OpenCourser brand icon
Sign in
We may earn an affiliate commission when you visit our partners.
Course image
Course image
edX logo

Writing Feature Articles

Dr. Ronald Irwin

This course focuses on the craft of writing feature articles. The first part of the course examines the essential content elements that a feature article should contain such as facts, anecdotes, and interview quotes and how to structure and articulate this content using a form of language that stimulates an experience for your reader. The second part of the course turns to the process of preparing your work for editing and the final step of publication.

Read more

This course focuses on the craft of writing feature articles. The first part of the course examines the essential content elements that a feature article should contain such as facts, anecdotes, and interview quotes and how to structure and articulate this content using a form of language that stimulates an experience for your reader. The second part of the course turns to the process of preparing your work for editing and the final step of publication.

What you'll learn

  • Skills to construct a feature article using facts and figures, anecdotes, atmosphere, characters, and storytelling.

  • An understanding of how to use the classic three-paragraph lead in.

  • The ability to analyze the different facets of editing.

Enroll now

Traffic lights

Read about what's good
what should give you pause
and possible dealbreakers
Builds an understanding of the structure and preparation of feature articles through the use of facts, figures, anecdotes, atmosphere, character, and storytelling
Helps learners use the article writing format that is the current industry standard
Develops awareness and knowledge of the editing and publication process in the feature article writing industry

Save this course

Create your own learning path. Save this course to your list so you can find it easily later.
Save

Reviews summary

Practical feature article writing foundation

According to learners, this course offers a highly practical and actionable approach to writing feature articles, proving exceptionally clear and comprehensive for foundational skills. Students praise its focus on structuring content, using compelling lead-ins, and techniques to stimulate reader experience through storytelling. It's particularly valued by aspiring writers and freelancers seeking to professionalize their craft, providing actionable strategies for publication readiness. However, some experienced writers noted that certain modules felt too introductory or repetitive, particularly wishing for more advanced editing techniques and greater depth beyond the basics, suggesting it's best for beginners to intermediate learners.
Emphasizes engaging language and stimulating reader experience.
"Learning how to weave storytelling into non-fiction was a game-changer."
"I appreciated the focus on real-world examples and how to make content stimulating for readers."
"The emphasis on language and stimulating experiences for the reader was a strong point."
Tailored perfectly for those new to feature article writing.
"I found it provided a strong foundation, especially for beginners."
"I think it's excellent for absolute beginners."
"As an aspiring journalist, this course was exactly what I needed."
Delivers a solid and clear introduction to feature article writing basics.
"A solid introduction to feature article writing."
"Excellent course that provides a solid foundation."
"It felt very comprehensive for a foundational course, covering everything from initial ideation to publication readiness."
Provides highly practical and applicable skills for real-world writing.
"This course was incredibly practical and directly applicable to my freelance writing career."
"It broke down complex writing concepts into manageable parts and gave me actionable strategies."
"I learned how to professionalize my article writing and improve my pitch success."
The module on editing could benefit from more detailed coverage.
"I found the editing section a bit brief, wishing for more in-depth coverage of various editing stages and tools."
"The editing segment could be expanded upon; it seemed to gloss over some important details."
"I think it needs more advanced editing techniques and tools."
May lack advanced techniques for experienced writers.
"Some parts felt a little basic for someone with prior writing experience."
"I was hoping for more advanced techniques or real-world case studies beyond just basic examples."
"It's definitely for beginners. I needed more depth on pitching and market analysis."

Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in Writing Feature Articles with these activities:
Review previous articles
Review previously written feature articles to solidify mechanics and structure of your writing.
Show steps
  • Assemble a collection of articles in a domain you're familiar with
  • Pay attention to structure and pacing
  • Extract examples of language that stimulates an experience
  • Analyze how the writer uses facts, anecdotes, and quotes
Read On Writing Well by William Zinsser
This book provides a great foundation to strengthen your writing abilities and techniques.
View Extraordinary Lives on Amazon
Show steps
  • Purchase or borrow a copy of the book.
  • Create a schedule to read for the next 2 weeks.
  • Take notes as you read.
  • Highlight areas that resonate or interest you for future reference.
Write a feature article abstract
An abstract is necessary before writing a feature article. This is also good practice for your writing mechanics.
Show steps
  • Identify a topic for your feature article.
  • Write a brief summary of your article.
  • Include the main points of your article.
  • Write a strong lead for your abstract.
Four other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all seven activities
Follow online tutorial on strong leads
Following tutorials can offer you the opportunity to hone the mechanics of writing strong leads.
Show steps
  • Find a tutorial on writing strong leads for feature articles.
  • Outline the steps for writing a strong lead.
  • Write a strong lead for a feature article.
  • Get feedback on your lead from a peer or instructor.
  • Revise your lead based on feedback.
Start a blog or website
Build up a portfolio of your practice articles.
Show steps
  • Choose a topic for your blog or website.
  • Create a content calendar.
  • Write and publish your first article.
  • Promote your blog or website.
Develop style guide
Having a style guide will provide consistency in your articles.
Show steps
  • Write down the rules for your style guide.
  • Include information on grammar, punctuation, and style.
  • Make your style guide available to others.
  • Update your style guide as needed.
Peer critique
Peer-critique is imperative in any writing profession. Get direct feedback on your work in progress.
Show steps
  • Write a draft of a feature article.
  • Exchange drafts with a peer.
  • Provide feedback on your peer's draft.
  • Revise your draft based on feedback.

Career center

Learners who complete Writing Feature Articles will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:
Editor
Editors review, edit, and revise written content for clarity, accuracy, and consistency. They work with authors, writers, and other content creators to ensure that written content meets the highest standards of quality.
See salaries and explore the career path for Editor
Publisher
Publishers oversee the development, production, and distribution of books, magazines, newspapers, and other written content. They work with authors, editors, and other publishing professionals to bring written content to the public.
See salaries and explore the career path for Publisher
Scriptwriter
Scriptwriters write scripts for movies, television shows, and other forms of visual media. They develop characters, plot lines, and dialogue, and work with directors and producers to bring their scripts to life.
See salaries and explore the career path for Scriptwriter
Media Specialist
Media Specialists plan and execute media campaigns, manage relationships with the media, and monitor media coverage. They often have a strong understanding of the media landscape and how to get their clients' messages heard.
See salaries and explore the career path for Media Specialist
Journalist
Journalists research, write, and report on current events and other topics of interest to the public. They interview sources, conduct research, and write articles, news stories, and other content for newspapers, magazines, websites, and other media outlets. This course in Writing Feature Articles can help build a foundation in journalistic writing by providing instruction on a range of subjects such as analyzing different facets of editing, in addition to skills to construct a feature article using facts and figures, anecdotes, atmosphere, characters, and storytelling.
See salaries and explore the career path for Journalist
Reporter
Reporters research, write, and report on current events and other topics of interest to the public. They interview sources, conduct research, and write articles, news stories, and other content for newspapers, magazines, websites, and other media outlets. This course in Writing Feature Articles can help build a foundation in reporting by providing instruction on a range of subjects such as analyzing different facets of editing, in addition to skills to construct a feature article using facts and figures, anecdotes, atmosphere, characters, and storytelling.
See salaries and explore the career path for Reporter
Author
Authors craft and write stories, articles, and other written content. This work often requires strong research, writing, editing, and communication skills. This course in Writing Feature Articles can help build a foundation in writing by providing instruction on a range of subjects such as analyzing different facets of editing, in addition to skills to construct a feature article using facts and figures, anecdotes, atmosphere, characters, and storytelling.
See salaries and explore the career path for Author
Web Content Writer
Web Content Writers create written content for websites, including articles, blog posts, and landing pages. They often use search engine optimization (SEO) techniques to help their content rank higher in search results. This course in Writing Feature Articles can help build a foundation in web content writing by providing instruction on analyzing different facets of editing, in addition to a range of subjects such as skills to construct a feature article using facts and figures, anecdotes, atmosphere, characters, and storytelling.
See salaries and explore the career path for Web Content Writer
Content Creator
Content Creators are responsible for developing and delivering engaging content across various platforms, including websites, social media, and blogs. They often collaborate with others to create and produce digital content that is visually appealing and informative. This course in Writing Feature Articles can help build a foundation in developing engaging content by providing instruction on analyzing different facets of editing, in addition to a range of subjects such as skills to construct a feature article using facts and figures, anecdotes, atmosphere, characters, and storytelling.
See salaries and explore the career path for Content Creator
Copywriter
Copywriters create compelling and persuasive written content for marketing and advertising purposes. They help businesses communicate their brand message and sell their products or services. This course in Writing Feature Articles can help build a foundation in copywriting by providing instruction on analyzing different facets of editing, in addition to a range of subjects such as skills to construct a feature article using facts and figures, anecdotes, atmosphere, characters, and storytelling.
See salaries and explore the career path for Copywriter
Speechwriter
Speechwriters write speeches for public figures, such as politicians, business leaders, and celebrities. They research their clients' interests and goals, and craft speeches that are persuasive, informative, and engaging. This course in Writing Feature Articles can help build a foundation in speechwriting by providing instruction on a range of subjects such as analyzing different facets of editing, in addition to skills to construct a feature article using facts and figures, anecdotes, atmosphere, characters, and storytelling.
See salaries and explore the career path for Speechwriter
Magazine Writer
Magazine Writers write articles, features, and other content for magazines. They often specialize in a particular topic or area of interest. This course in Writing Feature Articles may be useful in helping build a foundation in magazine writing by providing instruction on a range of subjects such as analyzing different facets of editing, in addition to skills to construct a feature article using facts and figures, anecdotes, atmosphere, characters, and storytelling.
See salaries and explore the career path for Magazine Writer
Technical Writer
Technical Writers create instruction manuals, technical reports, and other written materials that explain complex technical information. They often work in fields such as engineering, software development, and manufacturing. This course in Writing Feature Articles can help build a foundation in technical writing by providing instruction on analyzing different facets of editing, in addition to a range of subjects such as skills to construct a feature article using facts and figures, anecdotes, atmosphere, characters, and storytelling.
See salaries and explore the career path for Technical Writer
Public Relations Specialist
Public Relations Specialists manage the public image of organizations and individuals. They develop and implement public relations campaigns, write press releases, and respond to media inquiries. This course in Writing Feature Articles can help build a foundation in public relations by providing instruction on a range of subjects such as analyzing different facets of editing, in addition to skills to construct a feature article using facts and figures, anecdotes, atmosphere, characters, and storytelling.
See salaries and explore the career path for Public Relations Specialist

