How to write a news feature article

Writing a news feature article requires a combination of research, writing skills, and attention to detail. Here are some steps to help you write a compelling news feature article:

1. Choose a topic: Select a topic that is relevant, timely, and of interest to your audience. Make sure it's not too broad or too narrow, and that you can find enough information to write a comprehensive article.
2. Research the topic: Gather information from various sources, including news articles, academic studies, government reports, and interviews with experts and individuals affected by the issue. Take notes and organize the information you collect.
3. Define the angle: Determine the angle or perspective you want to take on the topic. This will help you focus your research and writing. For example, you might explore the human impact of a natural disaster, the economic implications of a new policy, or the scientific breakthroughs in a particular field.
4. Write a strong lead: Your lead should grab the reader's attention and provide a clear sense of what the article is about. Use a hook, such as a surprising statistic, a thought-provoking quote, or a vivid description, to draw the reader in.
5. Write the body of the article: Use your research to write a clear and concise article that provides depth and context to the topic. Break up the text with subheadings, bullet points, and short paragraphs to make it easy to read.
6. Use quotes and anecdotes: Incorporate quotes from experts, individuals affected by the issue, and other relevant sources to add depth and perspective to the article. Use anecdotes and examples to illustrate key points and make the article more engaging.
7. Include relevant statistics and data: Use statistics and data to support your arguments and provide context to the topic. Make sure to cite your sources and provide a clear explanation of what the data means.
8. Write a strong conclusion: Summarize the main points of the article and reiterate the significance of the topic. Provide a call to action or a thought-provoking question to leave the reader with something to think about.
9. Edit and proofread: Review your article carefully for accuracy, clarity, and grammar. Make sure to fact-check and verify any information you include.
10. Follow AP style: If you're writing for a news organization that follows the Associated Press (AP) style, make sure to follow their guidelines for writing, formatting, and style.

Additional tips:

• Be objective: Aim for a balanced and objective tone in your article. Avoid sensationalism and bias.
• Use clear and concise language: Avoid using jargon or technical terms that might confuse your readers.
• Use active voice: Write in the active voice, as it is generally more engaging and easier to read than the passive voice.
• Use transitions: Use transitional phrases and sentences to connect your ideas and make the article flow smoothly.
• Include multimedia elements: Consider including multimedia elements, such as photos, videos, or infographics, to enhance the article and make it more engaging.

Here's an example of a news feature article:

Title: "The Devastating Impact of Climate Change on Small-Town America"

Lead: "As the world grapples with the devastating effects of climate change, small towns across America are bearing the brunt of the crisis. From rising sea levels to intense storms, the consequences of global warming are being felt in communities that are often the most vulnerable."

Body: "In the small town of Ocean City, Maryland, residents are struggling to recover from the devastating effects of Hurricane Florence. The storm surge flooded homes and businesses, leaving many without power or access to basic necessities. 'It was like nothing I've ever seen before,' said local resident Jane Smith. 'The water was chest-deep in some areas, and it took weeks to clean up the mess.'"

Quotes and anecdotes: "The town's mayor, John Doe, said that the storm was a wake-up call for the community. 'We knew we were at risk, but we didn't realize how bad it would be,' he said. 'Now we're working to build a more resilient community, with flood-resistant buildings and emergency preparedness plans.'"

Statistics and data: "According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), the frequency and intensity of extreme weather events are expected to increase in the coming years. In fact, a recent study found that the cost of natural disasters in the United States has increased by 50% over the past decade."

Conclusion: "As the world continues to grapple with the consequences of climate change, it's clear that small towns like Ocean City are on the front lines of the crisis. By working together to build more resilient communities and reduce our carbon footprint, we can mitigate the effects of global warming and create a more sustainable future for all."