Do you have a flair for writing? Have you always wished to be a professional writer? Are you confused about the right way to start?

The answer to all your questions might be a fabulous, respectable and financially-rewarding career in Feature Article Writing which would also satisfy the creative artist in you.

What is Feature Article Writing?

A feature article refers to an extended piece of writing of 800 to 1500 words in length which provides in-depth information that is relevant to a certain audience. Features can be developed from existing white papers, case studies, applications, researched material and development projects. They play a significant role in a company as they are seen as the 'authority' on a particular subject.

Feature article writing is a separate form of writing and hence has a set of guidelines which need to be kept in mind.

• Style: Features are written in journalistic style offered to a targeted sector of society. They need to be specific, informative and relevant.

• Audience: Features are not like stories or general news items for everyone to read. In feature article writing, you often focus on one topic. Hence the audience is also narrowed down to a small section of people for whom the given information is important.

• Editors' preference: The publishers do not prefer features which are 'disguised arguments' written solely for praising a person, company, idea or viewpoint. They are more inclined to publish factual features which are new and original as editors want to be the first one in their media sector to be covering that particular story.

What are the benefits of Feature Article Writing?

• Issues: Features discuss big issues and help develop an understanding on a particular subject. Hence, the interested audience is bound to read a feature on the topic of their choice

• Companies and Promotions: Some features help the positioning of a company or a brand. Sometimes reprinted feature articles are used in direct mail and other forms of promotion. This builds the recognition of the writer with a certain brand.

• Easy access: Feature articles are also indexed and recorded/collected by readers. This ensures greater distinction as a writer over a period of time.

• Continuation: One feature cannot change the world. There is a need of continuous feature articles following a feature on a particular topic. Hence even a free-lancer is not out of work after finishing with one feature article.

What do I need to be a professional Feature Article Writer?

Feature article writing is specialized writing. Any one with a good command over the language and knowledge over a particular topic can be a feature article writer. If you are a freelancer, you could even work from your home with the investment or infrastructure constituting just pen and paper

What should I keep in mind while writing a feature?

The best thing about writing a feature is that you don't have to wait for any particular time or any event to take place. A feature topic can range from a highly technical scientific instrument to a story about a social worker who is helping to clear the garbage dumps in your city. You need to keep some things in mind while writing a feature:

• Get to the point: Your first paragraph itself should make it very clear as to what your feature is all about. You need to attract the readers to read your feature. Don't beat about the bush. Go for the kill.

• Organize: Like any other form of writing, your feature should be well thought-of and planned. Making an outline before you start writing the actual piece is a good idea.

• Short Paragraphs: Language must be readable with short paragraphs which make for enjoyable reading. Avoid hard-line breaks.

• Details: Providing details using strong verbs and nouns helps as it makes the feature interesting. Try to paint a picture using words.

• Be exact: You need not tell everything you know about a particular topic. Be precise. Write about a specific topic otherwise the feature may seem vague and disinteresting.