Article Writing

What is an article?

An article

  • is a piece of writing usually intended for publication in a newspaper, magazine or journal
  • is written for a wide audience, so it is essential to attract and retain the readers’ attention
  • may include amusing stories, reported speech and descriptions
  • can be formal or informal, depending on the target audience
  • should be written in an interesting or entertaining manner
  • should give opinions and thoughts, as well as facts
  • is in a less formal style than a report

An article can

  • describe an experience, event, person or place
  • present an opinion or balanced argument
  • compare and contrast
  • provide information
  • offer suggestions
  • offer advice

A realistic article should consist of:

  • an eye-catching title which attracts the readers’ attention and suggests the theme of the article. (Think about why you read a magazine or newspaper article recently - what made you read it?) Articles can also have subheadings before each paragraph.
  • an introduction which clearly defines the topic to be covered and keeps the reader’s attention.
  • the main body of two to five paragraphs in which the topic is further developed in detail.
  • the conclusion - summarising the topic or a final opinion, recommendation or comment.