When tackling writing jobs in Australia, you might be asked to produce a feature article.
If you’re new to content writing, this might seem like a daunting task. Often longer in length than most blogs and web copy, structure becomes an important element when it comes to working out how to write a feature article format piece.
In this in-depth guide, we’ll explore the structure of a basic feature article, giving you a dependable framework to start with. We’ll also cover some key tips that will set you up for success when creating features, and explain how you can gain some real-world experience writing. Read on to update your understanding of writing feature articles.
What is the basic structure of a feature article?
While it can vary between briefs, the standard structure of a feature article starts with a title, sometimes referred to as a header. The title is designed to grab attention of potential readers and give them a clear idea of what the article is about.
After the header comes the introduction, which can involve one or more paragraphs depending on the length of the feature. It must also hook the audience and give them a deeper understanding of the topic, without giving everything away. For instance, if a title asks a question, you should never answer it fully, or a reader seeking answers will never finish your article.
The body copy follows and forms the “meat” of the feature. Consider all the points you want to make in the main body of your article, and arrange them in a logical sequence. Now, you can break the body down into sections and give them subheadings. This makes it easier for readers to digest and refer to briefly if they wish to find specific information.
The last section of a feature article is known as the summary or conclusion. Here, you can sum up the key point of your article or give a definitive answer to a title with a question based on the proof you have provided.
You may also be requested to add a call to action in these final paragraphs of a feature article, or include a link to further reading resources, which may prove useful to the reader.
What are the 5 basic tips in writing a feature article?
As you develop and gain experience as a feature writer, you will pick up a wide range of techniques that help you create quality articles. However, for beginners, there are some basic tips that are always worth considering.
Research
Whether you receive a subject for your feature or come up with it yourself, always research it thoroughly before you begin writing. Choose legitimate and reliable sources and read up on your topic until you understand the key areas involved, so you can write comfortably and confidently.
Double check any facts you supply, and make sure that they are accurate and up to date.
Understand your audience
Ask who your target readership is before you compose your feature. Choose a tone of voice they will listen to and language that is accessible. Consider what information they might seek and what questions they may wish to be answered.
Planning
You can use the details you determine about your readership to form your title and subheadings to attract interest and engagement. Map out your article from start to finish and ensure it reads coherently.
Stay factual
While features aren’t news articles, they are still fact-based content.
Avoid overusing adverbs and adjectives. Instead, relay on nouns and strong verbs in descriptions. Write in the active rather than passive voice, and include facts, statistics and accurate quotes to create authenticity.
Be original
With the internet awash with a multitude of articles on every given subject, it might seem difficult to create a unique feature. However, if you have a comprehensive understanding of your topic, you can write about in your own words and find an original angle that attracts attention.
Read what is written about your subject and consider what is missing. Work out what information you can supply that can’t be found elsewhere, and include it or delve deeper into areas that remain uncovered by other writers.
For further tips on content writing, you can also explore our blog on how to engage your readers with great content.
Write feature articles and earn money from home
If you want to show what you have learned about writing feature articles, we can give you a chance to shine. Apply to write professionally for Words of Worth Australia today and discover a wide range of briefs.