A featured story goes beyond the hard news, revealing complexities, questioning assumptions, and giving readers a deeper understanding of the subject. It requires in-depth research, sharp reporting, and the ability to find the human angle. It’s also about writing with a sense of drama. Feature articles often begin with an anecdote or scene setting and use sensory details to transport the reader into the world of the story. They can include quotes from experts, witnesses, or people who have a personal connection to the topic.
Unlike hard news, a strong feature article must engage readers from the beginning and keep them hooked throughout the piece. It starts with an attention-grabbing headline and a powerful opening paragraph that captures the essence of the topic. The body of the story then dives into the subject with interviews, anecdotes, and background information. It ends with a conclusion that either wraps up the story, offers insights, or leaves readers with something to ponder.
While a feature can take many forms, some common examples are profile or personality features, historical features, and seasonal or holiday features. It may also be a sidebar, explanatory, or how-to feature. Unlike news stories, which focus on facts and a neutral point of view, a feature can have a more subjective tone, but it must still be factual and objective.
When writing a feature, remember to “show, don’t tell.” Instead of saying that Johnny was tired after running up the hill, say, “His legs were aching and his cheeks were red from exertion.” This technique makes your article more interesting to read and helps readers connect with your story.