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Writing sports articles for newspapers

Writing a news article is different from writing other articles or informational pieces, because news articles present information in a specific way. It’s important to be able to convey all the important information in a limited word count and giving the best information to your targeted audience. Knowing how to write a news article can help you expand a journalism career, exercise your writing skills and convey information clearly and concisely.

Part One of Three: Planning Your Article Edit

Research your topic. To begin writing a news article you need to research the topic you will be writing about extensively. In order to have a credible, well written, well structured article, you have to know the topic well.

• If you’ve ever written a research paper you understand the work that goes into learning about your topic. The first phase of writing a news article or editorial is pretty similar.
• Who – who was involved?
• What – what happened?
• Where – where did it happen?
• Why – why did it happen?
• When – when did it happen?
• How – how did it happen?

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Compile all your facts.

• 1) those that need to be included in the article.
• 2) those that are interesting but not vital.
• 3) those that are related but not important to the purpose of the article.

• Be as specific as possible when writing down all of these facts. You can always trim down unnecessary information later, but it’s easier to cut down than it is to have to beef up an article.
• It’s okay at this point to have holes in your information – if you don’t have a pertinent fact, write down the question and highlight it so you won’t forget to find it out

Create an article outline. Your outline, and subsequently your article, should be structured for like an inverted triangle. The inverted triangle allows you to build your story so that the most important information is at the top. [2]

• If you’ve ever heard the term “burying the lead”, that is in reference to the structure of your article. [3] The “lead” is the first sentence of the article – the one you “lead” with. Not “burying the lead” simply means that you shouldn’t make your readers read several paragraphs before they get to the point of your article.
• Whatever forum you’re writing for, be it print or for the web, a lot of readers don’t make it to the end of the article. When writing a news article you should focus on giving your readers what they want as soon as possible.
• Write above the fold. The fold comes from newspapers where there’s a crease because the page gets folded in half. If you look at a newspaper all the top stories are placed above the fold. The same goes for writing online. The virtual fold is the bottom of your screen before you have to scroll down. Put the best information at the top to engage your readers and encourage them to keep reading.

Know your audience. In order to write a great news article you need to know exactly who you are writing for. Your audience will dictate the voice and tone of your article and help you to know what you should include.

• Ask yourself the “5W’s” again, but this time in relation to your audience.
• Questions like what is the average age you are writing for, where is this audience, local or national, why is this audience reading your article, and what does your audience want out of your article will inform you on how to write.
• Once you know who you are writing for you can format an outline that will get the best information to the right audience as quickly as possible.

Find an angle. Why is this article unique to you? What is your voice? These questions will help you to make your news article unique and something that only you could write.

• Even if you are covering a popular story or topic that others are writing about, look for an angle that will make this one yours.
• Do you have a personal experience that relates to your topic? Maybe you know someone who is an expert that you can interview.

Interview people. When writing a news article, interviewing people and getting a first hand source on your topic can be invaluable. And while reaching out to people and asking for an interview may seem daunting, it can greatly affect the credibility and authority of your article. [4]

• People usually like to talk about personal experiences, especially if it will be featured somewhere, like your news article. Reach out through a phone call, email, or even social media and ask someone if you can interview them.
• When you do interview people you need to follow a few rules: identify yourself as a reporter. Keep an open mind. Stay objective. While you are encouraged to ask questions and listen to anecdotes, you are not there to judge.
• Record and write down important information from the interview, and be transparent with what you are doing and why you are doing this interview.

Part Two of Three: Writing Your News Article Edit

Start with the lead. Begin with a strong leading sentence. News articles begin with a leading sentence that is meant to grab a reader’s attention and interest them. This is one of the most important parts of the piece, so start with the the good stuff when writing a news article. Remember the inverted triangle.

• Your lead should be one sentence and should simply, but completely, state the topic of the article.
• Remember when you had to write essays for school? Your lead is like your thesis statement.
• Let your readers know what your news article is about, why it’s important, and what the rest of the article will contain.

Give all the important details. The next important step to writing news articles is including all the relevant facts and details that relate to your lead statement. Include the basics of what happened, where and when it took place, who is involved and why it’s newsworthy.

• These details are important, because they are the focal point of the article that fully informs the reader.
• If you are writing an opinion piece, this is where you will state what your opinion is as well.

Follow up main facts with additional information. After you’ve listed all the primary facts in your news article, include any additional information that might help the reader learn more, such as contact information, additional facts about the topic or people involved, or quotes from interviews.

• This additional information helps round out the article and can help you transition to new points as you move along.
• If you have an opinion, this is where you will identify the opposing views and the people who hold them.
• A good news article will outline facts and information. A great news article will allow readers to engage on an emotional level.
• To engage your readers, you should provide enough information that anyone reading your news article can make an informed opinion, even if it contrasts with yours.
• This also applies to a news article where you the author don’t state your opinion but present it as an unbiased piece of information. Your readers should still be able to learn enough about your topic to form an opinion.

Conclude your article. Congratulate your readers for sticking with you to the end by giving the reader something to take away, like potential solutions to the problem or challenges expressed in your article.

• Make sure your news article is complete and finished by giving it a good concluding sentence. This is often a restatement of the leading statement (thesis) or a statement indicating potential future developments relating to the article topic.
• Read other news articles for ideas on how to best accomplish this. Or, watch news stations or shows. See how a news anchor will wrap up a story and sign off, then try to emulate that.

How do I write a science news article related?

Answered by wikiHow Contributor

• Well-written news articles on science topics should be able to explain scientific concepts clearly and understandably to the layperson. You can start by writing about a new study that was done and summarize its results. Get some opinions on the subject by conducting interviews with the people behind the study and other experts. Remember to explain any jargon or complex concepts.

What are some qualities of a good news writer?

• The main qualities of a good news writer is the ability to search out a news worthy event or idea that others may find interesting. They are clear, concise, and relate to their audience.

How do I write an article to a newspaper on the benefits and misuse of mobile phones in our lives?

• Write it the same way you would any other article. Compile your facts, craft a good lead, and support it with the information you gathered. You can also write a less formal letter to the editor to comment on social issues regarding mobile phones.

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10 Proven Steps: How to Write a Sports Article - Ultimate Guide 2024

Here are 10 important statistics about sports articles:

• Over 80% of sports fans read articles online.
• Sports articles generate over 1 billion page views per month.
• The average time spent reading a sports article is 4 minutes.
• Articles with images receive 94% more views than those without.
• Headlines with numbers perform 36% better than those without.
• Articles with social media sharing buttons get 7 times more shares.
• Long-form articles (over 1,000 words) rank higher in search engines.
• Articles with videos have a 300% higher engagement rate.
• Articles that include quotes from athletes are more credible.
• Articles that provide actionable tips are more likely to be shared.

1. Choose a Captivating Topic

When writing a sports article, it's crucial to select a captivating topic that will grab the attention of your readers. Consider current events, trending topics, or controversial issues in the sports world. Use tools like Google Trends or social media platforms to identify popular subjects.

Examples of captivating sports article topics:

- "The Impact of Technology on Sports Performance"

- "The Rise of Esports: A New Era in Competitive Gaming"

- "The Psychology Behind Athlete Motivation"

- "The Evolution of Women's Sports: Breaking Barriers"

- "The Role of Nutrition in Athletic Performance"

2. Conduct Thorough Research

Before you start writing, conduct thorough research on your chosen topic. Gather information from reputable sources such as sports publications, academic journals, and interviews with experts in the field. This will ensure that your article is accurate, informative, and credible.

Tips for conducting research:

- Use search engines to find relevant articles and studies.

Example of me using AtOnce's AI SEO writer to generate high-quality articles that actually rank in Google:

- Take notes and organize your findings for easy reference.

- Interview athletes, coaches, or sports professionals for unique insights.

- Fact-check your information to avoid spreading false or misleading content.

3. Craft an Engaging Introduction

The introduction of your sports article should hook your readers and make them want to continue reading. Start with a compelling opening sentence that grabs attention and sets the tone for the rest of the article. Use storytelling techniques or ask thought-provoking questions to engage your audience.

Example of an engaging introduction:

"Imagine standing in a packed stadium, the roar of the crowd echoing in your ears. The tension is palpable as the athletes prepare to compete in the biggest sporting event of their lives. In this article, we delve into the psychology behind athlete motivation and explore what drives these individuals to push their limits and achieve greatness."

4. Structure Your Article with Subheadings

Organize your sports article using subheadings to create a clear and logical structure. This helps readers navigate through your content and find the information they're looking for. Use H2 and H3 headings to break down your article into sections and subsections.

Benefits of using subheadings:

- Improves readability and scannability of your article.

- Helps search engines understand the structure and relevance of your content.

- Allows readers to quickly find specific information within your article.

5. Write Concise and Informative Paragraphs

When writing a sports article, aim for concise and informative paragraphs. Keep your sentences short and simple to enhance readability. Each paragraph should focus on a single idea or point, making it easier for readers to digest the information.

Example of a concise and informative paragraph:

"Sports nutrition plays a crucial role in an athlete's performance. Proper fueling before, during, and after exercise can optimize energy levels, enhance recovery, and improve overall athletic performance. Carbohydrates, protein, and fats are the three macronutrients that athletes need to prioritize in their diet."

6. Use Relevant Keywords

Optimize your sports article for search engines by using relevant keywords throughout your content. This helps search engines understand the topic of your article and rank it higher in search results. Use tools like Google Keyword Planner or SEMrush to identify popular keywords related to your topic.

Example where I used AtOnce's AI SEO optimizer to rank higher on Google without wasting hours on research:

Tips for using keywords:

- Include your main keyword in the title and headings of your article.

- Sprinkle related keywords naturally throughout your content.

- Avoid keyword stuffing, as it can negatively impact your search rankings.

- Use long-tail keywords to target specific niche audiences.

7. Incorporate Visual Elements

Enhance the visual appeal of your sports article by incorporating relevant images, videos, or infographics. Visual elements not only make your article more engaging but also help convey information more effectively. Use high-quality images and videos that are related to your topic.

Benefits of incorporating visual elements:

- Increases reader engagement and time spent on your article.

- Makes complex information easier to understand and remember.

- Enhances the overall aesthetic appeal of your article.

8. Include Quotes and Expert Opinions

Add credibility and depth to your sports article by including quotes from athletes, coaches, or experts in the field. Quotes provide unique insights and perspectives that can enrich your content. Conduct interviews or research existing interviews to find relevant quotes that support your points.

Example of a quote from an athlete:

"I believe that hard work, dedication, and a positive mindset are the keys to success in sports. It's important to set goals, stay focused, and never give up, no matter how challenging the journey may be." - Serena Williams, professional tennis player

9. Edit and Proofread Your Article

Before publishing your sports article, take the time to edit and proofread it for errors or inconsistencies. Check for grammatical mistakes, spelling errors, and ensure that your sentences flow smoothly. Consider using editing tools like Grammarly or Hemingway Editor to improve the clarity and readability of your writing.