Reading list

We've selected ten books that we think will supplement your learning. Use these to develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a deeper understanding of the topics covered in Writing Feature Articles.
Cover image
Extraordinary Lives
Save
This classic guide to feature writing provides timeless advice on how to write engaging and informative stories. Zinsser covers everything from the basics of reporting to the more advanced techniques of storytelling.
Extraordinary Lives
Paperback
Check
Extraordinary Lives
Kindle Edition
Check
Cover image
CMOS Simplified
Save
This comprehensive guide to style and usage is widely used by scholars, publishers, and other professionals. The Chicago Manual of Style covers everything from grammar and punctuation to the proper way to cite sources.
CMOS Simplified
Paperback
Check
CMOS Simplified
Kindle Edition
Check
Cover image
The Copyeditor's Handbook
Save
This essential reference tool for journalists provides authoritative guidance on grammar, style, and usage. The AP Stylebook is widely used by newspapers, magazines, and other media outlets.
The Copyeditor's Handbook
Paperback
Check
The Copyeditor's Handbook
Kindle Edition
Check
Cover image
Write Tight
Save
This comprehensive guide to writing magazine features provides practical advice on everything from pitching your story to writing a strong lead and ending. Brohaugh also includes helpful tips on how to get your work published.
Write Tight: Say Exactly What You Mean with...
Paperback
$$
Write Tight: How to Keep Your Prose Sharp, Focused...
Hardcover
$$
Write Tight: Say Exactly What You Mean with...
Kindle Edition
$
Cover image
Somehow
Save
This bestselling guide to writing provides practical advice on everything from overcoming writer's block to finding your voice as a writer. Lamott's warm and encouraging style makes this book a must-read for any aspiring writer.
Somehow
Paperback
Check
Somehow
Kindle Edition
Check
Cover image
Fishing the Great Lakes of the South
Save
This comprehensive guide to feature writing covers all aspects of the craft, from developing story ideas to writing effective leads and endings. Bass also provides helpful tips on how to market your work.
Fishing the Great Lakes of the South
Paperback
Check
Fishing the Great Lakes of the South
Kindle Edition
Check
Cover image
Strategic Writing
Save
This witty and informative guide to writing provides practical advice on everything from grammar to style. Marsh's unique perspective makes this book a must-read for any aspiring writer who wants to learn how to write with clarity, precision, and flair.
Strategic Writing
Paperback
Check
Strategic Writing
Kindle Edition
Check
Cover image
The Elements of Style
Save
This classic guide to style provides timeless advice on how to write clear, concise, and effective prose. Strunk and White's rules of grammar and style are essential reading for any aspiring writer.
The Elements of Style, Fourth Edition
Paperback
$
The Elements of Style, Fourth Edition
Kindle Edition
$
The Elements of Style [Illustrated]
Paperback
$$
The Elements of Style: Fourth Edition
Paperback
$
Cover image
The Elements of Journalism, Revised and Updated 4th...
Save
This essential guide to journalism provides a comprehensive overview of the principles and practices of the profession. Kovach and Rosenstiel cover everything from the basics of reporting to the more advanced techniques of storytelling.
The Elements of Journalism, Revised and Updated 4th...
Paperback
$$
The Elements of Journalism, Revised and Updated 4th...
Kindle Edition
$$
Cover image
The Copyeditor's Handbook
Save
This comprehensive guide to copyediting provides step-by-step instructions on how to edit a manuscript for grammar, style, and accuracy. Einsohn also includes helpful tips on how to work with authors and publishers.
The Copyeditor's Handbook and Workbook: The...
Paperback
$$

