Storytime Tapestry Newsletter

The newsletter devoted to spreading love and cultural awareness throughout the world.

Special Treat – From Me!

November 25, 2006

What makes a Good Article?

Carol Roach

Cami a fellow writer asked for my opinion on what makes a good article. Here is my response to her.

In my opinion there are several factors that contribute to writing a decent article. Whether your article is personal technical, or academic several of the same conditions apply.

1) Your article must hold the reader's attention. Although not every article will be liked by every reader, if it is on a subject that your readers generally like, it must hold their attention. If it is too boring then your writing is for naught.

2) Your article must be clear. Even in a mystery the reader must be able to understand what is going on, even if they may not know “who did it” until the end of the article. There is nothing worse than a writer getting back several comments such as " I didn't understand your article," I don't know what you are talking about," I have no idea what you are referring to,” or what is your point in all of this." These things should be made clear.

3) Your article should flow. You should clearly guide the reader from one point to another or from one idea to the next. If your work is all over the place, you risk the pitfalls of point 1) and 2) above.

4) Your article should be formatted correctly and particular attention paid to grammar and spelling, or again you risk the pitfalls of point 1) and 2) above.

5) If you are expressing an opinion, try to back it up with as many facts as you can. It is not good enough to say, “I think broccoli stinks.” Why do you think so, is it because of the texture, the flavour, the produce growers fault, etc.? Or, “I think George bush was the greatest American president;” if so why? Give as many examples as you can. Backing up your statements make your piece more powerful and gives you credibility as a writer.

6) Back up all facts with sources: Where did you find support for your opinion? Please note in a personal piece; about why you are afraid of cats for example, your source may simply be your dad who was also afraid of cats and taught you as a young child to walk on the opposite side of the street when you saw one. It could be a bad experience you had with a cat etc.

7) Be imaginative. Try to add something to your article that has not been done before. For example, we all loved our mothers and we have all read countless articles about how we love our mothers, "because she raised and cared for all of us,” How about I loved my mother because she used to hiccup after every time she laughed." Anything different will add your own signature to your piece and will make for a much better read.

8) Study the works of your favourite writers. When you are writing your own material, think about the type of pieces you love to read and the writers who write them. What compels you to read their works? What makes their work better than all the rest? Try to emulate that style or parts of their work that stands out. You will not suddenly become a modern day Faulkner simply because you try to write in that style, but you will be improving upon your own style, and creating your personal signature. You may pick up the technical style, but more importantly you will add your own personal experience and understanding of the world to your work.

9) Writing is a two tier experience, you learn from the masters and you develop your own voice.

10) Last but not least have fun. Do not stifle your creativity by worrying if you got all the technical aspects down pat. Let your creative juices flow. After you have emptied your soul onto paper you can go back to review, rewrite, revise. But first, Write, write and write some more. Don’t hold yourself back, just write!

Carol Roach

winterose@videotron.ca

A Native of Montreal, Quebec, Carol is a graduate of Concordia, and McGill University.  She holds a bachelor in psychology and a Masters in counselling psychology.  Carol Roach is a published writer and newsletter editor.  You can purchase her book: Picking up the Pieces: A Woman's Journey at www.publishamerica.com, or www.amazon.com.  You can also go to your local bookstore and order it there as well.  Be sure to quote the isbn number: 1-4137-1921-X for local purchases:  Carol’s second book: Angels Watching Over is currently looking for a home. Stay tuned for details.