Tips for editing and proofreading:

- Read your article aloud to catch any awkward phrasing or unclear sentences.

- Ask a friend or colleague to review your article for a fresh perspective.

Example where I'm using AtOnce's AI review response generator to make customers happier:

- Double-check all facts and figures to ensure accuracy.

10. Promote Your Sports Article

Once you've published your sports article, don't forget to promote it to reach a wider audience. Share your article on social media platforms, sports forums, or relevant online communities. Engage with your readers by responding to comments and encouraging them to share your article with others.

Tips for promoting your sports article:

- Share snippets or quotes from your article on social media platforms.

- Engage with influencers or sports personalities who may be interested in your content.

- Submit your article to sports publications or websites for potential features.

- Include social media sharing buttons on your article to encourage readers to share.

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What are the key elements to include in a sports article?

When writing a sports article, it is important to include the following key elements: a catchy headline, an engaging introduction, relevant statistics and facts, quotes from players or coaches, a detailed description of the game or event, analysis and commentary, and a strong conclusion.

How should I structure a sports article?

A sports article should be structured in a clear and organized manner. Start with a headline that grabs the reader's attention, followed by an introduction that provides background information. Then, present the main body of the article, which should include a detailed account of the game or event, analysis and commentary, and quotes from players or coaches. Finally, conclude the article with a strong ending that summarizes the key points and leaves the reader with a lasting impression.

What are some tips for writing a compelling sports article?

To write a compelling sports article, consider the following tips: research the game or event thoroughly, use descriptive language to paint a vivid picture for the reader, include quotes from players or coaches to add authenticity, provide analysis and commentary to offer insights, and proofread your article carefully to ensure accuracy and clarity.

Asim Akhtar

Asim is the CEO & founder of AtOnce. After 5 years of marketing & customer service experience, he's now using Artificial Intelligence to save people time.

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Olympics 2021: Top storylines to follow heading into the Tokyo Games

From simone biles to katie ledecky, team usa soccer to men's basketball and all the new sports in tokyo, a full-fledged primer on what to know about the 2021 games.

The Olympics are the biggest stage in global sports and attract the most media of any organized competition on the planet. The Games of the XXXII Olympiad return this week and will be held in Tokyo. After the 2020 Games were delayed a year due the ongoing COVID-19 global pandemic, it was determined that the Olympics would be pushed back no further. 

The Games are scheduled to feature 339 events in 33 sports. As is the case with every Olympics, the storylines are plentiful. We're here to give you an advance guide of what to know before the opening ceremony happens Friday.

Here are 10 plot points to follow for what will be a highly publicized, and inevitably debatable, Games. 

1. COVID-19 hovers over everything

As if any story could be bigger than the biggest situation to afflict the entire planet in decades. In Japan, COVID-19 cases are higher than they've been in six months, and athletes have been affected. On the American end, tennis player Coco Gauff announced Sunday she tested positive and would not be able to compete . In women's gymnastics,  an alternate on the team has tested positive and another has been put into contact-tracing protocols . A worker in the Olympic Village has also tested positive. 

This situation may get worse, and there's no telling who could have their eligibility compromised. There are huge public health questions, scrutiny over vaccinations, potential forfeitures of competition by athletes. We already know of one high-profile athlete -- American swimmer Michael Andrew -- who is not vaccinated and is therefore increasing his risk of disqualification. The same goes for American track athlete Cole Hocker .

With no fans in attendance, the 2021 Games are being put on purely as a TV show (which is mostly what the Olympics has evolved into over the past 20 years). The coronavirus pandemic will hover over every element, every day, and nearly every moment of the Games due to the state-of-emergency circumstances in Japan. You won't see fans in the stands, and it's all too easy, unfortunately, to envision a scenario in which athletes wind up being disqualified due to positive tests. Even the medal ceremonies will be different this time around: instead of the tradition of a medalist bending down to be wreathed with their prize, the gold, silver and bronze winners will be grabbing their medals themselves and putting them on . 

While American sports have successfully pulled off major events -- the NBA Finals in a bubble, the Super Bowl in the thick of winter, and multi-week men's and women's NCAA Tournaments in controlled environments -- the Olympics dwarfs all of those events. Considering Japan's vaccination rate, and its state-of-emergency declaration , the number of people working and competing in the Games and the contagiousness of the Delta variant , these Olympic Games represent the biggest sporting event the planet has taken on amid COVID-19. 

A majority of Japanese citizens do not even want the Games to go on , but with billions of dollars at stake, Olympics officials have decided the show will go on. 

2. The Simone Biles show

In terms of American Olympians in 2021, Biles is the biggest deal, the most famous athlete, the most dominant competitor and, at the age of 24, already one of the greatest athletes in the world. She's one of the most impressive athletes in Olympic/American history and owns four gold medals and took a bronze in 2016. 

She will be must-see TV in every event she competes in. Those events are likely to be:

• Team competition
• Individual all-around
• Floor exercise
• Balance beam

If Biles medals in four more events, she's the most decorated gymnast in Olympic history. Biles is generational not only in accomplishments and greatness, but her ability to transcend her sport and the Olympics and symbolize American exceptionalism. 

She has no peer.

Biles has basically altered the interpretation of physics in her sport. She has "GOAT" on her leotard, and with good reason. Biles is the rare athlete who, in the prime of their career, is already regarded as an all-time great -- maybe the greatest. These Olympics can solidify that. It speaks to an athlete's greatness when you consider that, should they not wind up winning any event they compete in, that would be the biggest surprise of all. This is Biles' reality.

3. Katie Ledecky's inevitable dominance

For as captivating as Biles is, Katie Ledecky could be the more dominant athlete in her sport due to how much she's capable of literally distancing herself from the competition. Over the next two weeks, Ledecky will certifiably replace Michael Phelps as the face of American swimming.

Like Biles, Ledecky is 24. She's competing in her third Games and is expected to win gold in the:

• 200 meter freestyle
• 400 meter freestyle
• 800 meter freestyle
• 1,500 meter freestyle

Her best event, the 1,500 meter freestyle, is new to the Games this year. She'll also swim in the 4 × 200 freestyle relay and, potentially, the 4 x 100 freestyle relay. 

The question isn't whether she'll win, it's whether she'll beat all her competitors by at least a pool-length (in the 800 and 1,500). Swimming can so often be a sport of inches and half-seconds, but Ledecky has turned the tide entirely. She's made swimming a spectacle of gawk due to her dominance.

There's never been a female swimmer as fast as her, on the whole, in the events she's competing in. These Games are effectively the moment where Ledecky can cement her status as an all-time Olympic legend.

4. Will Team USA men's hoops team falter?

Pretty much the only thing that could gin up additional interest in the United States men's team in advance of the Olympics happened. Team USA lost back-to-back games against Nigeria and Australia earlier in July. No matter that those two countries have NBA players dotted throughout the roster. It's basketball. It's Team USA.

Losses aren't supposed to happen.

In fact, the United States took two losses -- total -- in international play from 1992 until June of 2021. Then it lost two games in less than a week. 

Obviously, Team USA -- led by Kevin Durant -- are heavy favorites to win the gold in Tokyo. Yet there's been stumbles along the way. Bradley Beal and Kevin Love were cycled off the roster and replaced by ... uh ... says here ... JaVale McGee and Keldon Johnson ? No, Zion Williamson isn't on the roster. Aside from Durant, the biggest names are Damian Lillard , Jayson Tatum , Draymond Green , Devin Booker and Khris Middleton .

Either way, getting knocked off twice in the lead-up to the Olympics will provide drama and a reason to watch. The women's national team should once again trounce to a gold. That will be enjoyable. But on the men's side, no, the world has not caught up on the hardwood with our best in basketball. But it's no longer a walkover; far from it.

The question used to be not whether or not the men would win, but by how many points. Now it's an intriguing question: How much danger is the United States men's team in to not win gold?

5. USA Swimming is stacked ... again

Swimming had always been a draw at the Summer Olympics, but Michael Phelps helped turn it into must-see television for Americans. The U.S. should perform well in Tokyo, and is expected to win more golds and the total medal count, which has been the case in every Summer Olympics since 1992. Phelps is the greatest swimmer in history and his teammate Ryan Lochte would easily rank in the top 10.

But their time is over. Here are the names to know (besides the aforementioned Ledecky):

• Simone Manuel : Won two golds and two silvers in 2016, and made history as the first Black woman to win a 100 meter gold medal. However, she failed to qualify for that event this time, so instead she'll swim in the sprint -- the 50 meter freestyle -- and look to add to her haul.
• Lily King : We need more trash-talking, unabashed swimmers. King is that. She'll try to repeat a gold medal-winning performance from 2016 in the 100 meter breaststroke. King will also swim in the 200 meter breaststroke and is likely to be on a relay team
• Regan Smith : Stanford's next great swimmer is competing in her first Olympics and is a clear threat to medal in both the 100 meter backstroke and the 200 butterfly
• Caeleb Dressel : Dressel is likely going to be the star of the men's squad. He is a freestyle monster, and he'll compete in three individual events (100 free, 100 fly, 50 free). He'll also be on the 4 x 100 free relay, potentially swimming anchor, and have two more medal opportunities in the 4 x 200 freestyle relay and the mixed 4 x 100 medley relay
• Michael Andrew : Ten years ago he was expected to be the next-best thing to Phelps by the time he made the Olympics. That didn't come to be, but Andrew has found his form and has a great shot to medal in the 100 breast, 200 IM and 50 free
• Chase Kalisz : Won silver in the 400 meter IM in 2016 and could do it again. He'll go in both the 200 meter IM and the 400. At 27, this is his moment to capitalize
• Kieran Smith : The talented swimmer out of the the University of Florida is the dark horse to emerge as a star in these Games. These won't be his last Olympics. He'll paddle in the 200 free, the 400 free and the 4 x 200 free relay

The youngest swimmer on the team is 15-year-old Katie Grimes. In total, ten teenagers are a part of the men's and women's teams. The rising star of this group is 18-year-old Torri Huske.

6. USWNT loses for first time in 44 soccer matches, seeks redemption

The United States women's national team is the most dominant female soccer enterprise in history, but in the event you forgot: The U.S. is not the reigning gold medal winner.

In 2016, a quarterfinal upset at the hands (feet?) of Sweden led to the U.S. failing to medal in women's soccer for the first time.

The big names who are back:

• Megan Rapinoe
• Carli Lloyd
• Alex Morgan

Every Olympian has their own special kind of motivation, but just about every game this team plays will be a national reason for rally. And yet, the early signs are not encouraging! The U.S. was sideswiped immediately, the victim of a 3-0 opening group stage loss against none other than -- drum roll -- Sweden. This is more than a wakeup call; it's a disturbing flashback to the stunning defeat in the 2016 Games. Two days before the opening ceremony begins, the pressure is already on.

7. The 17-year-old who could shine in men's track

Thirteen medalists in American track and field from the Rio Olympiad will compete in Tokyo. The most compelling person on the whole team was 12 the last time we had an Olympics. His name is Erriyon Knighton.

