How to Write a Feature Article: A Step-by-Step Guide - AAFT (2024)

September 25, 2023 Mass Communication

Feature stories are one of the most crucial forms of writing these days, we can find feature articles and examples in many news websites, blog websites, etc. While writing a feature article a lot of things should be kept in mind as well.

Feature stories are a powerful form of journalism, allowing writers to delve deeper into subjects and explore the human element behind the headlines. Whether you’re a budding journalist or an aspiring storyteller, mastering the art of feature story writing is essential for engaging your readers and conveying meaningful narratives. In this blog, you’ll find the process of writing a feature article, feature article writing tips, feature article elements, etc.

The process of writing a compelling feature story, offering valuable tips, real-world examples, and a solid structure to help you craft stories that captivate and resonate with your audience.

Read Also: Top 5 Strategies for Long-Term Success in Journalism Careers

Table of Contents

Understanding the Essence of a Feature Story

Before we dive into the practical aspects, let’s clarify what a feature story is and what sets it apart from news reporting. While news articles focus on delivering facts and information concisely, feature stories are all about storytelling. They go beyond the “who, what, when, where, and why” to explore the “how” and “why” in depth. Feature stories aim to engage readers emotionally, making them care about the subject, and often, they offer a unique perspective or angle on a topic.

Tips and tricks for writing a Feature article

In the beginning, many people can find difficulty in writing a feature, but here we have especially discussed some special tips and tricks for writing a feature article. So here are some Feature article writing tips and tricks: –

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1. Choose an Interesting Angle:

The first step in feature story writing is selecting a unique and compelling angle or theme for your story. Look for an aspect of the topic that hasn’t been explored widely, or find a fresh perspective that can pique readers’ curiosity.

2. Conduct Thorough Research:

Solid research is the foundation of any feature story. Dive deep into your subject matter, interview relevant sources, and gather as much information as possible. Understand your subject inside out to present a comprehensive and accurate portrayal.

3. Humanize Your Story:

Feature stories often revolve around people, their experiences, and their emotions. Humanize your narrative by introducing relatable characters and sharing their stories, struggles, and triumphs.

4. Create a Strong Lead:

Your opening paragraph, or lead, should be attention-grabbing and set the tone for the entire story. Engage your readers from the start with an anecdote, a thought-provoking question, or a vivid description.

5. Structure Your Story:

Feature stories typically follow a narrative structure with a beginning, middle, and end. The beginning introduces the topic and engages the reader, the middle explores the depth of the subject, and the end provides closure or leaves readers with something to ponder.

6. Use Descriptive Language:

Paint a vivid picture with your words. Utilize descriptive language and sensory details to transport your readers into the world you’re depicting.

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7. Incorporate Quotes and Anecdotes:

Quotes from interviews and anecdotes from your research can breathe life into your story. They add authenticity and provide insights from real people.

8. Engage Emotionally:

Feature stories should evoke emotions. Whether it’s empathy, curiosity, joy, or sadness, aim to connect with your readers on a personal level.

Read Also: The Ever-Evolving World Of Journalism: Unveiling Truths and Shaping Perspectives

Examples of Feature Stories

Here we are describing some of the feature articles examples which are as follows:-

“Finding Beauty Amidst Chaos: The Life of a Street Artist”

This feature story delves into the world of a street artist who uses urban decay as his canvas, turning neglected spaces into works of art. It explores his journey, motivations, and the impact of his art on the community.

“The Healing Power of Music: A Veteran’s Journey to Recovery”

This story follows a military veteran battling post-traumatic stress disorder and how his passion for music became a lifeline for healing. It intertwines personal anecdotes, interviews, and the therapeutic role of music.

“Wildlife Conservation Heroes: Rescuing Endangered Species, One Baby Animal at a Time”

In this feature story, readers are introduced to a group of dedicated individuals working tirelessly to rescue and rehabilitate endangered baby animals. It showcases their passion, challenges, and heartwarming success stories.

What should be the feature a Feature article structure?

Read Also: What is The Difference Between A Journalist and A Reporter?

Structure of a Feature Story

A well-structured feature story typically follows this format:

Headline: A catchy and concise title that captures the essence of the story. This is always written at the top of the story.

Lead: A captivating opening paragraph that hooks the reader. The first 3 sentences of any story that explains 5sW & 1H are known as lead.

Introduction: Provides context and introduces the subject. Lead is also a part of the introduction itself.

Body: The main narrative section that explores the topic in depth, including interviews, anecdotes, and background information.

Conclusion: Wraps up the story, offers insights, or leaves the reader with something to ponder.

Additional Information: This may include additional resources, author information, or references.

Conclusion

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Writing a feature article is a blend of journalistic skills and storytelling artistry. By choosing a compelling angle, conducting thorough research, and structuring your story effectively, you can create feature stories that captivate and resonate with your readers. AAFT also provides many courses related to journalism and mass communication which grooms a person to write new articles, and news and learn new skills as well.

Remember that practice is key to honing your feature story writing skills, so don’t be discouraged if it takes time to perfect your craft. With dedication and creativity, you’ll be able to craft feature stories that leave a lasting impact on your audience.

FAQ

What are the characteristics of a good feature article?

