call to action” that are present in an opinion editorial. (~1,200–1,500 words)
Dispatch or Perspective (Reflection)
Firsthand reporting, personal narratives, or place-based reflections that reveal insight into a topic through lived experience. This type of piece provides an opportunity for students to share their lived experiences in a narrative-style that sheds insight into a current trend or recent development in issues connected to the Middle East and North Africa. (~1000–1,500 words)
EDITORIAL PROCESS - WRITER INSTRUCTIONS
1. Writing and Submitting the First Draft
Once you've developed your idea, begin drafting with clarity, structure, and purpose in mind. Your piece should be well-researched, grounded in credible sources, and written for a general but informed audience. Once complete, submit your first draft to your Chapter Editor for initial review (your Chapter President will serve as Chapter Editor if one has not been selected yet). Don’t worry about perfection at this stage—focus on communicating your core argument or insight effectively.
2. Reviewing with your Chapter Editor
Your Chapter Editor will provide detailed feedback on your draft, focusing on structure, clarity, argumentation, and adherence to our style guidelines. This stage is a collaborative process—be open to revisions and ready to clarify or expand your points where needed. Editors are here to support you in refining your work, not to rewrite it for you. Aim for a constructive dialogue that sharpens your piece while preserving your voice.
3. Submitting a Final Draft to the National Board
Once your Chapter Editor has approved your revisions, your piece will be submitted to the National Editorial Board for final review. This step ensures consistency across all published content and upholds The Needle’s standards of quality, accuracy, and tone. The National Board may request minor final edits before publication. Once approved, your article will be scheduled for release on our website.