The second (or less) you break a record held by Usain Bolt, you become a story the world should know. And when you break two of Bolt's marks, then the hype finds a rocket. Knighton's done just that. His 20.11-second run in early June in the 200 meters bested Bolt's under-18 record from 18 years ago. At the Olympic trials, Knighton improved on his time with a 19.88 run … that he eased up on at the very end. That sprint was better than Bolt's record as an under-20-year-old from 2004. In the final, Knighton crossed in 19.84. Two world junior records.

Can he go even lower in Tokyo? 

Knighton won't turn 18 until January and, maybe, could be the face of men's track and field for the next decade. His events are the two most glamorous in the sport: the 100- and 200-meter dash. He took third in the men's 200 meters at the Olympic trials in June. According to USA Track and Field, Knighton is the youngest American male to compete in an Olympiad's track and field competition since 1964. Knighton's story is all the more incredible considering he did not compete in a major track competition until 2019, when he was 15 . 

The subplot to this is Knighton is coming on as the fresh young face, while it's Noah Lyles who has been in this position the past few years in the lead-up to his first Olympics. Lyles ran the fastest time (19.74) at June's trials, with Kenny Bednarek taking second, Knighton third. The 200 is Lyles' to lose, but Knighton's emergence makes for great theater during the second half of the Olympics' schedule. The last time an American male won a gold medal in the 200 meters? The 2004 Games. 

8. Sha'Carri Richardson's ban looms over women's track

It's not even fair to say that, years from now, we'll look back on Richardson's ban on competing in the 2021 Olympics as an outdated, unfair decision. Millions believe that already . Richardson, who would've been a favorite to win gold in the 100, was kept off the US roster due to a positive marijuana test that violated the rules . The story got so big, even President Biden commented on its unmerited nature.

Richardson deserved better, and hopefully the 2024 Games in Paris will be her glorious revenge tour. 

As for who is competing this year for the United States on the women's side, the ageless Allyson Felix is back for her fifth Olympics -- an unthinkable achievement for anyone who makes their living sprinting for a living. Felix, 35, will run in the 400 meters, making her the oldest American sprinter to compete in the event.

Another big-time performer is Sydney McLaughlin, who set a world record in the 400 meter hurdles at trials in June. She's the best at her event ... unless Dalilah Muhammad beats her. That duo is a lock for gold and silver, it seems.

When McLaughlin did this in June, she became the first woman in history to run the 400 hurdles in under 52 seconds.

. @GoSydGo sets the WORLD RECORD and is going to the #TokyoOlympics ! ⚡️ @usatf | #TrackFieldTrials21 pic.twitter.com/K0WYmiHiSn — #TokyoOlympics (@NBCOlympics) June 28, 2021

We've got more, including a neurobiology major from Harvard who is mastering in epidemiology. That's Gabby Thomas, who might as well represent what these Olympics are about more than any other American athlete competing. Her speciality is the 200 meters, and she'll have a great shot at taking gold there.

Another familiar name in women's track and field is Brittney Reese, who is competing in her fourth Olympics and specializes in long jump. She's taken gold and silver before. 

9. The next Jim Thorpe is competing in Tokyo

And that is JuVaughn Harrison. This is a relatively small story, but boy is it a special one. Harrison did something unique in modern athletics: he won the high jump AND the long jump in the U.S. trials. That hasn't happened since Jim Thorpe -- a man considered one of the five-or-so greatest American athletes of the 20th century -- did it in 1912. So that's a wow. Harrison will compete in both in Tokyo. 

Across men's and women's track and field there are 13 medal winners from the 2016 Games who are back, and six athletes who won 2019 word championship medals. The United States has a stacked roster on both sides and expects to win the gold and overall medal count, just as it has at every Olympiad since 1984.

10. New sports debuting in these Olympics

You're probably most comfortable and eager to watch the reliables: swimming, gymnastics, track and field and basketball. But for plenty, the appeal of the Olympics are the niche sports, the counterculture of the much lesser-heralded competitions that make the Olympics charming.

So, after a 13-year hiatus, baseball and softball are returning. Obviously, Major League Baseball season is ongoing, so the biggest stars in the sport will not be competing in the Olympics. 

As for the new sports, here are the ones making their Olympiad debuts:

• Skateboarding! 
• Sport climbing!

Surfing seems somewhat random; after all, you're dependent on the waves, brah. Karate is straight up awesome, and sport climbing means Olympians will compete in three disciplines and be judged on the aggregate of all speed climbing, lead climbing and bouldering. Should be fascinating.

The weirder the sports, the better the Olympics, I say. Can we bring back croquet, people? It was last seen in the Olympics in 1900. But four new sports is a welcomed addition to what will be the most intriguing, and controversial, Olympics -- perhaps ever.

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‘A Journalistic Test’: Covering a Restricted Tokyo Olympics

There will be less color and serendipity at an Olympic Games held during a pandemic. But unique challenges often make for good reporting.

By John Otis

Times Insider explains who we are and what we do, and delivers behind-the-scenes insights into how our journalism comes together.

Times journalists attending the Olympics do much more than break down the play-by-plays and report the winners of each event. They tap into the local color of the host city, get behind the scenes of the vast operation and explore the lives of the athletes in intimate and organic ways.

“One of the joys of reporting on the Olympics is the randomness, the serendipity that comes from being at an event with representatives from 200 countries,” said Ken Belson, a sports reporter who is one of more than 30 people in Japan to cover the Tokyo Games for The Times.

Finding those scenes and moments will be much more difficult at these Olympics, where competition began this week.

Coronavirus cases are rising, and Tokyo remains under a state of emergency for the duration of the Games. Several Olympics personnel and athletes have recently tested positive. Anxiety over the Games was already high; polls have shown that a majority of Japanese citizens believe the Olympics should have been canceled.

“How they pull this off, the effect it has, if any, on the athletes and events will be pretty dynamic to see,” said Randy Archibold, The Times’s sports editor.

Mr. Archibold is also in Japan, where he will oversee the desk’s broad report. That will include in-depth features, spot reporting in a daily briefing online and a more robust presence in print.

Heavy restrictions have been put in place by the Tokyo organizing committee and the Japanese government. Daily testing is mandated for all visitors. Athletes won’t be wandering freely, and many are leaving after they compete. There are no international spectators , and just a few weeks ago, Japanese spectators were barred as well.

Some of these protocols will interfere with basic news gathering efforts. Capacity at every event is limited, and reporters are prohibited from conducting interviews outside press areas and from riding public transportation.

These are the 11th Olympic Games that the reporter Juliet Macur is covering. Past events brought unique stresses, complications and demands, she said, but nothing quite compares to the loss of unfettered mobility she faces now.

“Every Olympics has had its moment where you’re holding your breath, thinking, What’s going to happen? and it always works out,” Ms. Macur said. “This is obviously the nth degree of that.”

Although most events are expected to be conducted under conditions that are as normal as possible, gone are the raucous arena crowds , vibrant street celebrations and hordes of flag-waving fans parading through the host city.

“It will be a journalistic test for us to figure out how to make things as vivid as possible when we don’t have the great access that we’re used to or the party atmosphere that makes the Olympics what it is,” Ms. Macur said.

For Mr. Belson, the cultural loss is especially disappointing. He lived for 12 years in Tokyo, where he wrote about business in Japan for several publications, including The Times, before returning to New York in 2004. He began preparing for the Games three years ago.

“I was very much looking forward to telling the Japan story to our readers through my experiences there,” Mr. Belson said. “Unfortunately, that will be hampered.”

Andrew Keh is covering his third Olympics. As do most reporters, he enjoys mining the fringes for offbeat stories. At the 2018 Winter Games in Pyeongchang, South Korea, Mr. Keh chronicled his canvassing of the local cuisine. In Rio in 2016, he wrote about the athletes lamenting changes made to the official table tennis ball. His colleague John Branch profiled Zamboni drivers in Pyeongchang. At the London Games in 2012, Mr. Belson dove into the swap meet-style subculture of Olympic pin trading .

“The reason I always liked the Olympics is just the sheer number of athletes that are there,” Mr. Keh said. “Each one representing a potential conversation, a potential seed of a story, a potential opportunity to learn something.”

Mr. Keh described the Tokyo Games as “a great situation for a reporter.” He said the challenge of working in strange, obstructing circumstances should produce interesting journalism. There has never been an Olympics like this.

It’s why The Times recently sent to Japan around the same number of reporters, editors and multimedia journalists who have worked at previous Games. That doesn’t include the International desk’s Tokyo bureau, where Motoko Rich, the bureau chief, has been reporting on the lead-up to the Games, or the Times newsroom in Seoul.

Tokyo 2020 was already pushed back a year. Critics still question the wisdom of staging two weeks of events involving thousands of athletes, officials and volunteers where the coronavirus rate is rising. No matter what happens, there will still be important stories to report.

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News. Sports. Arts & Entertainment. Politics

How to Write an Engaging Sports Article | Tips for College Students

October 18, 2021 By Joseph-Connolly Leave a Comment

Have you been asked to create a sports article for your academic project? Don’t you ask someone to buy essay to craft an academic project for you? For many aspiring and seasoned journalists and writers, sporting events offer a productive source of material for their craft. Note that news writing style is just as crucial for sports reporting as business stories or general news.  After a lot of “ write my essay ” requests, you can learn how to write such papers yourself.

However, the benefit of sports writing is that writers are allowed more wiggle room regarding the words they can use in their articles. Unlike in crime writing, where authors are discouraged from using adverbs and adjectives, sports pieces allow descriptive writing. 

Journalistic material can appear from news on recent sporting events or feature articles to profile sports personnel. This article summarizes how students can create exceptional sports articles that appeal to sports fans and other readers. 

• Read and Understand the Instructions 

The starting point of any academic assignment is reading and understanding the instructions. Each task will come with specific directions that indicate what the professor wants you to accomplish. 

Take time to read through the guidelines, making sure that everything is clear before you start writing. For example, what is the project question, and how long should the paper be? Make sure that your report follows what is indicated in the prompt. If you choose to look for someone to help draft your article, check out a top EssayWriter Review . 

• Start With a Captivating Hook 

When it comes to sports news articles, how you start is critical. A good paper starts with an exciting lead paragraph created to grab the attention of readers. It would help if you created a fantastic hook at the start of your article while also revealing the genre of the writing to your audience. 

When creating a feature article on a specific player, you could consider opening with a sentence revealing some interesting but unique information about the athlete. You could also lead with the player’s personality or critical accomplishments. Another option would be to lead with some interesting quotes about your subject. 

Unlike features, news articles tend to use an inverted pyramid structure of writing. In this sense, the article starts by informing the readers of the results of the sporting events. So, for instance, if you report on a football game, it may be ideal to start with who won. 

You can then use the subsequent paragraphs to provide key highlights and additional information. Readers want to know the results of the sporting event from the beginning. If you find custom writing frustrating, you can find professional help on platforms like Topstudywriter.com . 

