Not just for your parents

Although social media has taken over our lives, printed news papers are still a massive industry in Canada.  Pulling in almost $900 million a year in revenue for the  4 major Canadian competitors. (IBISWorld, 2016).  These companies may be creating their own apps now but that hasn't diminished the feeling we all got on a Sunday morning when our parents would hand us the comic section.  A lot of us still appreciate the printed paper as adults.

With that being said, we are going to explore how to actually build/write a good article.  Whether you choose to write about politics, religion, fashion or sports, the basis will almost always follow the same structure.

Heading

Keep it short and to the point.  This is what will attract your readers.

Sub-Heading

Here, you should sum up your article within a couple sentences.

Opening Paragraph

This is your final make or break point.  Start off with interesting facts, keep your information credible and show the audience the kind of voice the rest of your article will hold.

Body

Any statistics or related information will be brought to attention.  Depth will be added to the article, allowing the readers to get a further understanding.  Depending on the subject and size of the publication, the body could be anywhere between 2-10 paragraphs.

Conclusion

Wrap up the article with reference to the sub-heading.  If any call-to-action needs to be stated, it will be done here.  If not, make sure your final sentences have strong presence to leave a lasting impression on the audience.

Contact

Depending on where your article will be published, a comment or grievance contact number and/or email may be necessary.  Make sure this is explored before the publication date to avoid any backlash.
(TrueShip, 2015)

Following this outline does not guarantee a good article, but it can at least give you an idea of what one should look like.  Professionalism should also be considered.  Remember who your audience is, whether its a high school news paper or an article you are submitting for consideration at a National publisher.

-Lauren

IBISWorld. (2016). Major Companies. Retrieved from IBISWorld: clients1.ibisworld.com.library.sheridanc.on.ca/reports/ca/industry/majorcompanies.aspx?entid=1231#MP1000

TrueShip. (2015, Dec 2). How To Be A Media Mogul With Ecommerce Press Releases. Retrieved from TrueShip: www.trueship.com/blog/2015/12/02/how-to-be-a-media-mogul-with-ecommerce-press-releases/#.Vq0RIoTZfdk