News feature is a short, well-written and interesting article about a particular person, event or subject. It may also be about a trend or issue. The best news features are based on solid research and presented in an easily accessible way for the reader or listener. These articles are often written in a style that is different from hard news reporting, using fewer facts and more narrative elements. Depending on the format of the program where your feature will be broadcast, it can also vary in length and style.
When writing a news feature, it is important to have a good structure and outline to help guide the writing. This can be done on paper or in a word processing application. If you are writing for a news program, it can be helpful to listen to previous programs and find out the type of format the producer likes for their feature stories.
Use simple words and active verbs to keep the reader interested. Personal words and a direct quote from the subject help build interest. Also, using transitions such as “also,” “furthermore,” and “along with” are great ways to show readers and listeners that your story is developing in a logical way.
Using personal words and transitions is also important to grab the reader’s attention, as does using a “kicker” to end your story with some punch. Having a good structure and outline for your feature can make it easier to meet the deadlines set by your program producer or commissioning editor.