• Understand Your Audience and Find the Story in the Event 

Although most of your readers will be sports fans, a good report offers captivating content that can draw in other readers. So, before you start writing, plan well and find a narrative that will appeal to your readers’ emotions. 

For instance, if asked to profile a team that is reeling from a loss after losing an important player, then the story for your article may be about the team struggling to find a new identity for itself. Thus, news articles ought to use vivid details to highlight the most critical moments of the event. 

Although some of your readers may already be familiar with some elements of the event, you should still offer a clear description. In addition, give an emotional component to your writing, making sure to grab your audience’s interests. 

• Take Advantage of Direct Quotes 

Sports writing benefits extensively from interviews with coaches and players. In other words, a well-written news article will contain accurately reported quotes. During your interviews, seek detailed answers as leadings questions, such as those that start with why. Work on building rapport and trust with your interviewee to get candid answers to your questions. 

• Avoid Clichés in Your Writing

In any paper that you are asked to write at college, clarity is crucial. However, using clichés for your news article rather than clear language can drain your work of its allure, making readers disinterested in the content. 

Rather than using action words that readers are used to encountering in similar articles, focus on vividly highlighting the activity in the sporting event. The point here is that a well-written sports article is created in plain language without much jargon. 

Writing an impeccable sports news article can be simple if you follow the tips and techniques highlighted in this article. Make sure to edit and proofread your work before submitting it. 

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How to Write a Sports Article

Sports writing can take the form of a news piece that reports on a recent game or a feature article that profiles a team or player. By appealing to both sports fans and other readers, sports articles capture emotions and action through interviews and descriptions while also presenting objective statistics about the subject. Regardless of the topic, good sports writing combines strong research with vivid detail to bring the personalities and drama of athletics to life.

Craft an Eyecatching Opening

Your lead paragraph should grab the audience's attention and reveal the article's genre to readers. If you're writing a feature article about a team or player, you might open with a sentence that reveals something about the subject's accomplishments or personality. For example, you can give a physical description of the person, use a quote from the coach or player or paint a picture of what it's like to watch the team play. By contrast, a news article about a sporting event might use the inverted pyramid structure, where the piece opens by telling readers who won the game, then gives highlights and details in subsequent paragraphs.

Find the Story

While the majority of your readers probably will be sports fans, a good sports article offers a human interest link that will draw in other readers as well. Look for a narrative that will appeal to readers' emotions. If the team you're profiling is experiencing their first season after the loss of a star player, for example, the story might be how they're forging a new identity for themselves. Similarly, a news article about a game might use vivid detail to describe the most significant moments. Although readers may know key pieces of information, such as who won and why the star player left, clear description and emotion will nonetheless hook readers' interests.

Use Direct Quotes

Some of the most important research you'll do for your sports article will be the interviews you conduct with the players and coaches. Poignant, well-placed quotes from a variety of sources can create a fuller, richer portrait of the team and illustrate their personalities for readers. To gain specific, detailed responses rather than brief answers, ask your subject questions that begin or end with "why," such as why the coach called a particular play, or why he believes his team is better than last season. Building trust and rapport with your interview subjects also is vital to gaining honest responses. Try holding the interview in a quiet place where you can have a one-on-one conversation rather than around other players or coaches.

Avoid Cliches

Using cliche expressions instead of original, vivid language can drain a powerful sports story of its energy and lose readers' interests. Rather than resorting to tired expressions like "gave it their all, "blazing speed" and words like "athleticism," come up with fresh ways to showcase the team's perseverance and skill. The use of certain verbs also can be cliche in sports writing, such as "slam-dunk" for basketball and "scored" for soccer. Instead of using the action words readers expect, bring new life to your piece by finding verbs that vividly capture the game's activity.

Give Statistics

While audiences read sports articles for the inside story behind a game or the details of a player's life, they'll also expect concrete data about their favorite teams' scores and records. If you're writing a feature article about a soccer player, for example, you'll want to present the average number of goals he scores per game, while a recap of a track meet might include the winners as well as their racing times. At the same time, avoid using complex jargon related to a particular sport that might confuse readers who aren't well-versed in its vocabulary. Be as specific as possible while still making the information accessible to all readers.

• New York Times Campus Weblines: Writing Sports Articles
• The Sports Writing Handbook; Thomas Fensch

Kori Morgan holds a Bachelor of Arts in professional writing and a Master of Fine Arts in creative writing and has been crafting online and print educational materials since 2006. She taught creative writing and composition at West Virginia University and the University of Akron and her fiction, poetry and essays have appeared in numerous literary journals.

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Choosing Your Topic

The topic of sports can be an excellent way to examine a number of issues affecting our society today. The following resources will help you think about how to focus your research and decide what you ultimately want to write about. They will also help provide a basic understanding on a variety of topics related to sports. This will be helpful whether you're writing a newspaper article or a research paper.

• Sports Culture: An A-Z Guide by Ernest Cashmore Call Number: Knight Library Reference (GV706.5 .C383 2000) Publication Date: 2000 Covers a variety of issues, figures, events, and more related to the world of sports.
• Sports Around the World: History, Culture, and Practice by John Nauright and Charles Parrish Call Number: Knight Library Documents Reference (GV706.8 .S664 2012) Publication Date: 2012 This four-volume work thoroughly examines a number of sports from around the world, as well as important world-wide sporting events such as the Olympics.
• Sports in America from Colonial Times to the Twenty-First Century: An Encyclopedia by Steven A. Riess Call Number: Knight Library (GV583 .S68588 2011) Publication Date: 2011 Focusing on sports in America, this encyclopedia examines the different sports figures and events that have impacted American culture.
• International Encyclopedia of Women and Sports by Karen Christensen, Allen Guttmann, and Gertrud Pfister Call Number: Knight Library Reference GV709 .I58 2001 Publication Date: 2001 This encyclopedia covers the world of women in sports from an international perspective, including biographical information, national profiles, and a look at over 170 sports.
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How Digital Media Has Changed Sports Journalism

The reach and expectations of sports journalism have expanded in recent years. Previous generations expected box scores and highlights from their newspapers, radio shows, and TV stations. Sports reporting now tells stories at the intersection of society and athletics using a wide variety of media.

St. Bonaventure University journalism alumnus and ESPN NBA insider Adrian Wojnarowski has seen sports journalism change during his decades-long career. The popular host of The Woj Pod explains what separates successful writers and editors from the competition in today’s competitive landscape:

“For young reporters, especially in this age and into the future, the ability to give people information they can’t get anywhere else, to give something that’s unique and different, that’s what will separate you. I don’t know that there’s anything more important than that right now.”

This critical moment in sports journalism is driven by changing consumer habits, technology, and social movements. We can look at the past 40 years of sports coverage to see how seasonal pastimes turned into year-round passions for millions of people.

Where did today’s sports journalism come from?

Sports reporting used to be a slow process with box scores in newspapers the lone data source for fans. The 24-hour news cycle helps today’s fans learn about breaking news, highlights, and game results in an instant. The first broadcast of ESPN in 1979 facilitated this evolution.

ESPN’s signature program Sportscenter went beyond the scores with human interest stories and colorful presentation. Hosts like Chris Berman, Dan Patrick, and Stuart Scott infused their personalities into nightly highlights. The network grew into a giant in the 1990s due to this innovative approach to sports reporting.

Competitors like Turner Sports in 1990 and CNN/SI in 1996 followed the ESPN template as cable became an important venue for sports. Regional sports networks soon followed and provided localized coverage for diehard fans. The growing accessibility of the Internet created more direct connections between fans and sports writers.

Personalities and Platforms in 21st Century Sports Reporting

Sports blogs became a staple of fandom in the early 21st century. Journalists and avid fans alike created their own outlets on everything from the NBA Draft to soccer kit fashion. The emergence of Bill Simmons as a force in sports journalism shows the early power of blogs.

Simmons went from the writer of a Boston sports blog to a 14-year career at ESPN. His tenure with the network included a successful podcast and a long-form narrative website called Grantland. Simmons parlayed his time with the network into a contract with HBO, a substantial social media following, and a media venture called The Ringer .

This evolution shows how blogs have given way to podcasts and social media as vital resources for fans. Sports writers like Peter King and Adrian Wojnarowski have translated traditional journalism into popular Twitter accounts. There have always been famed writers in the sports world but modern technology amplifies their message beyond regional audiences.

Sports Journalism Reflects Social Change

Sports editors aren’t just looking for stat lines and game reports from their writers. The all-encompassing nature of sports means that athletes reflect changing values and social views. Modern sports reporting recognizes athletes, coaches, and others as human actors rather than interchangeable parts.

In recent years, athletes have taken public stances on a variety of issues. The following events sparked debate on social media and in comment sections of sports stories:

• San Francisco 49ers player Colin Kaepernick protested police violence by kneeling during the national anthem in 2016
• The U.S. Women’s National Soccer Team wore their warmups inside out to protest pay inequality in 2020
• The Milwaukee Bucks walked off the court to protest the police shooting of Jacob Blake in 2020

ESPN conducted a poll of sports fans to gauge their support for athletes taking stands on social issues. Seventy-one percent of respondents expressed support with 44% strongly supporting athletes making their voices heard. Sports media outlets that don’t address athlete views on today’s issues aren’t serving audience needs.

How do fans consume sports reporting?

Sports media outlets and journalists need to be responsive to the needs of their audiences. Casual fans and diehards alike have grown accustomed to new innovations in their favorite sports. Multiple generations of Green Bay Packers, New York Knicks, or Manchester United fans might consume sports journalism differently.

Deloitte published a report on year-round engagement of fans by sports leagues. This report also offers glimpses into how digital media outlets reach their audiences outside of game coverage. The main conclusion of this report is that sports businesses need fan engagement as much in the offseason as during the regular season.

No Offseason for Sports Journalism

The average length of the offseason for the major professional leagues ranges from 118 days for the NHL to 215 days for the NFL. Around-the-clock access to sports news and social media has raised expectations of full-year coverage. The question for sports writers and sports editors is how to fill months without games, transactions, or drafts.

Deloitte found that 95% of all respondents wanted to interact with their favorite leagues and teams throughout the year. Sixty-five percent expected at least monthly content from teams. Sports reporting fills that gap with timely tweets, player interviews, and other content.

Choosing the Right Medium for Sports Reporting

There isn’t a one-size-fits-all approach to sports journalism. Sports fans use multiple media outlets for specific purposes rather than committing to single sources of coverage. Website bookmarks and social media accounts allow for easy access to dozens of sports writers.

This trend in sports news consumption means fans have varying expectations for different news types. For example, Deloitte found the following preferences by respondents for rapid updates:

• Sports websites
• Social media
• Mobile apps
• Sports radio
• Print journalism

Smartphones provide access to the most preferred outlets for sports fans. A Burst Media report found 77.3% of respondents used smartphones or tablets to augment their live sports viewing. This survey also discovered 40.9% of participants regularly watched live sports using these devices.

