Glossary for Writers – Types of Articles
Writing Terminology Every Freelance Writer Needs to Know
May 7, 2009
Any writer who is looking for freelance writing jobs should be able to say what category their article falls into. Equally, when answering calls for submissions from editors offering writing work, freelance writers need to be sure that they know what kind of article the editor is looking for.
Filler Article
As the name suggests a filler is a short piece or article, usually around 250 – 300 words which editors of print magazine use to fill space. These small pieces can be an excellent way for new writers to introduce themselves to editors of magazine and might lead to commissions for longer articles.
Feature Article
The feature article is a general term which covers a large number of types of articles, such as:
- News — An in-depth article covering current affairs.
- Service Article — An article reviewing a consumer product or service, comparing different makes or versions and delivering quality information to help purchasers make a choice.
- How-to Article — How-to articles provide step-by-step advice, guiding the reader to do something, this might involve anything from cooking recipes, to help with computer programs
- Self-Help Article — As the name suggest, these article contain advice for readers on a variety of life situations.
- Human Interest or “True Life” — Stories which feature the experiences of real people (i.e. non-celebrity) or real events which hold an interest for the wider audience.
- Personality Profile — A portrait in words of a celebrated individual.
- Interview — A question and answer with a celebrated individual.
- Exposé or “Investigative Piece” — An article which uncovers previously unknown facts, normall concerning business, politics or celebrities.
- Travel Piece — As the name suggests, are reviews of locations and destinations for business or vacation around the world which examines the sights, experiences, and services which can be found.
Seasonal and Evergreen Articles
Just as in gardening, articles have their time to flourish...
- Seasonal Article – This is an article that relates to a particular time of year. It might be related to holidays, events such as Valentine's or Mother's day, or activities which are literally related to the seasons.
- Evergreen Article or “Timeless Piece” – These are articles which are appropriate at any time of the year, and which preferably remain relevant for several years without the necessity for updating.
Op/Ed Piece
An opinion piece on a current event which runs opposite the editorial page – which gave rise to the “Op-Ed” title: OPposite EDitorial
Personal Experience or Personal Essay
These articles are written in first person and relate some personal experience which is of interest to the general public.
Column
Similar to a Personal Essay, a Column is a short newspaper or magazine piece, written in first person which might be syndicated but which appears on a regular basis, weekly or monthly.
Finally, here is one last word that every freelance writer needs to know…
Deadline
The deadline is the date when you must deliver your article to the editor of the magazine. A professional writer must never miss a deadline.
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