Article Writing: Comprehensive Guidelines
1. Understanding the Nature of an Article
An article is a written composition intended for publication in a newspaper, magazine, journal, or online
platform. Its purpose may vary—it can inform, persuade, argue, or entertain—but it must always be relevant
to the target audience and adhere to the conventions of clear, coherent writing.
Unlike reports, articles are less rigidly structured, but they still require organization and careful thought. They
strike a balance between being factual and engaging, allowing the writer’s viewpoint to emerge within
reason.
2. Key Features of an Effective Article
1. Clarity of Purpose
○ Every article must have a central idea or thesis. This determines whether it is informative,
persuasive, argumentative, or descriptive.
2. Relevance to the Audience
○ Articles are written with specific readers in mind. A piece in a student magazine will differ
significantly in tone and content from an editorial in a national newspaper.
3. Balanced Content
○ An article should not be a mere expression of opinion. It requires supporting evidence,
examples, or references.
4. Engaging Style
○ While formal, the article should maintain the reader’s interest. A monotonous or overly
academic style may alienate general readers.
3. Structure of an Article
Although articles do not follow the rigid frameworks of reports, they generally contain the following
elements:
a) Title
● Short, precise, and attention-grabbing.
● Should reflect the content of the article.
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b) Byline
● The name of the author. In academic or student contexts, this may sometimes be omitted.
c) Introduction
● Establishes the topic and sets the tone.
● Must attract interest immediately, perhaps with a striking fact, rhetorical question, or brief
contextualization.
● States the central theme or viewpoint.
d) Body
● The main section, usually divided into 2–4 paragraphs.
● Presents facts, arguments, and examples logically.
● Each paragraph should focus on a single main idea.
● Use of statistics, quotations, or anecdotes can strengthen arguments.
e) Conclusion
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● Summarises the discussion.
● Reinforces the central message or suggests future directions, actions, or reflections.
● Leaves the reader with a strong final impression.
4. Types of Articles
1. Informative Articles
○ Provide knowledge or explain a subject.
○ Example: “The Rise of Artificial Intelligence in Education.”
2. Persuasive Articles
○ Seek to influence opinion or encourage action.
○ Example: “Why Renewable Energy Must Replace Fossil Fuels.”
3. Analytical Articles
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○ Examine an issue from multiple perspectives, often using data.
○ Example: “Urbanization and Its Impact on Public Health.”
4. Narrative/Descriptive Articles
○ Employ storytelling techniques, often to highlight social or cultural issues.
○ Example: “Life in a Coastal Village after the Cyclone.”
5. Language and Style
● Formal yet accessible: Articles should avoid slang and colloquialism, but need not be as impersonal
as reports.
● Balanced voice: A mixture of objective information and personal perspective often works best.
● Conciseness: Sentences should be clear and to the point. Overly long sentences reduce readability.
● Tone: Should be adapted to audience and purpose. For example, a school magazine article may be
lighter than one in a scholarly journal.
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● Tense: Articles usually employ the present tense when discussing ideas and the past tense when
recounting events.
6. Effective Writing Techniques
1. Hook the Reader Early
○ Begin with a question, anecdote, or surprising fact.
2. Logical Flow
○ Arrange points in order of importance or chronology.
○ Use linking words and phrases to maintain coherence.
3. Support with Evidence
○ Back arguments with data, expert opinions, or concrete examples.
4. Balance Argument and Counterargument
○ Acknowledge opposing views to strengthen credibility.
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5. Conclude with Impact
○ The conclusion should not simply restate earlier points but should synthesise them into a
meaningful takeaway.
7. Common Pitfalls to Avoid
● Vagueness: Avoid generalised statements without support.
● Overly informal tone: Jokes, clichés, or chatty expressions may undermine seriousness.
● Bias without justification: Strong opinions unsupported by evidence weaken the article.
● Repetition: Avoid stating the same point in different words.
● Overloading with data: Too many figures can overwhelm readers; balance is essential.
8. Example Outline
Title: The Digital Divide in Modern Education
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Byline: By Priya Natarajan
Introduction:
Technology is reshaping classrooms worldwide, yet millions of students remain excluded from its benefits.
The digital divide threatens not only individual learners but the future of entire societies.
Body Paragraph 1:
Discuss global statistics on internet access and educational inequality.
Body Paragraph 2:
Examine specific case studies, e.g., rural India or sub-Saharan Africa.
Body Paragraph 3:
Present counterpoint: technological initiatives that are bridging gaps.
Conclusion:
Summarise issues and recommend that governments, corporations, and civil society collaborate to ensure
technology becomes a tool of inclusion rather than exclusion.
9. Practical Checklist for Article Writing
Before finalising an article, ensure the following:
1. The title is concise and relevant.
2. The introduction is engaging and clearly presents the theme.
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3. The body is logically organized with evidence and examples.
4. The conclusion offers closure and a strong takeaway.
5. The language is formal, clear, and appropriate to the audience.
6. The article stays within the required word limit.
7. Grammar, spelling, and punctuation have been carefully checked.
This document is designed to serve both students preparing for examinations and professionals drafting
articles for publication.
