Begins with imagery focused on a person, event, place, or thing
Engages the audience immediately into the story with dialogue or an interesting scenario.
Weaves subtly into the first few paragraphs the answers to the six journalistic questions (who, what, when, where, why, how). Sometimes the answers to why/how questions do not appear until the body.
Sometimes a writer will delay the answers to the six journalistic questions as a way to engage the reader into a topic that he/she might not read otherwise. This method is tricky!
Body
Maintains its focus on the subject of the story; avoids unnecessary information.
Provides details that continue or extend the image introduced in the lead.
Has a pace that matches the tone of the story.
Action-packed features have a lively tone and quicker pace.
More reflective studies of people or places have a quiet tone and slower pace.
Includes quotations that add to overall effect and substance of the story.
Maintains objective reporter voice although the human side of reporting is evident in this voice.
Contains paragraphs that are unified and well-organized so that readers follow the story without confusion.
Conclusion
Ties together the imagery with the topic or substance, leaving no loose ends.
Provides an impact ending, or what is known as the "Aha!" response by the reader.
Leaves the reader with a sense of closure and satisfaction.
May include a final quote or statement that resonates with the reader.
Leaves the reader thinking or reflecting on the topic of the story.
Overall, a well-written feature article should engage the reader from the beginning, provide relevant and interesting information in the body, and leave the reader with a lasting impression in the conclusion. It should be clear, concise, and meaningful, capturing the reader's attention and keeping it until the very end.