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?

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

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

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

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

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

• True

• False

The best way to conduct interviews for features is:

• in person

• Skype or Zoom

• Email

• Phone

• Whatever works for the interviewee

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 squeaking 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?

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

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

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

• It helps the writer pen a good headline.

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

• Observation and interviewing

• Quick thinking and good judgment

• Photography and recording

• Organization and time management

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

• Facts and information

• Descriptive language

• People

• History and background

Which of the following isn't a function of dialogue in feature writing?

• Conveying a character’s personality and authenticity

• Creating a change of pace in the writing

• Moving the story along

• Allowing the writer to try out script-writing abilities

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?

• Her smile shone like sunshine.

• A heavy fog lingered over the hill.

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

• This test was a breeze.