Tips for Writing Feature Articles

What differentiates a feature article from any regular informative or news article is the novelty of style, delivery and wordplay that the author uses to create a light, informative read. Feature articles give writers more breathing space to express one's writing style and to tackle the topic in question in a more creative and less straightforward manner. Originality is vital to a successful feature article, which is something a writer builds through time and experience, but for starters, there are only a few fundamental steps to keep in mind, and you're on your way to becoming a good features writer.

1. Keep a brainstorming notebook handy

It's always handy to keep a pad of paper or a small notebook within convenient reach. Ideas don't just come whenever we want them to, and they often hit us at the most unexpected places and during the most unexpected times. If you've ever been hit with a brilliant idea while you're on the road or out on the hiking trail, you know what I mean. Besides, many potential ideas take time to nurse and develop so you can come up with a good article. It's a huge advantage to always have something to scribble those fleeting thoughts on whenever they come along, so you can go back and review them when it's time to wind down.

2. Do your research

The most important step to any successful article is, more often than not, the one that's most overlooked. Do your research! What decides an article's worth is its credibility, and only good, solid research can give you that. Whatever discussion you tackle must be backed by accurate facts and data that you can reliably source should your article come under fire.

3. Start with something light, like an anecdote or a descriptive passage