When a deadline is looming and the article is not written, it’s easy to rush in and write an article on the fly. This usually results in a hurried and unprofessional article.
Freelance writers need to ensure their articles are always well planned and interesting. This is important for several reasons:
- More job satisfaction
- Earn more income due to repeat business
There are several article types you can use when writing for magazines. Below is a small selection of the most popular article types.
‘How To’ Articles
These are extremely popular articles, and the whole purpose of this type of article is to teach the reader how to do something.
There is no limit to the subject matter, which could vary from how to feed goldfish, how to sell a house without an agent, or how to install an indoor spa.
When writing how-to article, always assume the reader knows nothing about the subject matter, and no matter what, never talk down to the reader.
Instead, explain every step using clear language, and supply enough details that the reader can go out and do it themselves.
It important to ensure that while doing this you are not making the reader feel inferior. Using terms such as “of course” and “as you would already know” will make the reader believe they should already understand the information provided.
Make sure you provide details in the correct sequence if applicable, and where possible, provide uncluttered but relevant photographs.
‘List’ Articles
List articles are quite possibly the easiest to write.
The title will always alert the reader to the fact the article is a list article, and titles will run along the lines of “Ten Ways to Save Money on Your Grocery Bill”, “Five Ways to Teach Your Dog to Behave”, “Three Ways to Surprise Your Spouse” and more.
A list article will include:
- An Introduction;
- A list of points – use at least one paragraph, and preferably more to explain each list point;
- A conclusion. This is where you will summarize the article.
In some instances you will have more than one list within your article. You may start off by listing several items as shown above.
As you get further into the article, it may be appropriate to repeat the list, but this time expanding each item listed.
'Inspirational' Articles
Although inspirational articles may include information about faith and religion, these also cover self-help articles.
In these types of articles will you write about issues or problems that affect many people. These articles will usually cover everyday experiences, and will most often find a solution to a wide-spread problem. They should help the reader to deal with life and/or improve themselves in some way.
Don’t make the mistake of assuming everyone knows how to do a particular thing. That’s not always the case, and in many instances enlightenment will make a world of difference to a sufferer’s life.
Next time you are planning an article, ask yourself which type of article would work best. Varying the types of articles you write will develop your writing further, and as a result your articles will be purchased by a larger variety of publications.
Before submitting to publications, always check the types of articles they prefer, and write your articles accordingly.
Cheryl Wright - Cheryl Wright is an award-winning Australian author, freelance journalist, and editor. She is the owner of www.Writer2Writer.com ...
Join the Conversation