How to Write Feature Writing

How to Write Feature Writing: Comprehensive Journalism Guide

Estimated reading time: 6 minutes

• Understanding feature writing (what it is and its essential elements)
• Techniques for crafting engaging feature articles
• Types of feature articles to explore
• Real-life examples from Philippine publications
• Where to get professional writing assistance

Table of contents

• What is Feature Writing?
• The Essential Elements of Feature Writing
• Techniques for Effective Feature Writing
• Types of Feature Articles
• Real-Life Examples from Philippine Publications
• Conclusion: Applying These Insights
• FAQ

What is Feature Writing?

Feature writing is a specialized form of journalism that goes beyond reporting the news. It encompasses storytelling that encourages reader engagement, often marrying factual reporting with creative narrative techniques. Unlike typical news articles, which focus on the who, what, where, when, and why, feature articles allow the writer to explore deeper insights into the subject, offering a rich context, background, and emotion.

The Essential Elements of Feature Writing

To produce a successful feature article, understanding its essential elements is crucial:

1. Narrative Lead: Feature articles often begin with a captivating lead that sets the tone for the piece, drawing the reader in.
2. Descriptive Language: Vivid imagery and descriptive language can bring your feature to life, immersing readers in the experience.
3. Research and Interviews: Adequate research and interviews form the backbone of a feature story. Voice and opinion contribute to storytelling and authenticity.
4. Structure: While features vary in structure, they typically include an introduction, body, and conclusion, with a clear progression of ideas.

Techniques for Effective Feature Writing

1. Identify Your Angle

Every feature article requires a unique angle. This is what makes your piece stand out. Ask yourself: What is the story behind the story? A compelling angle often lies in a fresh perspective or an untold aspect of your subject matter.

Example: In a feature article about a local artist, instead of only focusing on their recent exhibition, you might delve into their creative process, the challenges they faced, and their journey as an artist in today’s world.

2. Craft an Engaging Lead

Your lead should provide a hook that grabs the reader’s attention. This could be an intriguing fact, a touching anecdote, or a provocative question. The goal is to provoke curiosity, making the reader want to continue.

Example: “A young girl from a rural village picked up a paintbrush for the first time and transformed her dreams into vibrant colors on canvas, catching the eye of critics in metropolitan galleries.”

3. Embrace Descriptive Language

Utilizing vivid language and sensory details enriches your narrative and helps readers visualize the world you’re describing. This approach can transport readers into the experience, making the article relatable and engaging.

Using Sensory Detail: Instead of saying “the festival was lively,” you might say, “the vibrant sound of drums echoed through the streets, mingling with the sweet aroma of street food, creating an exhilarating atmosphere.”

4. Research and Interviewing

In feature writing, research provides the factual backbone of your narrative, while interviews bring a personal voice. Consider these steps:

• Conduct Thorough Research: Understand the subject matter and gather relevant data.
• Prepare Interview Questions: Develop thoughtful questions that provoke detailed responses, ensuring you get the insights necessary to enhance your article.
• Listen Actively: During interviews, active listening can lead to spontaneous revelations.

5. Structure Your Feature Article

A well-organized structure keeps your narrative flowing. Consider these structural techniques:

• Inverted Pyramid: Start with the most critical information, gradually providing deeper insights.
• Chronological Order: Outline events in the order they occurred to maintain clarity.
• Thematic Approach: Group related ideas and information to explore various facets of your topic.

6. Edit and Revise

The editing process is vital in feature writing. It involves revisiting your draft, ensuring clarity, conciseness, and correctness. Look for opportunities to strengthen language, enhance transitions, and eliminate jargon that may confuse readers.

Example: For clearer communication, phrases like “the majority of people enjoy attending live events” can be revised to “most people prefer live events.”

7. Types of Feature Articles

Feature writing encompasses various types of pieces. Recognizing these types can guide your approach:

• Human Interest: Focuses on people and their stories, often eliciting emotion.
• Trends: Discusses broader topics like social changes in communities or cultural movements.
• Profile: Offers in-depth portraits of notable individuals, detailing their backgrounds and achievements.
• Historical: Explores past events to understand their impact on the present.

Real-Life Examples from Philippine Publications

Philippine Daily Inquirer and ABS-CBN News frequently showcase nuanced feature stories, illustrating the depth and vibrancy of Philippine culture and society.

• A human interest piece on the effects of Typhoon Haiyan might weave personal narratives of families alongside statistical data, creating an urgent call to aid.
• A profile article on activists advocating for climate change can blend compelling interviews with contextual information about their initiatives.

Conclusion: Applying These Insights

With a solid understanding of feature writing techniques and approaches, you’re now equipped to tell compelling stories that captivate readers. Practice these elements, and don’t hesitate to critique your work critically.

Should you encounter challenges or require support in developing your writing, remember that guidance is available. Premium Researchers offers expert assistance and tailored services to help you refine your feature writing skills further.

FAQ

• What is feature writing? Feature writing is a form of journalism that allows for in-depth storytelling, emphasizing emotional engagement and narrative techniques.
• What are the key elements of a good feature article? Key elements include a narrative lead, descriptive language, careful research, and a clear structure.
• How can I improve my feature writing? To improve your feature writing, focus on crafting engaging leads, using vivid descriptions, and conducting thorough research and interviews.
• What types of feature articles are there? Common types include human interest stories, trend pieces, profiles, and historical explorations.
• Where can I get help with my feature writing? Consider contacting Premium Researchers for professional writing services and guidance.

References

• Purdue Online Writing Lab. Retrieved from Purdue OWL
• British Council. Retrieved from British Council
• ResearchGate. Retrieved from ResearchGate