Feature Stories
A feature story is a type of
news story that focuses on the human interest element and adds depth
and perspective to a regular news story by choosing a more narrative
approach. It is also used to highlight a specific issue, considered
of interest by the writer.
Despite its non-fiction style, feature
story has an informal air, but lately even newspapers choose to
formulate their news in a feature way so it becomes more attractive
to the public.
When considering writing a featured
story, preparing for it is very important. Before starting
typing, you should "test the waters".
Very useful is reading other
featured stories, especially in the area you want to write one.
Except from getting used to the
language and style, you can also notice a specific pattern in
featured stories that might help you later in organizing yours.
Gathering the information for
your story is the next step. It is crucial that you verify your
sources and the validity of the information. Try to refine all the
data so that is suits best for your purpose. Come up with anecdotes
and stories that attract the readers.
Anticipate the reaction of the
public. Your story has a purpose: to inform , to sensitize, to
call for an action. Analyze the reaction that other stories had on
people , read the comments and responses. Choose a form of story that
delivers the expected results. See what people want to read.
The actual development of the
featured story consists of structuring all the information in an
interesting, appealing piece of text.
Follow the classic pattern. Use an
introduction, the main body and the ending.
The introduction plays a crucial
role, because here the reader decides if he'll read the whole story
or stop there. A general idea about the story should be presented
here and curiosity should be built.
Start with an assumption or a general
theme that you back up later with opinions and arguments.
Make sure you begin in a powerful
manner and keep your readers interested.
Developing the story, make it as
catchy as possible, feature both real and fictional facts. Mix the
news with the human perspective and focus on the expected reaction.
Add illustrative stories and anecdotes
to give it a more informal and friendly feeling.
Ending is extremely important.
Make sure you make your point clear and give a powerful conclusion.
Depending on what your expectations are concerning your reader's
reaction, you can induce a certain feeling, call for compassion, for
action or help.
Write the ending so that the readers
feel embolden to make a change, to act.
After having written the feature
story, it's advisable to ask for an objective opinion.
Before publishing it, an outside view
can help you improve it so that it brings you the expected result.