Successful writers and editors must be tuned into breaking news and quick hits throughout the year. The biggest audiences for year-round updates are found in digital media rather than traditional outlets. Writers need to craft unique stories consumable on multiple devices that stand apart from their competitors.

What are essential skills in the sports journalism field?

There is a great deal of competition for the attention of sports fans. Low barriers to entry mean that amateur bloggers and social media experts can drown out run-of-the-mill sports reporting. Leading journalists have dynamic skills that translate across sports leagues and media types.

The foundations of sports journalism are interviewing, reporting, and writing skills. Writers and editors need to use journalistic ethics and standards as their compasses in this changing field. These evergreen attributes are found in the most successful journalists and outlets in the sports world.

Cutting through the noise of digital sports media requires a unique voice. Sports journalism does not require a playing career or certain connections; it needs writers who connect with new readers. Sports communication expert Michael Butterworth makes the following argument for distinctive voices:

“What distinguishes competent work from important work is the ability to contextualize the choices that we make, and the understanding of the historical background, the recognition of critical identity positions that are at stake, being able to make those kinds of interpretations.”

Digital media outlets often look for exceptional writers from diverse geographical, racial, and cultural backgrounds. A fluency in sports language and a previously unexpressed perspective add something unique to stories about long-popular sports.

Data Analysis and Visualization

Every sports writer needs the investigative skills that have served journalists well for decades. Sports stories often intersect with legal and business issues that require database research and interviews with experts. In recent years, data analytics and visualization have joined investigative skills as must-haves for sports journalists.

Sports executives and data scientists convene every year for the MIT Sloan Sports Analytics Conference. Fantasy sports have reinforced this data fervor as journalists often place game coverage in this context. The next generation of writers and editors need to know how to frame sports using underlying data.

Sports-specific tools like PECOTA for baseball and Opta for soccer provide valuable data to journalists. Visualization platforms like Tableau turn raw statistics into compelling graphics for stories. Skilled journalists also know how to discern meaningful stats from the noise produced by endless data streams.

Multimedia Talent

The rise in smartphone use among sports fans has fundamentally changed journalism. Social media prowess is no longer a bonus; it is an essential skill. Sports writers who want to stay current need to know how to produce audio and video content.

Journalists have to remain open to new platforms and tools in their efforts to engage growing audiences. An innovative writer or editor should consider the following as part of their multimedia work:

• Conducting interviews with players while playing video games on Twitch
• Refining long-form work by speaking with experts on podcasts
• Creating Substack newsletters that complement other reporting work

Writers who can produce their own multimedia content are in high demand by digital outlets. These skills allow a journalist to reach demographics that might not read blog posts or niche website stories. A sports journalist with multimedia expertise creates audiences that are essential to outlets.

What is the job outlook for sports journalism?

Newcomers to sports journalism jobs can earn above-average salaries from the start. PayScale places the average salary for a sports journalist at $48,605. This estimate places the top 10% of earners at an average of $107,000.

The future of sports reporting depends as much on promising startups as major broadcasters or corporate giants. National sports networks have the resources to provide in-depth coverage for popular sports and cutting-edge broadcasting techniques. Writers and editors in these jobs are often given latitude to pursue stories that capture the current cultural moment.

The Athletic provides a model for journalistic startups that fill the gaps left by national broadcasters. Founded in 2016, the founders of the company wrote the following about its mission:

“We pay our writers well and rely on subscriptions, not ad revenue, to support our business. We’ve removed ads, pop-ups, and auto-play videos, giving subscribers a vastly better reading experience. And we’ve said goodbye to click-bait, allowing the nation’s best sports writers to focus on producing high-quality, substantive coverage for The Athletic , without the pressure of generating “clicks.”

As importantly, the company actively recruits writers in markets and sports that aren’t served by local newspapers. The Athletic and other subscription-based digital outlets provide promising futures to journalists who reach underserved sports fans.

Enterprising sports journalists can turn their unique voices and social media followings into new ventures. For example, the subscription platform Patreon offers a means for writers to reach devoted audiences while earning income. Writers and editors can build the next The Ringer or The Athletic by proving the high value of their work over time.

How do you become a sports reporter?

Breaking into sports journalism requires a unique voice, a passion for sports, and a modern skillset. A graduate degree in journalism hones those attributes and prepares a writer or editor for the industry’s next frontier. St. Bonaventure University’s Master of Arts in Sports Journalism combines the convenience of online education with advanced skill-building.

The program curriculum was designed in consultation with an alumni board of notable journalists. MA candidates learn how to write compelling stories for the 21st century during courses like:

• The Art of the Sports Interview
• Social Media Storytelling
• Digital Reporting

Emerging writers and editors compete in the sports journalism field by learning from the best. St. Bonaventure University places at the top of national rankings every year. U.S. News & World Report’s 2021 rankings placed the school:

• No. 6 in Best Value Schools
• No. 9 in Best Colleges for Veterans
• No. 19 in Regional Universities North

Graduates of St. Bonaventure University stand apart from competitors thanks to value-based education. The school’s Franciscan roots are infused through every course and interaction. Sports journalism graduates leave the university with a strong sense of moral and ethical responsibility to the public.

Build the skills to succeed in today’s sports journalism market with an online MA in Sports Journalism.

Read more of SBU online's top blogs below:

1. 10 Journalism Skills Every Modern Journalist Needs to Have

2. The Digital Evolution of Sports Journalism: Q&A with Michael Vaccaro (@MikeVacc)

3. Coping With Isolation: 25 Strategies for Optimizing Mental Health

4. Successful Online Student: 20 Tips for Hitting Your Goals

5. Jandoli School of Communication Earns Prestigious Accreditation

*Please note that information contained in this blog post may be subject to change per program or regulatory requirements.

Whether you have a simple question or need advice to determine if this program is right for you, our knowledgeable advisors are here to help. They can chat with you on your schedule and guide you through the entire admissions process, so you can feel confident moving forward with your online St. Bonaventure University program.

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How to Write a Newspaper Article

Last Updated: March 16, 2023 Fact Checked

This article was co-authored by Gerald Posner . Gerald Posner is an Author & Journalist based in Miami, Florida. With over 35 years of experience, he specializes in investigative journalism, nonfiction books, and editorials. He holds a law degree from UC College of the Law, San Francisco, and a BA in Political Science from the University of California-Berkeley. He’s the author of thirteen books, including several New York Times bestsellers, the winner of the Florida Book Award for General Nonfiction, and has been a finalist for the Pulitzer Prize in History. He was also shortlisted for the Best Business Book of 2020 by the Society for Advancing Business Editing and Writing. There are 11 references cited in this article, which can be found at the bottom of the page. This article has been fact-checked, ensuring the accuracy of any cited facts and confirming the authority of its sources. This article has been viewed 324,135 times.

A newspaper article should provide an objective, factual account of an event, person, or place. Most newspaper articles are read quickly or skimmed by the reader, so the most important information should always appear first, followed by descriptive content that rounds out the story. By conducting research and following the correct organizational structure, you can create an informative newspaper article in no time.

Sample Articles

Conducting Interviews and Research

• Your sources should be experts in the field your article is focusing on, such as a certified professional, a professor, or an academic. You can use sources that have extensive experience or background in a field that relates to your article.
• Sources like a witness to an event can also be useful, especially if they have first-hand experience of the topic you are covering.

• You may need to conduct more than 1 interview with your sources, especially if they are a major source for the article. You can also send follow-up questions to your sources as needed.
• You will need to transcribe your interviews by typing them up to ensure you quote your sources correctly. Having transcriptions will also make fact checking your article and backing up your sources much easier.

• Make sure you cite the information properly in your article by noting the name or organization that provided the information. You should have credible sources to back up any claims or arguments made in the article.

• If you are writing the newspaper article for an editor, they may require you to provide a list of your sources for the article to show you have fact checked your work.

Structuring the Article

• For example, you may create a headline like, “Teen Girl Missing in Okotoks” or “Congress Stalls on Family Planning Bill.”
• In some cases, it may be easier to save the headline for last, after you have written the article, so you know what the focus of the article is and can sum it up clearly.

• For example, you may write a lead like, "An outbreak of flu in San Francisco has led to 3 elementary school closings this week, according to school officials." Or, "A missing girl originally from Okotoks was found Monday in an abandoned cabin in the Minnetonka area, according to local police."

• For example, you may write, “10-12 students have been diagnosed with the flu and health officials fear it could continue to spread if it is not contained.”

• For example, you may write, “The teen girl was reported missing on Friday afternoon by her mother after she did not come home from a study date at a friend’s house. She is the second girl to be reported missing in the past 2 weeks from the Okotoks area.”

• For example, you may write, “‘The girl is shaken, but does not appear to have any serious injuries,’ stated local Police Chief Wilborn.” Or you may write, “According to a statement by school officials, ‘The shutdown will prevent the flu from spreading further and ensure the safety of our students.’”
• Avoid using long quotes or more than 4 quotes in the article, as the reader may get confused or lost if there are too many quotations.

• For example, you may write, “The girl’s mother expressed relief for her daughter and concern about her community, noting, ‘I just hope no other girls go missing in this area.’”
• Or you may write, “Local health officials are urging parents to check the municipal health and wellness website, www.hw.org, for updates on when schools are able to reopen.”

Creating the Appropriate Voice and Tone

• For example, rather than write, “The missing girl’s mother thought it had to do with school,” you may write, “The missing girl’s mother thought bullying at school may have caused her daughter’s absences.”

• For example, rather than write, “A press conference will be held by local police tomorrow to address the missing girls and the public’s concerns,” you may write, “Local police will address the missing girls and the public’s concerns in a press conference tomorrow.”

• For example, if you're writing about two political candidates running against each other in an election, present both candidates in an equal light, rather than giving extra details about 1 candidate.
• If you're writing an op-ed piece, it's okay to mix some of your opinions with the facts.

Polishing the Article

• Reading the article aloud can also help you catch any spelling, grammar, or punctuation errors.

• For example, you may ask others questions like, “Were you able to understand what happened, based on the information in the article?” “Was the language clear and easy to follow?” “Was the article well supported with sources and quotes?”

• If you are writing the newspaper article for a class, make sure it falls within the prescribed word limit for the assignment.

Expert Q&A

Video . By using this service, some information may be shared with YouTube.

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Expert Interview

Thanks for reading our article! If you'd like to learn more about writing as a career, check out our in-depth interview with Gerald Posner .

