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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.

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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.

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Good to know

Know what's good
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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

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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:
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.

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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.

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