Feature Writing

Some writers follow the so-called “40-40-20 rule” when writing features, which outlines how to divide their time. What does each number represent?

• a. 40 percent of time on writing, 40 percent on background research and 20 percent on reporting

• b. 40 percent of time on background research, 40 percent on reporting and 20 percent on writing

• c. 40 percent of time on reporting, 40 percent on writing and 20 percent on fact checking

• d. 40 percent of time on writing, 40 percent on sleeping and 20 percent on exercising

2. True or False: “Always get the name of the dog” is a reminder to gather all the details while reporting.

• True

• False

3. The best way to conduct interviews for features is:

• Over the phone or via Skype

• Via e-mail

• in person

• Whatever works best for the subject

True or False: Of the following sentences, the second one best illustrates the principle of “show not tell.” Sentence #1 “Hannah sank into the old office chair, the green vinyl quietly squeaked as she slumped down and dropped her head back, loudly exhaling into the still–dark room.” Sentence #2 “Hannah was tired after a long night at work.”

• True

• False

Why is finding the theme important to the feature writing process?

• a. It helps the writer decide what details to include in the story.

• b. It helps the writer pitch the story to editors for publication.

• c. It helps the writer decide what music to listen to while writing.

• d. It helps the writer pen a good headline.

What two reporting skills help a writer create a story setting?

• a. Observation and interviewing

• b. Quick thinking and good judgment

• c. Photography and recording

• d. Organization and time management

What element or elements should be at the heart of a feature story?

• a. Facts and information

• b. Descriptive language

• c. People

• d. History and background

Which of the following ISN’T a function of dialogue in feature writing?

• a. Conveying a character’s personality and authenticity

• b. Creating a change of pace in the writing

• c. Moving the story along

• d. Allowing the writer to try out script-writing abilities

True or False: It is best to avoid verb forms of “to be” such as “she is” or “he was.”

• True

• False

Which of the following sentences contains a metaphor?

• a. Her smile shone like sunshine.

• b. A heavy fog lingered over the hill.

• c. The cat’s meow sounded like a squeaky door.

• d. This test was a breeze.