• ↑ https://guides.lib.vt.edu/researchmethods/interviews
• ↑ https://www.csus.edu/indiv/o/obriene/art116/readings/guide%20for%20conducting%20interviews.pdf
• ↑ https://www.pewresearch.org/internet/2013/01/22/part-4-what-people-want-from-their-libraries/
• ↑ https://settlement.org/ontario/daily-life/communication/ethnic-and-cultural-media/what-is-fake-news-and-how-to-stop-spreading-misinformation/
• ↑ https://www.viasport.ca/communications-toolkit/module-4-how-write-engaging-sports-article
• ↑ https://owl.purdue.edu/owl/subject_specific_writing/journalism_and_journalistic_writing/writing_leads.html
• ↑ https://owl.english.purdue.edu/owl/resource/735/05/
• ↑ https://www.lib.sfu.ca/about/branches-depts/slc/writing/sources/quoting
• ↑ https://lib.trinity.edu/in-text-citation-and-notes//
• ↑ https://www.csus.edu/campus-safety/police-department/_internal/_documents/rwm.pdf
• ↑ https://www2.ed.gov/rschstat/eval/tech/evidence-based-practices/finalreport.pdf

About This Article

To write a newspaper article, gather all of your sources and verify any facts or sources you plan to use. Write an opening sentence that tells the readers the most essential details of the story. Write in third person, active voice, and maintain an authoritative tone throughout the article. Keep in mind the questions “Who,” “What,” “Where,” “When,” “Why,” and “How” when you’re writing your story, and try to answer as many of them as you can. When you’re finished writing the article, craft a short, engaging headline that tells readers what the article is about. To learn how reading your article out loud can help you proofread it, keep reading! Did this summary help you? Yes No

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How to wrote sport stories

Some people think that us sports writers somewhat rely on the same things. It’s all just reviewing sports matches, posing questions about athletes and ranting about what our favourite teams are doing wrong (which as an Everton fan I know all too well). 

However, sport is so much more than that. It’s a huge part of British culture. Any major category of writing can be associated with the sporting world. It’s an economic powerhouse. You could talk about some of the biggest sports fashion faux pas (which believe me, there are a lot of). We’ve got Marcus Rashford making huge waves in the world of politics. We’ve had football songs make it to No.1 music lists around the world, no more recent than 2018 when “3 Lions On A Shirt” was in everyone’s head. As a Head of Sport at Newcastle University’s paper I’m passionate about the world of sport writing. I want to show you how something that you might view as a niche can actually give way to some of the most impactful journalism you’ll ever produce.

What kind of articles can one write for sport?

Debate/Opinion 

These definitely give way to some of the more hard hitting and impactful pieces I’ve had the pleasure of reading over the last 3 years. If you think you’ve got a hugely unpopular opinion you’d like to share, or if you want to stir the pot with a difficult question, these are the ones for you. They’re often more personal, rather biased, and give way for some great persuasive writing. It’s important to back up the majority of your claims with some form of evidence. Stats and figures are always a good way to persuade readers!

When trying to formulate a potential article, I like to think of some of the queries that come to mind when watching sport. For example, when we see the 100th VAR blunder while watching football, we have to question whether it’s killing the sport we all know and love.

And if you’re not keen on sports, these are the best ways to branch out into sports writing. Considering why you don’t like sports and the things that make it so is, in itself, a pretty interesting article topic! Match Reviews These are perhaps one of the greatest ways to develop your skills as a sports journalist. If you’re at University, chances are at some level you have sports teams that play on a regular basis. It’s critical that you gain a great relationship with these clubs, and more often than not, just as you might want to go out to watch them, they’d love to have their games reviewed in a print newspaper. Sure, the quality is hardly that of what you might see on TV, but grass-roots and local sports are some of the grittiest competitions that you’ll get to see with your very own eyes. You can discuss the atmosphere of the game, as well as giving your readers a run down of the events as they come through. Consider some of the stand out moments of the game. And be sure to take lots of photos. Not only is this a great way to expand your CV from journalist to photographer, and I’m sure the team would love to see your fantastic photos, but they’ll also provide your readers with a key insight to the visual aspects of the games. Very important in helping form as clear a review as possible. 

However, if you’re lucky, you may be able to interview some sporting legends… Interviews Interviews are the bread and butter of world sports journalism. Every sports media outlet you see is built on the basis of interviews. Whether this is Gary Neville and Jamie Carragher on Sky Sports, Gary Lineker over at BT, or the BBC hosting Match Of The Day every single week, interviews are not only guaranteed, but they’re the fabric that holds the show together. So, if you’re given the chance to speak to a sporting star, there are a few key things to consider. Be sure to do your research. The worst thing an interviewee could consider is that you don’t know what you’re talking about. Be sure to stay calm, clear, and truly LISTEN to their response. Perhaps most importantly, think of questions which will spark engaging and reader-friendly answers. Don’t just stick to the game, consider how the future will be impacted by it. Tips for sports writing

• Read as many articles as you can. This is a great tip for any budding new journalists. The best way to improve your own writing is to see what other people are doing, to learn of their methods and hopefully be inspired in your own work.
• Don’t be afraid to think outside the box. After a big football game there’s going to be hundreds of articles talking about it, but maybe there’s a certain angle you could discuss which others might not think of. Think of the headline you’d see scrolling through your Twitter feed and think: “I want to read that!”
• Try not to generalise too much. This might seem like some anti-advice, as obviously the broader you are in your writing the more readers you’re reaching. However, if there are a select few sports that you’re a massive fan of, and want to write content on, then reach for the stars. Sometimes finding your niche can give way to exciting experiences in the world of sports journalism.
• Talk to other sports journalists/enthusiasts you find online. Whether they’re students, amateurs or industry titans, the community out there is extremely supportive. Make sure to market yourself openly as a fan of certain sports, and be sure to tweet regularly to keep your connections growing, as this will ensure you’re engaging with interesting and up-to-date news to make your stories standout. 

Great student outlets with some stellar sports articles I wouldn’t be doing my job as Head of Sport at The Courier (Newcastle Universities newspaper), if I didn’t give our section a shout-out. You can check us out here: http://www.thecourieronline.co.uk/category/sport/sport-features/ Here are a few other Universities that offer some fantastic and engaging sport related content! Forge Sport: http://forgetoday.com/sport/

The Mancunian : https://mancunion.com/category/sport/

The Gryphon : https://www.thegryphon.co.uk/category/sport/

SCAN: https://scan.lancastersu.co.uk/category/sport/

For those of you feeling unsure about sports writing…

First of all, congratulations on deciding that you want to give it a go! If you haven’t before, I hope that this guide has exposed you to how broad the world of sport really is. It isn’t as narrow as just talking about the footy, sport is a world-wide powerhouse and has it’s ties in every major journalism category one could think of. However, if you want to start writing but are unsure if it’s up to scratch, which is a completely understandable feeling that every new writer gets, then my email is completely open. My email is a non-judgmental safe space where I can provide in-depth feedback on how to really hone in on your ability as a writer, and provide some great insights.

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How do sports journalists find and report the news?

In the third of our special series on sports journalism, we focus on the best ways to find and report sports news - from nurturing your sources to writing news stories

The most important thing a sports journalist does is find and report news stories. You can’t do that without a solid network of sources.

Sources are as important for sports journalists as they are in any other field of journalism. Sources can range from athletes, coaches and agents to anyone else active in the sports industry such as lawyers and analysts. These are all sources from whom sports journalists can source ideas for stories, background information and even gossip. 

Part 1: Sports journalism is no 'easy life'

Part 2: How to get started in sports journalism

AJMI Sports Journalism Guidebook

Get to know the people managing and working at Olympic or sports federations, even those involved in parliamentary affairs or local councils. Other places to get involved are fan clubs, associations, veteran associations, referees’ associations, among others. 

All these are sources that help you hear news first or find out information that could potentially be the basis for a news piece.

Building connections

To build strong connections with sources, meet them face to face. The first step is to attend training sessions and matches at sports clubs. Here, you will meet officials, athletes, other correspondents and VIP figures - often many times over and in a relaxed atmosphere, since more formal occasions necessitate protocols that do not always allow for a smooth interview. By taking this approach, you will form useful connections. 

Don’t forget social media, especially the official pages of sports leagues and associations, Olympic associations, athletes and others. These can often provide information that will form the basis of good stories. 

Ways to build a network of sources:

1. Attend training sessions and matches at the sports clubs you cover to meet and follow up with your contacts in the stadiums. 

2. Find out where teams will be based during major tournaments. For example, Qatar University is hosting the Argentina team during the 2022 World Cup in Qatar. Being present there will provide you with multiple sources as well as opportunities for interviews and news stories. 

3. Respect the privacy of your sources. Don’t publish information they don’t want you to publish unless you want to run the risk of losing them as a source.

4. Being professional and abiding by the ethics of journalism will earn you trust from your sources. If they believe you are reliable and trustworthy, they will give you exclusive information when the time comes. 

5. Make use of general sources. These include agencies, players’ websites, clubs and associations, as well as official accounts on social media, and other agency pages and fans’ associations, 

6. Keep up with other media outlets - especially your main rivals. This is very important to ensure you are following all lines of inquiry. 

7. Make use of raw information from open sources. There are networks specialising in data journalism relating to different sports, which will provide you with a large number of major numbers and statistics.

Work closely with photographers

Accompanying sports photographers is one of the easiest and most efficient ways to come up with new story ideas. Because of the nature of their work, sports photographers get close to the action and have the ability to capture details that an editorial journalist may not be able to spot. Sports photographers are also close enough to catch the sounds coming from the cameramen, thus they can provide you with many stories. 

5 tips for working alongside photographers

• Stay in direct communication: This will ensure you work quickly and efficiently and get the news as it happens. Use messaging apps such as WhatsApp, Messenger or others. 
• Stay alert: The presence of photographers on the front line of action means they get the details you won’t catch on the sidelines. For example, a photographer may hear what an athlete says when storming out angrily after the coach’s decision to replace them, in addition to many other important details. 
• Get story ideas from images: Scrutinising photos can reveal important details unnoticed by other reporters. When the semi-final between Cameroon and Egypt took place at the Africa Cup of Nations in Cameroon went to penalties, a photograph taken revealed the water bottle of Egypt’s goalkeeper Mohammed Abo Gabal plastered with white stickers. When the journalists scrutinised the photos, they found that the stickers displayed details about each Cameroonian player’s likely shooting tactics. It made for a great story. 
• Prepare a list of specific footage demands: Ask the photographer to head to specific places, or to take a picture from a certain angle to serve the narrative of your planned story.
• Find new sources: Having a photographer on the field, close to the athletes and managers means they have the ability to directly communicate with them. This may enable you to hold exclusive interviews outside the stadium and secure a network of connections that serves you in any future stories.

Writing sports articles

Producing a great sports article requires sharp observation, sensitivity and excellent narrative skills. One French journalist who was passionate about athletics closely studied the career of the Moroccan World and Olympic champion middle-distance runner, Hicham El Guerrouj, in the run up to his retirement in 2006. The journalist knew one year in advance that the champion was coming up to retirement and would not be back on the running track, but he needed to write the story in a creative way, without giving away that he received the information from someone close to El Guerrouj, or perhaps even from El Guerrouj himself.

He began his piece, therefore, by noting that El Guerrouj’s cheeks were no longer as hollow as they had once been. This suggested he had stopped training, or training extensively, and that he had put on weight. Thus he was able to write a piece saying that El Guerrouj would soon be retiring from running. The journalist used sharp observation skills to tell this story, based on his own knowledge of the athletics field. 

