DIRECTED
WRITING
-
ARTICLE
WRITING
Suppose you have some opinions regarding a topic and you want
to tell people about it. How will you do so? You can tell the
opinions to people near you. But what if you want to tell not only
those people but, say, the world? How will you do so? You will
write those opinions, isn’t it?
Many-a-times you have seen some writers or people writing their
problems and suggestions in some newspapers, magazines, and
journals or in their blogs. They write their opinions and beliefs in
the form of an article. In this section, we will familiarize ourselves
with article writing and its writing format.
What is an Article?
•An article is a short, informative piece of writing on a
specific topic.
It can inform, persuade, or present an opinion on a
particular subject.
•An article is a piece of writing written for a large audience.
The main motive behind writing an article is that it should
be published in either newspapers or magazines or journals
so as to make some difference to the world.
Objectives of Article Writing
•It brings out the topics or the matter of interest in the
limelight
•The article provides information on the topics
•It offers suggestions and pieces of advice
•It influences the readers and urges them to think
•The article discusses various stories, persons, locations,
rising-issues, and technical developments
Structure of an Article
Introduction:
•Grab attention with a hook (quote, fact, or question).
•Introduce the topic briefly.
•State the purpose of the article.
Body:
•Develop the main ideas.
•Support each point with facts, examples, and relevant information.
•Organize into 2–3 short paragraphs.
Conclusion:
• Summarize the main ideas.
• End with a thoughtful closing statement or call to action.
An article must be organized in a proper way so
as to draw the attention of the readers. The
basic outline for an article writing format is:
1.Heading / Title
2. Opening Paragraph Introduction
3.Body (the main part of the article, 2 – 3
paragraphs)
4.Conclusion (Ending paragraph of the article
with the opinion or recommendation,
anticipation or an appeal)
Steps for Article Writing Format
Think of the topic you want to write the article about. Only
after you’ve decided your topic you can go ahead and
undertake the further steps in the process one by one:
•Target Audience: Identify the concerning reading group
•Purpose: Find the objective or aim of writing the article
•Collect & Select: Gather as much information as possible.
Also, identify the details that are most significant
•Organize: Arrange the information and the facts in a logical
way
Steps for Article Writing Format
Once you’ve taken care of all the Above steps you move
forward to the final step- Writing.
•While writing an article, always use
proper grammar, spelling, and proper punctuations
•Use vocabulary skills
•Keep the introduction of the topic catchy, interesting, and
short
•Discuss the opinion and the matter in an organized and
descriptive manner
Common Mistakes in the Article Writing Format
● Not using facts or quotes or similar cases
● The language should not be too formal. Use
simple and clear language, not overly complex
words.
● The article must be in easy language for better
understanding
● The title of the article must be catchy and
clearly understandable
● No use of hefty paragraphs
Common Mistakes in the Article Writing Format
● Expressing personal views is fine but the author
must never talk about himself/herself
● Don’t wander off-topic.
● Avoid starting with vague or generic statements.
● Always end with a conclusion that sums up
your points.
● Always check your work for errors before
submitting.
Key Features of a Good Article
• The topics of the articles should be unique and relevant
• The article has to get attention
• It has to be interesting
• It has to be easy to read
• The reader is identified
• Find the main goal of writing an article. The goal can be anything
from providing information, entertainment, and advice or for
comparing, etc.
• The title must be eye-catching, clear, and interesting
Key Features of a Good Article
• The introduction or the starting paragraph must be highly attentive.
• Use your vocabulary skills or try to use some interrogative words
for the start
• Use clear statements and make assertions
• Avoid repetition and over the top logic and reasons
• Use the style of paragraph writing and write the contents uniquely
and unambiguously
• Avoid using the points which interest you only and not for the
general public
• Write a good and logical ending
Example Topics for Practice
The Role of Technology in Education
The Impact of Social Media on Youth
Should Junk Food be Banned in Schools?
Importance of Physical Fitness for Students
How to Reduce Pollution in Cities
Example of a Well-Written Article
Topic: Importance of Reading Books
Introduction: Reading is an essential activity that helps individuals
grow intellectually and emotionally. In an age where technology
often dominates, the value of reading books remains timeless.
Body: Reading books helps in developing vocabulary, improving
concentration, and offering new perspectives. It can also reduce
stress and improve mental health.
Conclusion: In conclusion, the habit of reading books should be
cultivated from a young age to enjoy lifelong benefits. Therefore,
schools should encourage students to read more.
“There is no greater
agony than bearing
an untold story
inside you."
— Maya Angelou
