Format for writing news article

Here is a general format for writing a news article:

I. Headline

• A concise and attention-grabbing title that summarizes the main point of the article
• Typically 5-7 words long

II. Lead

• A brief summary of the article, usually 1-2 paragraphs long
• Provides background information and sets the tone for the rest of the article
• Includes the most important information, such as who, what, where, when, and why

III. Body

• The main content of the article, usually divided into sections or paragraphs
• Provides more detailed information and quotes from sources
• Typically includes:
  • A summary of the main points
  • Quotes from experts or individuals involved
  • Additional facts and statistics
  • Analysis and interpretation of the information

IV. Quotes

• Direct quotes from sources, usually 1-2 sentences long
• Provides additional insight and perspective on the topic
• Typically includes:
  • A quote from an expert or individual involved
  • A brief description of the source and their qualifications

V. Additional Information

• Additional facts and statistics that support the main points
• Typically includes:
  • Data and statistics
  • Research findings
  • Expert opinions

VI. Conclusion

• A summary of the main points and the significance of the story
• Typically includes:
  • A restatement of the main points
  • A call to action or recommendation
  • A final thought or reflection

VII. Boilerplate

• A brief summary of the organization or individual being reported on
• Typically includes:
  • A description of the organization or individual
  • Their mission or purpose
  • Contact information

VIII. Photo or Graphics

• A visual element that accompanies the article
• Typically includes:
  • A photo or graphic that illustrates the story
  • A caption that provides additional context

IX. Additional Resources

• Additional resources or links that provide further information
• Typically includes:
  • Links to related articles or websites
  • Contact information for additional resources

Here is an example of what a news article might look like using this format:

Headline: Local Business Owner Wins Award for Community Service

Lead: John Smith, owner of Smith's Hardware, has been awarded the Community Service Award for his dedication to volunteering in the local community.

Body:

John Smith has been a fixture in the local community for over 20 years, and his dedication to volunteering has earned him the Community Service Award. Smith has volunteered at the local food bank, helped organize community events, and even started a program to provide free tools to low-income families.

"I'm just happy to be able to give back to the community that has given me so much," Smith said in an interview. "I believe that everyone should have access to the resources they need to succeed."

Quotes:

"I'm thrilled to see John recognized for his hard work and dedication," said Jane Doe, executive director of the local food bank. "He's been a huge help to us over the years, and we're grateful for his support."

Additional Information:

According to the United Way, Smith's Hardware has donated over $10,000 to local charities in the past year alone.

Conclusion:

John Smith's dedication to community service is an inspiration to us all. His award is a well-deserved recognition of his hard work and commitment to making a difference in the lives of others.

Boilerplate:

Smith's Hardware is a family-owned business that has been serving the local community for over 30 years. For more information, contact John Smith at [email protected] or visit their website at smithshardware.com.

Photo or Graphics:

A photo of John Smith accepting the Community Service Award is available upon request.

Additional Resources:

For more information on the Community Service Award, visit the website of the local chamber of commerce. To learn more about Smith's Hardware and their community programs, visit their website or contact John Smith directly.