You also need a great headline. On November 26, 2020, The Sun, a British newspaper, chose an interesting headline to report the death of football legend Diego Maradona - “Under Hand of God”. This was a clear reference to the moment when Maradona scored the famous goal against English goalkeeper Peter Shelton during the semi-finals of the FIFA World Cup Mexico in 1986. When Maradona was asked if he scored with his hand, he answered: “It was the hand of God.”

Practical steps to writing a good sports story:

1. Build a wide background knowledge . An in-depth knowledge of any sporting event or issue will enable you to come up with new approaches and angles for your story. 

2. Use critical thinking . This will help you to process and come up with different angles, particularly ones that will really resonate with your audience. 

3. Record all details . When working in the field, introduce yourself to as many people as possible, follow the fans, listen to their chants, ask them about their journey to the match and their personal experiences (do not just ask them about what they think the results of the match will be). 

4. Choose a good peg . Your introduction must grab the attention of the reader and make them want to read more, while preserving the inherent news value of the story itself. 

5. Be innovative with your headline . Instead try something more original. After the US and England teams tied in the FIFA World Cup 2010, The New York Post’s first page headline was “USA Wins 1-1, Greatest tie against the British since Bunker Hill” (in reference to the battle during the American revolution against the British in 1775). 

6. Avoid tired cliches . Don’t just trot out old phrases that readers are bored of. Try to create new phrases to describe the event which capture its atmosphere. 

7. A good story is one that focuses on critical details , not general information.

TOP TIPS - 7 things to master as a sports journalist

• Develop your language skills: This can be achieved through constant reading and practising narration tools. 
• Practise different styles: Follow the work of other journalists - not only in the field of sports - and understand their writing styles. Adapt them to your own journalistic pieces. To develop your narrative skills, read both fiction and non-fiction and adapt these styles in your sports stories.
• Understand the social issues: A professional sports journalist should have a broad background knowledge of the historical and sociological dimensions linked to each sport as well as its interaction with society, and much more. 
• Develop your critical thinking: Dig through the details of sports events, read up on a sport’s history and understand its tiniest details. This will help you ask unique questions which will distinguish you from other journalists. 
• Diversify your content: Try out different forms of journalism. Diversifying through scripts, videos and podcasts and others will help you determine the most accommodating type and which is most likely to reach your particular audience.
• Gather resources: This is best achieved by building a network of active parties in the sports field. Attend training and competition fields, build professional relationships with athletes and coaches, and engage with sports fans and sports journalism communities. 
• Be critical of your own work: A professional journalist constantly asks questions of themselves. After you finish a story, try to evaluate it objectively. Look for the weak points to avoid in the future as well as the positive elements to build on.

Sourcing information on the internet

You can also find a wealth of information from various sites on the internet, including the following:

Soccerstats.com : publishes numbers and statistics which are constantly updated, on most football matches around the world, as well as in-depth statistics relating to most angles of concern for any expert sports journalist. 

Whoscored.com : publishes in-depth statistics about players’ performance including evaluations of performances after each match. 

understat.com : publishes in-depth statistics on matches in the major five leagues (English League, Spanish, Italia, German, French) which will help journalists write their analysis reports of matches. 

fbref.com : is for those interested in the accomplishments of footballers, in numbers. For example, how many goals has Lionel Messi scored throughout his career? Who scored the highest number of goals in the 2010-2011 season, Messi or Ronaldo? 

transfermarkt.co.uk : specialises in following player transfers between football clubs around the world. It covers most of the world’s league championships, including Arab leagues. 

Ultimatetennisstatistics.com

tennisstats247.com 

coretennis.net 

hoopshype.com

proballers.com 

worldathletics.org/stats-zone 

Other sports

statsperform.com : covers more than half a million matches annually of different sports, analysing numbers and statistics. 

gracenote.com : provides statistics of different types of sports. 

sports-reference.com : this website presents a free database of various sports, in addition to following players’ performance in many different sports.

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write an article to a newspaper describing the recent sport olympiad where kazakhstan

Sau 1st term.

Tasks for the Summative Assessment for Term 1

Task 1.  Watch the video. What is the main idea of the conversation? 

Go to this link to listen:  https://www.youtube.com/watch?time_continue=1&v=dBNIrt0-wK8 

Teacher can read the transcript below. 

Task 2.  Listen to the conversation again and answer the questions: 

1. Which country is the final destination for the Street Soccer tour? 

B) Senegal 

C) South Africa 

2. You need to be mentally and physically fit to play street soccer. 

A) Doesn’t say 

3. The Amsterdam players aren’t very good at street soccer. 

B) Doesn’t say 

4. How many games did the street legends win in Amsterdam? 

A) all of them 

B) half of the games 

C) the video doesn’t say 

5. Edgar David used to play football for the Netherlands. 

6. Which city are the Street Legends heading to the next? 

Task 3.  Read the text and choose the right topic sentences (1-4) for paragraphs (A-D). Use each topic sentence only once and write the corresponding letter in the space given. 

1. Nelson Mandela became a leader in the African National Congress (ANC). 

2. Nelson Mandela was a civil rights leader in South Africa. 

3. Mandela would spend the next 27 years in prison. 

4. Nelson Mandela was born on July 18, 1918 in Mvezo, South Africa 

A. ________________________. He fought against apartheid, a system where non-white citizens were segregated from whites and did not have equal rights. He served a good portion of his life in prison for his protests, but became a symbol for his people. Later he would become president of South Africa. 

B. ________________________. His birth name is Rolihlahla. He got the nickname Nelson from a teacher in school. Nelson was a member of Thimbu royalty and his father was chief of the city of Mvezo. He attended school and later college at the College of Fort Hare and the University of Witwatersrand. At Witwatersrand, Mandela got his law degree and would meet some of his fellow activists against apartheid. 

C. ________________________. At first, he pushed hard for the congress and the protesters to follow Mohandas Gandhi's non-violence approach. At one point, he started to doubt that this approach would work and started up an armed branch of the ANC. He planned to bomb certain buildings, but only the buildings. He wanted to make sure that no one would be hurt. He was classified as a terrorist by the South African government and sent to prison. 

D. ________________________. His prison sentence brought international visibility to the anti-apartheid movement. He was finally released through international pressure in 1990. Once released from prison, Nelson continued his campaign to end apartheid. His hard work and life long effort paid off when all races were allowed to vote in the 1994 election. Nelson Mandela won the election and became president of South Africa. There were several times during the process where violence threatened to break out. Nelson was a strong force in keeping the calm and preventing a major civil war. 

Choose ONE of the topics and write. 

Topic 1.  Write an article to a newspaper describing the most popular hobby in Kazakhstan nowadays using appropriate grammar. Try to mention these questions: 

1. What kind of hobby is very popular among younger generation in Kazakhstan? 

2. Why is it important? 

3. Is your own hobby different from the most popular one? How? Why? 

Topic 2 . Write an article to a newspaper describing the recent Sport Olympiad where Kazakhstan sportsmen participated (in country or abroad) using appropriate grammar. Try to mention these questions: 

1. What is the Olympiad’s focus? 

2. How did our sportsmen perform? 

3. Why is it important to participate in such events? 

Task 4.  “Face to face”. Sit in front of a partner. Talk on your topic for 2 minutes. While you are talking, your partner will assess your speech using peer-assessment sheet. Then, turn your roles. Give each other feedback by telling the strong points of the speech and what your partner needs to improve in his/her speech. 

Learners are divided into 2 groups; they sit in front of each other. They talk about the chosen topic for 2 minutes. While one learner is talking the second learner is peer-assessing first learner’s speech. Then they change their roles. The second learner speaks and the first one assesses. Learners should provide feedback by telling the strong points of the speech and what a partner needs to improve in his/her speech. Teacher facilitates the learners through ongoing monitoring. 

Peer-assessment sheet:           

Total marks [20]

Mark scheme Listening and Reading

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How to Write a News Article That's Effective

It's similar to writing academic papers, but with vital differences

• Writing Research Papers
• Writing Essays
• English Grammar
• M.Ed., Education Administration, University of Georgia
• B.A., History, Armstrong State University

Techniques for writing a news article differ from those needed for academic papers. Whether you're interested in writing for a school newspaper, fulfilling a requirement for a class, or seeking a writing job in journalism, you'll need to know the difference. To write like a real reporter, consider this guide for how to write a news article.

Choose Your Topic

First, you must decide what to write about. Sometimes an editor or instructor will give you assignments, but you’ll often have to find your own topics to cover.

If you get to choose your topic, you might be able to pick a subject related to your personal experience or family history, which would give you a strong framework and a dose of perspective. However, this route means you must work to avoid bias—you may have strong opinions that could affect your conclusions. You also could pick a topic that revolves around a personal interest, such as your favorite sport.

Research for Your News Article

Even if you end up with a topic close to your heart, you should begin with research, using books and articles that will give you a full understanding of the subject. Go to the library and find background information about people, organizations, and events you intend to cover.

Next, interview a few people to collect more information and quotes that give perspective on the topic. Don't be intimidated by the idea of interviewing important or newsworthy people—an interview can be as formal or informal as you want to make it, so relax and have fun with it. Find people with backgrounds in the topic and strong opinions, and carefully write down or record their responses for accuracy. Let the interviewees know that you will be quoting them.

Parts of a News Article

Before you write your first draft, you should be aware of the parts that make up a news story:

Headline or title

The headline  of your article should be catchy and to the point. You should punctuate your title using Associated Press style guidelines unless your publication specifies something else. Other members of the publication staff frequently write the headlines, but this will help focus your thoughts and maybe save those other staffers some time.

• "Lost dog finds his way home"
• "Debate tonight in Jasper Hall"
• "Panel chooses 3 essay winners"

The byline is the name of the writer—your name, in this case.

Lead (sometimes written "lede")

The lead is the first sentence or paragraph, written to provide a preview of the entire article. It summarizes the story and includes many of the basic facts. The lead will help readers decide if they want to read the rest of the news article or if they are satisfied knowing these details.

Once you’ve set the stage with a good lead, follow up with a well-written story that contains facts from your research and quotes from people you’ve interviewed. The article should not contain your opinions. Detail any events in chronological order. Use the active voice —not passive voice —when possible, and write in clear, short, direct sentences.

In a news article, you should use the inverted pyramid format—putting the most critical information in the early paragraphs and following with supporting information. This ensures that the reader sees the important details first. Hopefully they'll be intrigued enough to continue to the end.

The sources

Include your sources in the body with the information and quotes they provide. This is different from academic papers, where you would add these at the end of the piece.

Your conclusion can be your last bit of information, a summary, or a carefully chosen quote to leave the reader with a strong sense of your story.

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Writing sports articles for newspapers

Writing a news article is different from writing other articles or informational pieces, because news articles present information in a specific way. It’s important to be able to convey all the important information in a limited word count and giving the best information to your targeted audience. Knowing how to write a news article can help you expand a journalism career, exercise your writing skills and convey information clearly and concisely.

