How to Write Articles
Been encouraging some of our brethren to write for The Vineyard Magazine and found out that some of you are actually interested but didn’t know where to start. So I’m doing this post to give some basic tips on how to write an article in general. :)
Hey! Remember – that we don’t need a “pro” for this; what we need is your heart and commitment.
I often share during talks that I am a struggling writer. I have submitted stories and poem in my school paper but didn’t get them published. Yet I never stop writing. Writing calms me down and expressing my thoughts eases me. Way back then, my only audience was myself – because I wrote them on my diary. But my dream of being a writer comes alive when a good friend and fellow teacher from GEOS encouraged me to write a book review for Cebu’s ZEE Magazine!!!!
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| O diba, ayaw sa School paper dahil – sa Local Cebu magazine pala ang aking premier! Ha ha ha! :) |
From that day on, when I saw my name on that magazine (of course I purchased one…) I never stopped dreaming.
I also had another printed short 5-8 liner quote in Cebu’s tabloid – Super Balita “Reader’s corner” where I won a grocery package for Christmas and eventually started my blog as my platform for all the thoughts on my head by writing.
Flashback 2012, with God’s grace – I end up with the community’s magazine – The Vineyard Magazine / TVM! See how God works in His ways? . . .
Anyhow enough about me, here is what this post is all about.
Let’s start…
What is an article?
· It is a piece of writing usually intended for publication such as magazine, journal and newspaper. It is written for the wide audience that may include stories, events, reports, announcements and other information.
· An article can describe an experience, present an opinion, compare and contrast, offer advices and suggestions.
· It can be formal or informal (for The Vineyard, we accept it all J – allowing everyone to share their time and talent. Our goal is to inspire people, therefore I encourage that writers write their personal reflection and realization of the activities or event they are writing. Adding a quote or a bible passage suits best.
The Basic Format
Like in our English writing classes, an article has 3 basic parts: The introduction, main body & conclusion.
- Introduction – this part clearly defines the topic to be covered and keep the reader’s attention.
- Main Body– describe the events or stories with details for 3-5 paragraphs.
- Conclusion– closing and summarizing the whole topic. It could be personal comment/final opinion or a recommendation through quotes ( bible verses is applicable for The Vineyard)
PLUS!!! An eye-catching TITLE!
Do you notice what you (as a reader) is attracted to when it comes to newspapers? It’s the intriguing titles and sub-heading titles. (Think of what articles – have you read lately and what made you read it?) – This one is a key to get your reader’s attention.
It may also answer the 5 Ws + H (if applicable) What, When, Where, Who and Why/How.
Remember as well to consider where the article your writing is for – a newspaper? A magazine or journal? , who are the readers and what is the aim of your article, does it follow to the goal of the newspaper/magazine you are writing for?
These are just the basics and google could offer you more ways and tips to make your article better.
As a closing to this post, let me inspire you with this:
“Our life is an empty book, we are the author of it” so make yours interesting! . . . #InMyHeartJMKaynesBlog #iamjmkayne #PPBreakthroughs Share on X
Happy writing everyone!
ODW – 18 Feb 2015
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