How to Write Feature Articles for Magazines
Basic Steps to Well-Written Magazine Articles
Before writing an article, appropriate planning should be completed. Each article needs a central theme, which directs all other aspects of the article. Once a theme is determined decide on the structure and organization of the article. Take this information to create a basic outline. The outline is important because it organizes all of the article’s components in a logical order. It forces the writer to focus on the article’s theme and guides the writing process.
Parts of a Feature Article
A feature article’s title is a defining point. It draws the reader in and gives the direction of the story. Other parts of the feature article are the lead, body, and conclusion.
- A lead starts the article. It needs to grab the reader’s attention and illustrate the central idea. Four types of article leads include:
- quote – uses a quote that encompasses the theme of the article
- anecdote – narrative lead that tells a story
- summary – tells the who, what, when, where, why, how
- surprising statement – peaks the reader’s interest with an unusual beginning
- The body of the article follows the lead. Paragraphs need to flow smoothly from one to the next, with sentences varied in length and structure to add interest. Some characteristics to use in writing the body include anecdotes to illustrate points, quotes and conversations from sources to add a personal touch, and specific examples to give substance to the article.
- Following the body of the article comes a good conclusion. Use this to summarize the main point and confirm the intended purpose of the article. In addition to this typical article structuring, many feature articles also include sidebar. An appropriate sidebar enhances the appearance in presentation, which appeals to editors that read your article...
Editing and Revising Articles
When writing is completed, take proper care in editing the article for submission. Things to look for are proper spelling, grammar, and punctuation. Overall structure needs to be examined to see if the lead and conclusion are most effective for the purpose of the article. Individual paragraphs and overall points need to flow smoothly and be appropriately adapted to the article’s theme. Have someone read the article for comments and suggestions, and then take time to make any necessary revisions.
Submitting Articles to Publications
Submitting the article to an editor is the final step to publication. The response will be either acceptance or rejection. Receiving a rejection letter should not prevent writers from submitting work to other magazines. If the article is accepted, the writer needs to decide on rights to sell. One-time rights are best for the writer to sell. Regardless of acceptances or rejection, the writer should continue searching for other markets to approach for article submission.
Writing good feature articles starts with planning
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