Share

Help others find this course page by sharing it with your friends and followers:
Facebook
LinkedIn
Reddit
X
Link
Email

Similar courses

Here are nine courses similar to Writing Feature Articles.
Language Arts Confidence with Storybird
Most relevant
Nursing Informatics Leaders
Most relevant
Design Thinking for the Greater Good: Innovation in the...
Most relevant
Ready to Roll – The Video Production Process
Most relevant
Speaking to a Technical Group
Most relevant
How to design Facebook/IG Stories using Canva
Most relevant
Street Photography: Foundations & Creative Mindsets
Most relevant
Data Collection: Online, Telephone and Face-to-face
Most relevant
Digital Case Method
Most relevant

edX Buyer Protection & Guarantee

Verified partner policies & purchase protections

World-Class University Partner
Free Trial & Audit

Free Audit Track Available

Free audit track available for most courses, giving open access to video lectures, course readings, and assignments at no charge.

Return & Refund Policy

14-Day Full Refund Window

14-day full refund available up to 14 days after course start or 14 days after payment (whichever comes second, up to 6 months max), provided verified certificate has not yet been earned.

Buyer Protections

Verified Academic & Industry Partner

University-backed credentials authored by elite institutions like Harvard, MIT, and Oxford, with tamper-proof certificate verification.

Key Purchase Protections
Free audit track for open learning access
14-day money-back guarantee on verified certificates
Prestigious university credentials (Harvard, MIT)
Automatic unenrollment refund process via dashboard
OpenCourser Verified Partner Policy details last reviewed: 2026-10-22
Course image
Effort
2 to 4 hours per week for 4 weeks
Level
Elementary
Via
edX
Institution
University of Cape Town
Instructor
Dr. Ronald Irwin
Language
English
Transcript
English
Traffic lights
Read about what's good
what should give you pause
and possible dealbreakers
Builds an understanding of the structure and preparation of feature articles through the use of facts, figures, anecdotes, atmosphere, character, and storytelling
Helps learners use the article writing format that is the current industry standard
Develops awareness and knowledge of the editing and publication process in the feature article writing industry
Share this
Share to help others discover this course.
Facebook LinkedIn X Reddit Link Email
Begin learning today
Enroll now to gain full access to Writing Feature Articles.
Enroll now
Save for later
Add this course to your list. Find it anytime.
Save
Our mission

OpenCourser helps millions of learners each year. People visit us to learn workspace skills, ace their exams, and nurture their curiosity.

Our extensive catalog contains over 50,000 courses and twice as many books. Browse by search, by topic, or even by career interests. We'll match you to the right resources quickly.

Find this site helpful? Tell a friend about us.

Affiliate disclosure

We're supported by our community of learners. When you purchase or subscribe to courses and programs or purchase books, we may earn a commission from our partners.

Your purchases help us maintain our catalog and keep our servers humming without ads.

Thank you for supporting OpenCourser.

© 2016 - 2025 OpenCourser