Writing careers can open pathways to many different styles and pieces, and learning about each is an essential step toward growing your skills, knowledge, and ultimately, your future. When working for clients, knowing what they are asking of you is imperative. You don’t want to meet the deadline only to submit a piece far from what the client hoped for.
Many new writers get confused about the differences between news articles and feature articles. On the surface, they have many similarities, which can make the waters murky when determining which is which. Diving into the facets of each is the first step toward learning to write each and provide content to happy clients. Read on to discover how to structure news and feature articles today.
What is the difference between a feature article and a news article?
The differences between feature and news articles are murky, and diving into them can provide clarity before you tackle your next piece. In the most basic terms, news articles report on an event or development by stating the facts. Feature articles explain why the event or development is significant while offering the writer’s analysis.
Here’s a more in-depth breakdown of the differences between these two types of articles.
Content
News articles stand out from feature articles for content because they provide the bare-bones facts, focusing on the who, what, where, why, how, and when.
Feature articles are often human interest stories focusing on a person, place, or event. The article will highlight a specific part of the story while taking the readers on a more in-depth journey. Many of these pieces feature a twist or a heartwarming conclusion.
Timing
Many news stories are time-sensitive. Some examples are the results of a sporting event, an election, a product launch, or a court verdict in a high-profile trial.
Feature articles are primarily evergreen and can be published at any time. Features often last longer and have more relevance due to the in-depth story.
Structure
News stories use an inverted pyramid format, focusing on the key facts early in the piece. The goal is to provide readers with the essential information in the first two sentences.
Features are flexible and can take on different formats depending on the subject matter. The format could be a sequence, a list, or a profile of a significant person.
Structuring a feature article
Choose an angle
The best feature articles have compelling angles that grab the reader’s attention. It’s best to look for an aspect of the story that others are missing. You can use it to start when learning how to structure a feature article.
Research
Thorough research is critical when writing a feature article. Dive into the subject matter and interview people tied to the article’s subject.
Humanize the piece
The best feature articles have a human element that makes them relatable. Share the stories of those involved in the event or development to capture the audience and help them connect.
Create a lead and narrative
The lead sets the tone for the rest of the article. Ensure you use a strong lead that carries readers into the rest of the narrative format. Use the middle section to explore the depth of the subject and the end to provide closure for the audience.
Structuring a news article
Find the story
The first step of structuring your news article involves finding a newsworthy story to report and share with readers. You want to give your readers a timely assessment of what has happened, and it’s best to focus on a story that is interesting or significant.
Focus on clarity
The best news stories are clear and easy to read. A focus on clarity can help you improve your writing when tackling news articles for a client. Use shorter paragraphs and sentences while sticking to the facts and maintaining a neutral tone. The most important and relevant information should come first in the article, followed by any relevant supporting details that add to the story.
Use quotes
Quotes are beneficial when structuring a news story because they add a human element to the piece and make it more relatable. You’ll want to get quotes from key people involved in the event or development. Ensure you’re thorough in attributing your quote to maintain integrity when writing from home.
Elevate your writing today
Learning to write different types of articles is a step toward growth and success when seeking new writing jobs and earning money from home. Use the information above to elevate your skills and further your career as a writer or journalist today.