How to Write a Feature Article

How to Write a Feature Article: Complete Guide for Students and Journalists

Estimated reading time: 7 minutes

• Understanding the difference between news articles and feature articles.
• Key structural elements of a feature article.
• Effective interviewing techniques for gathering insights.
• Strategies for enhancing descriptive writing.
• Sample feature articles that resonate with Filipino readers.

Table of Contents

• Understanding the Difference: Feature Article vs. News Article
• The Structure of a Feature Article
• Interviewing Techniques for Feature Articles
• Mastering Descriptive Writing
• Sample Feature Articles Relevant to Filipino Readers
• Applying These Insights
• Conclusion
• FAQ

Understanding the Difference: Feature Article vs. News Article

As an experienced academic content writer, I understand the intricate balance between storytelling and journalistic integrity that is essential in crafting a compelling feature article. Whether you are a student delving into journalism or an aspiring writer looking to hone your skills, understanding how to effectively write a feature article is pivotal.

A feature article differs significantly from a news article. While the latter delivers critical information in a concise manner primarily answering the who, what, when, where, and why of an event, feature articles allow for a broader exploration of topics. They often incorporate storytelling techniques, deep character exploration, and rich descriptive language to engage readers on a more personal level. By the end of this post, you will learn about the distinct structure of a feature article, techniques for effective interviewing, and the art of descriptive writing.

1. The Purpose

The primary purpose of news articles is to inform; they report facts clearly and succinctly, focusing on the event or issue at hand. In contrast, feature articles aim to tell a story, providing deeper insights into the lives involved or the context in which events occur. According to the Purdue Online Writing Lab, while news articles are timely, feature articles explore topics in a more timeless manner, often delving into the “why” and “how” of a situation.

2. The Structure

While both types of articles share a basic structure (headline, lead, body, and conclusion), the execution and focus diverge:

• News Article: Usually starts with the most important facts, often using the inverted pyramid style. This places essential information at the top, tapering down to less critical details.
• Feature Article: Starts with a captivating lead that might not immediately address the main point but hooks the reader. The body contains detailed narratives, anecdotes, and in-depth analysis.

The Structure of a Feature Article

1. The Lead

The lead of a feature article serves as the entry point for readers. It could be a compelling anecdote or a provocative statement that draws attention. Here are a few techniques for writing an engaging lead:

• Anecdotal Lead: Share a relatable story to introduce the main subject.
• Descriptive Lead: Paint a vivid picture that immerses the reader in the scene.
• Question Lead: Pose a question that prompts curiosity.

For instance: “What would you do if you found a wallet full of cash on the street?” This question leads into a feature about a community’s moral compass, exploring themes of honesty and community values.

2. The Body

The body of the article dives into the details. It typically includes several key components:

• Subheadings: Use these to break down sections and guide the reader through different aspects of the narrative.
• Quotations: Incorporate quotes from interviews to add authenticity and various perspectives to your piece.
• Descriptive Writing: Engage the senses—describe sights, sounds, and feelings to create an immersive experience.

3. The Ending

A strong conclusion does not merely rehash the content. Instead, it often reflects on the broader implications of the story or leaves readers with something to ponder. You can tie back to the lead or pose another thought-provoking question.

Interviewing Techniques for Feature Articles

An integral aspect of writing a feature article is conducting effective interviews. Here are some essential techniques:

Preparation

• Research: Understand the topic and the interviewee beforehand. This preparation allows you to ask insightful questions and engage in meaningful conversation.
• Develop Open-Ended Questions: Craft questions that encourage expansive, descriptive answers rather than simple yes or no responses. For example, “Can you describe how you felt when you first joined the community?”

During the Interview

• Active Listening: Pay close attention to the interviewee’s responses, allowing for follow-up questions based on their answers.
• Create a Comfortable Environment: Establish rapport to help the interviewee feel at ease, which may lead to more candid and insightful responses.

After the Interview

• Transcribe and Analyze: Promptly transcribe your notes or recordings, and analyze the responses for themes and quotes that may be impactful in your article.

Mastering Descriptive Writing

Descriptive writing plays a crucial role in feature articles, as it enables readers to visualize and emotionally connect with the story. Here are some strategies to enhance your descriptive writing:

Use Sensory Details

Incorporate the five senses—sight, sound, touch, taste, and smell—into your writing. For instance:

“The aroma of freshly brewed coffee wafted through the air, mingling with the distant laughter of patrons, as the sunlight spilled through the café’s large windows.”

Vivid Verbs and Precise Adjectives

Avoid bland verbs and opt for vivid alternatives. Rather than saying “walked,” say “strolled,” “sauntered,” or “marched.” Additionally, choose precise adjectives that capture the essence of what you describe.

Show, Don’t Tell

Instead of stating facts directly, illustrate them through storytelling. For example, rather than saying, “She was angry,” describe her actions: “Her hands clenched into fists as she spoke through gritted teeth.”

Sample Feature Articles Relevant to Filipino Readers

• The Rise of Local Artisans in Philippine Markets: Focus on how local artisans are preserving traditional crafts amid globalization, showcasing interviews with artists and vivid descriptions of their workspaces.
• Life in the Barangay: Stories from the Community: A narrative exploring the intertwining lives of residents in a barangay, highlighting struggles and triumphs with rich descriptive details and direct quotes from community members.
• The Impact of Natural Disasters on Rural Education: Present personal stories of students affected by natural disasters, delving into their journeys through adversity while integrating statistics on educational interruptions.

Applying These Insights

As you embark on writing your feature articles, remember to structure your articles thoughtfully, conduct thorough interviews, and bring your narratives to life through descriptive language. Perhaps you may feel overwhelmed by the demands of writing, juggling deadlines, and striving for that perfect article.

That’s where Premium Researchers steps in to provide support. Our team comprises subject experts well-versed in journalistic writing techniques ready to assist you in crafting exceptional feature articles that resonate with your audience. If you’re facing challenges or require assistance, do not hesitate to get in touch.

Conclusion

Mastering the art of writing feature articles involves understanding the differences between various article types, adopting effective structures, employing sound interviewing techniques, and excelling in descriptive writing. As you embrace these principles, remember that extraordinary stories wait to be told. If you encounter obstacles on your path to becoming a proficient feature writer, Premium Researchers stands as a reliable partner in your academic journey.

Need help writing feature articles? Contact us via WhatsApp at Premium Researchers WhatsApp for professional writing services that will ensure your narratives shine.

FAQ

• What is the main difference between a news article and a feature article?
  News articles focus on facts and timely information, while feature articles provide in-depth storytelling and character exploration.
• How can I improve my interviewing skills for feature articles?
  Research your subject, prepare open-ended questions, and practice active listening during interviews.
• What are some common mistakes to avoid when writing feature articles?
  Avoid being overly verbose, ensure your lead is engaging, and always connect your conclusion back to the lead.