A good feature article is well-written, engaging, and informative. It should tell a story that is interesting to the reader and that sheds light on an important issue.

Why is it important to write feature articles?

Feature articles can inform and entertain readers. They can also help to shed light on important issues and to promote understanding and empathy.

What are the challenges of writing a feature article?

The challenges of writing a feature article can vary depending on the topic and the audience. However, some common challenges include finding a good angle for the story, gathering accurate information, and writing in a clear and concise style.

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Aaditya Kanchan is a skilled Content Writer and Digital Marketer with experience of 5+ years and a focus on diverse subjects and content like Journalism, Digital Marketing, Law and sports etc. He also has a special interest in photography, videography, and retention marketing. Aaditya writes in simple language where complex information can be delivered to the audience in a creative way.

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  • How to Write a Feature Article
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How to Write a Feature Article: A Step-by-Step Guide - AAFT (2024)

FAQs

What is the layout of a feature article? ›

Like any form of writing a feature article follows a standard structure. While it may vary depending on your topic, a feature article should always include a headline, introduction, the main body and a concluding paragraph. Highlights the main idea of the article. Includes keywords (for online articles).

What are the 5 parts of a feature article? ›

  • Step 1: Research and Planning. Remember, feature articles are still based on factual information. ...
  • Step 2: Header / Title. Feature articles are known for their eye-catching headers! ...
  • Step 3: Introduction. Like your title, your introduction also needs to 'hook' in the readers. ...
  • Step 4: Body. ...
  • Step 5: Conclusion.

What is an example of a features article? ›

Examples of feature stories include news features, in-depth profiles, human interest stories, science communication, data storytelling, and more.

What is feature writing format? ›

A feature story is defined by how it is written rather than the topic of the story. Feature stories use the circular narrative style to discuss each individual event and end by connecting the last event to the beginning. Feature stories do not use the traditional five-paragraph format, and the length may vary.

What not to do when writing a feature article? ›

Don't Be Biased

Never insert your opinion into a news or regular feature article. You can claim or quote another person's opinion, but the audience doesn't need or want a journalist's take on the matter—unless it's specifically an op-ed or reported essay.

How many paragraphs are in a feature article? ›

A 'feature' doesn't have a set number of paragraphs, and the length of each isn't fixed either. That's because the professional rule of thumb is 20–25 words a sentence, and 2–4 sentences per paragraph. That means the paragraph length is anywhere from 40 words to 100 words.

What is the rule for feature writing? ›

To write a feature article, you have to remember it should be original, inquisitive, vociferous, unconventional, and witty. Even a piece of dull news can be made into a thought-provoking and matter of interest. A feature writer adds depth, wisdom, and color to the story and may entertain or instruct.

How to write articles for beginners? ›

How to write articles
  1. Select a topic to write about.
  2. Identify your target audience.
  3. Research facts that reinforce your story.
  4. Come up with an outline of your article.
  5. Write a rough draft and pare down your outline.
  6. Specify your subject matter.
  7. Read aloud until your draft is error-free.

What are the 5 parts of an article? ›

The key to elevating your work lies in understanding the major elements of an article – title, introduction, main body, conclusion, and references. Understand their function, their relationship to each other, and how to maximize them.

How do I begin an article? ›

How To Write a Powerful Introduction Paragraph
  1. Include a Hook. Don't repeat the article title in the sentence! ...
  2. Keep It Short. ...
  3. Explain the Article's Purpose. ...
  4. Explain the Article's Value. ...
  5. Refer to a Concern Your Reader Might Face. ...
  6. Use Storytelling—the Smart Way. ...
  7. Analyze Search Intent.
Mar 19, 2023

How do I start a feature article? ›

Your first paragraph is your chance to hook your reader and draw them into your story. If the opening paragraph is dry or difficult to follow, you will lose your reader and they won't continue on to the rest of your story. Start with an interesting fact, a quote, or an anecdote for a good hook.

How long is a feature article? ›

A feature's length can range from 1,000 to 4,000 words, depending on the publication and its readership. Regional newspaper and magazine features tend to be on the shorter side, whereas nationals and online publications can accommodate longer pieces.

What is the most important part of a feature article? ›

The lead is the first sentence of the story, and it's arguably the most important part. A good lead pulls the reader in, and makes him/her want to read more. A good lead often includes a fresh angle: a way to focus your feature.

How do you describe the layout of an article? ›

The structure of an article for a newspaper, magazine or website, is usually in three parts:
  1. introduction – engaging the reader, or outlining the main point of the article to follow.
  2. middle – making clear and interesting points about the topic.
  3. end – a concluding paragraph that draws the points together.

How are feature articles organized? ›

The formula consists of beginning the story with feature-style leads to grab the reader's attention, followed by the nut graph (Scanlan, 2003). After this comes a longer body of the story that provides the usual background, facts, quotes, and so on.

What is the feature of page layout? ›

The Page Layout Tab holds all the options that allow you to arrange your document pages just the way you want them. You can set margins, apply themes, control of page orientation and size, add sections and line breaks, display line numbers, and set paragraph indentation and lines.

What is a format of an article? ›

An effective article is structured into three parts: the introduction, the body, and conclusion. The introduction hooks the reader with a strong quote or anecdote. The body develops the subject. The conclusion leaves the reader with a question.

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