How to Write a Good Article

What makes a good article? One may ask. You see, Sometimes you pick up a magazine and can't stop reading one piece, whereas another piece has you turning the page before the end of the first few paragraphs. Well, there is more to writing a good article than putting words down on paper. 

Firstly, carefully research and study your subject matter. 

Think it all through very carefully, WHAT you are going to say and HOW you are going to say it. I believe the essence of writing a good interesting article is simplicity. Always aim for clarity and simplicity in your writing. How long should your article be?

In writing for newspapers or popular magazines the length is probably around 500-750 words (or one to 2 pages). I would far rather read a 1000 word article giving information that would help me, than a breezy 3000 word article of that doesn't say much at all.

• Always try to put yourself in the position of the reader.
• After completion, re-read your article a number of times.
• Polish it up by changing words and expressions.
• Ensure that your article reads quickly and easily.

Otherwise if an article is too long the reader can easily lose concentration and give up. Examine your sentences and paragraphs carefully to ensure that the words flow smoothly. A paragraph should deal with one idea, developed in one or more sentences that logically advance the points you are trying to make, add meaning or develop the story you are telling.

Always try to make your meaning clear.

Ensure that your sentences are well structured and that your grammar is correct. The first words of your article are of vital importance to grab your reader's attention. You are doing a "selling" job to entice them to read more - so make the reader want to read more.

Develop your theme logically. Carefully plan what you are going to say. Make a list of your main points. Then progress from one to another (logically), so that they lead to a conclusion.

There are three main parts of any article.

Your article should have an introduction. This introduces the reader to the subject. Then the main body of the article which comprises most of an article. This then leads logically to a final deduction or conclusion.

This is essentially a summary of all the main points mentioned before. I believe the key to writing good articles lies in good PLANNING. Collecting your material and thinking clearly. Spend quiet time thinking before you even set pen to paper. Ask for inspiration

Your article should answer the five questions of a very inquisitive person:

• WHO
• WHAT
• WHERE
• HOW
• WHEN

I've just remembered I used to drive my dad nuts with those questions when I was a kid. I think it was Rudyard Kipling, the British writer, who "coined them".

As I mentioned, the title and your first words are of vital importance to grab your reader's attention. Make them want to read more. Develop your theme step by step - it's like building a wall brick by brick. Plan what you are going to say, and how you are going to say it. Make a list of your main points. Then elaborate on them.

Progress logically, naturally and smoothly from one to another, so that  they lead to a conclusion. I'm repeating myself, not out of senility... but for effect. Also saves me the trouble of even more editing!

Have a strong summary to round off your article. If you know exactly how you are going to end off, the more easily you will shape the article as a whole. It's like starting off with a piece of clay then molding and shaping it.

You are adding your personal touch, a bit of your personality, your individual thoughts and creativity to the sculpture of life. It is a bit of the real you coming out - a little of you and your unique "work of art" is being expressed to the world. 

OTHER POINTERS

I firmly believe writing articles should be entertaining as well as informative. I aim for that in my writing STYLE. Don't be too impersonal - put in little anecdotes about yourself. Also don't be afraid to express personal opinions on issues.

Hope this article may be helpful to you.  Now use your creative imagination to the fullest and happy writing.

Good luck Happy writing