A featured story is a news article that takes a deep dive into the human side of an issue, topic or current event. This type of story goes beyond the typical hard news reporting by delivering an informative and interesting piece that appeals to a wide range of audiences.
Feature stories are typically longer and more in-depth than standard news articles. They often include a personal narrative, bringing the story to life through the perspectives of the subject or a variety of voices. In addition to the human element, a great feature story often includes data visualizations and video to create an immersive experience for readers.
The best research and storytelling won’t save a feature that lacks structure. Whether the story is about a celebrity, social change, or a global phenomenon, a strong feature story must have a clear arc that engages readers from start to finish. This can be accomplished by dropping the reader into a scene, posing a question that demands to be answered, or incorporating a surprising fact that forces the reader to keep reading.
Using quotes from experts is a common strategy in a feature, but it’s important to go beyond what they say. Ask rhetorical questions to reveal motivations, conflicts, and contradictions that will make your story more compelling. Ensure that every quote is sourced, and that any statistic or anecdote you present is well-researched. Adding multiple sources of information will also help your readers understand the complex nature of the issue or current event you’re covering.
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