Part One of Three: Planning Your Article Edit

Research your topic. To begin writing a news article you need to research the topic you will be writing about extensively. In order to have a credible, well written, well structured article, you have to know the topic well.

• If you’ve ever written a research paper you understand the work that goes into learning about your topic. The first phase of writing a news article or editorial is pretty similar.
• Who – who was involved?
• What – what happened?
• Where – where did it happen?
• Why – why did it happen?
• When – when did it happen?
• How – how did it happen?

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Compile all your facts.

• 1) those that need to be included in the article.
• 2) those that are interesting but not vital.
• 3) those that are related but not important to the purpose of the article.

• Be as specific as possible when writing down all of these facts. You can always trim down unnecessary information later, but it’s easier to cut down than it is to have to beef up an article.
• It’s okay at this point to have holes in your information – if you don’t have a pertinent fact, write down the question and highlight it so you won’t forget to find it out

Create an article outline. Your outline, and subsequently your article, should be structured for like an inverted triangle. The inverted triangle allows you to build your story so that the most important information is at the top. [2]

• If you’ve ever heard the term “burying the lead”, that is in reference to the structure of your article. [3] The “lead” is the first sentence of the article – the one you “lead” with. Not “burying the lead” simply means that you shouldn’t make your readers read several paragraphs before they get to the point of your article.
• Whatever forum you’re writing for, be it print or for the web, a lot of readers don’t make it to the end of the article. When writing a news article you should focus on giving your readers what they want as soon as possible.
• Write above the fold. The fold comes from newspapers where there’s a crease because the page gets folded in half. If you look at a newspaper all the top stories are placed above the fold. The same goes for writing online. The virtual fold is the bottom of your screen before you have to scroll down. Put the best information at the top to engage your readers and encourage them to keep reading.

Know your audience. In order to write a great news article you need to know exactly who you are writing for. Your audience will dictate the voice and tone of your article and help you to know what you should include.

• Ask yourself the “5W’s” again, but this time in relation to your audience.
• Questions like what is the average age you are writing for, where is this audience, local or national, why is this audience reading your article, and what does your audience want out of your article will inform you on how to write.
• Once you know who you are writing for you can format an outline that will get the best information to the right audience as quickly as possible.

Find an angle. Why is this article unique to you? What is your voice? These questions will help you to make your news article unique and something that only you could write.

• Even if you are covering a popular story or topic that others are writing about, look for an angle that will make this one yours.
• Do you have a personal experience that relates to your topic? Maybe you know someone who is an expert that you can interview.

Interview people. When writing a news article, interviewing people and getting a first hand source on your topic can be invaluable. And while reaching out to people and asking for an interview may seem daunting, it can greatly affect the credibility and authority of your article. [4]

• People usually like to talk about personal experiences, especially if it will be featured somewhere, like your news article. Reach out through a phone call, email, or even social media and ask someone if you can interview them.
• When you do interview people you need to follow a few rules: identify yourself as a reporter. Keep an open mind. Stay objective. While you are encouraged to ask questions and listen to anecdotes, you are not there to judge.
• Record and write down important information from the interview, and be transparent with what you are doing and why you are doing this interview.

Part Two of Three: Writing Your News Article Edit

Start with the lead. Begin with a strong leading sentence. News articles begin with a leading sentence that is meant to grab a reader’s attention and interest them. This is one of the most important parts of the piece, so start with the the good stuff when writing a news article. Remember the inverted triangle.

• Your lead should be one sentence and should simply, but completely, state the topic of the article.
• Remember when you had to write essays for school? Your lead is like your thesis statement.
• Let your readers know what your news article is about, why it’s important, and what the rest of the article will contain.

Give all the important details. The next important step to writing news articles is including all the relevant facts and details that relate to your lead statement. Include the basics of what happened, where and when it took place, who is involved and why it’s newsworthy.

• These details are important, because they are the focal point of the article that fully informs the reader.
• If you are writing an opinion piece, this is where you will state what your opinion is as well.

Follow up main facts with additional information. After you’ve listed all the primary facts in your news article, include any additional information that might help the reader learn more, such as contact information, additional facts about the topic or people involved, or quotes from interviews.

• This additional information helps round out the article and can help you transition to new points as you move along.
• If you have an opinion, this is where you will identify the opposing views and the people who hold them.
• A good news article will outline facts and information. A great news article will allow readers to engage on an emotional level.
• To engage your readers, you should provide enough information that anyone reading your news article can make an informed opinion, even if it contrasts with yours.
• This also applies to a news article where you the author don’t state your opinion but present it as an unbiased piece of information. Your readers should still be able to learn enough about your topic to form an opinion.

Conclude your article. Congratulate your readers for sticking with you to the end by giving the reader something to take away, like potential solutions to the problem or challenges expressed in your article.

• Make sure your news article is complete and finished by giving it a good concluding sentence. This is often a restatement of the leading statement (thesis) or a statement indicating potential future developments relating to the article topic.
• Read other news articles for ideas on how to best accomplish this. Or, watch news stations or shows. See how a news anchor will wrap up a story and sign off, then try to emulate that.

How do I write a science news article related?

Answered by wikiHow Contributor

• Well-written news articles on science topics should be able to explain scientific concepts clearly and understandably to the layperson. You can start by writing about a new study that was done and summarize its results. Get some opinions on the subject by conducting interviews with the people behind the study and other experts. Remember to explain any jargon or complex concepts.

What are some qualities of a good news writer?

• The main qualities of a good news writer is the ability to search out a news worthy event or idea that others may find interesting. They are clear, concise, and relate to their audience.

How do I write an article to a newspaper on the benefits and misuse of mobile phones in our lives?

• Write it the same way you would any other article. Compile your facts, craft a good lead, and support it with the information you gathered. You can also write a less formal letter to the editor to comment on social issues regarding mobile phones.

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How to Write a Newspaper Article

Last Updated: March 16, 2023 Fact Checked

This article was co-authored by Gerald Posner . Gerald Posner is an Author & Journalist based in Miami, Florida. With over 35 years of experience, he specializes in investigative journalism, nonfiction books, and editorials. He holds a law degree from UC College of the Law, San Francisco, and a BA in Political Science from the University of California-Berkeley. He’s the author of thirteen books, including several New York Times bestsellers, the winner of the Florida Book Award for General Nonfiction, and has been a finalist for the Pulitzer Prize in History. He was also shortlisted for the Best Business Book of 2020 by the Society for Advancing Business Editing and Writing. There are 11 references cited in this article, which can be found at the bottom of the page. This article has been fact-checked, ensuring the accuracy of any cited facts and confirming the authority of its sources. This article has been viewed 323,542 times.

A newspaper article should provide an objective, factual account of an event, person, or place. Most newspaper articles are read quickly or skimmed by the reader, so the most important information should always appear first, followed by descriptive content that rounds out the story. By conducting research and following the correct organizational structure, you can create an informative newspaper article in no time.

Sample Articles

Conducting Interviews and Research

• Your sources should be experts in the field your article is focusing on, such as a certified professional, a professor, or an academic. You can use sources that have extensive experience or background in a field that relates to your article.
• Sources like a witness to an event can also be useful, especially if they have first-hand experience of the topic you are covering.

• You may need to conduct more than 1 interview with your sources, especially if they are a major source for the article. You can also send follow-up questions to your sources as needed.
• You will need to transcribe your interviews by typing them up to ensure you quote your sources correctly. Having transcriptions will also make fact checking your article and backing up your sources much easier.

• Make sure you cite the information properly in your article by noting the name or organization that provided the information. You should have credible sources to back up any claims or arguments made in the article.

• If you are writing the newspaper article for an editor, they may require you to provide a list of your sources for the article to show you have fact checked your work.

Structuring the Article

• For example, you may create a headline like, “Teen Girl Missing in Okotoks” or “Congress Stalls on Family Planning Bill.”
• In some cases, it may be easier to save the headline for last, after you have written the article, so you know what the focus of the article is and can sum it up clearly.

• For example, you may write a lead like, "An outbreak of flu in San Francisco has led to 3 elementary school closings this week, according to school officials." Or, "A missing girl originally from Okotoks was found Monday in an abandoned cabin in the Minnetonka area, according to local police."

• For example, you may write, “10-12 students have been diagnosed with the flu and health officials fear it could continue to spread if it is not contained.”

• For example, you may write, “The teen girl was reported missing on Friday afternoon by her mother after she did not come home from a study date at a friend’s house. She is the second girl to be reported missing in the past 2 weeks from the Okotoks area.”

• For example, you may write, “‘The girl is shaken, but does not appear to have any serious injuries,’ stated local Police Chief Wilborn.” Or you may write, “According to a statement by school officials, ‘The shutdown will prevent the flu from spreading further and ensure the safety of our students.’”
• Avoid using long quotes or more than 4 quotes in the article, as the reader may get confused or lost if there are too many quotations.

• For example, you may write, “The girl’s mother expressed relief for her daughter and concern about her community, noting, ‘I just hope no other girls go missing in this area.’”
• Or you may write, “Local health officials are urging parents to check the municipal health and wellness website, www.hw.org, for updates on when schools are able to reopen.”

Creating the Appropriate Voice and Tone

• For example, rather than write, “The missing girl’s mother thought it had to do with school,” you may write, “The missing girl’s mother thought bullying at school may have caused her daughter’s absences.”

• For example, rather than write, “A press conference will be held by local police tomorrow to address the missing girls and the public’s concerns,” you may write, “Local police will address the missing girls and the public’s concerns in a press conference tomorrow.”

• For example, if you're writing about two political candidates running against each other in an election, present both candidates in an equal light, rather than giving extra details about 1 candidate.
• If you're writing an op-ed piece, it's okay to mix some of your opinions with the facts.

Polishing the Article

• Reading the article aloud can also help you catch any spelling, grammar, or punctuation errors.

• For example, you may ask others questions like, “Were you able to understand what happened, based on the information in the article?” “Was the language clear and easy to follow?” “Was the article well supported with sources and quotes?”

• If you are writing the newspaper article for a class, make sure it falls within the prescribed word limit for the assignment.

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Thanks for reading our article! If you'd like to learn more about writing as a career, check out our in-depth interview with Gerald Posner .

• ↑ https://guides.lib.vt.edu/researchmethods/interviews
• ↑ https://www.csus.edu/indiv/o/obriene/art116/readings/guide%20for%20conducting%20interviews.pdf
• ↑ https://www.pewresearch.org/internet/2013/01/22/part-4-what-people-want-from-their-libraries/
• ↑ https://settlement.org/ontario/daily-life/communication/ethnic-and-cultural-media/what-is-fake-news-and-how-to-stop-spreading-misinformation/
• ↑ https://www.viasport.ca/communications-toolkit/module-4-how-write-engaging-sports-article
• ↑ https://owl.purdue.edu/owl/subject_specific_writing/journalism_and_journalistic_writing/writing_leads.html
• ↑ https://owl.english.purdue.edu/owl/resource/735/05/
• ↑ https://www.lib.sfu.ca/about/branches-depts/slc/writing/sources/quoting
• ↑ https://lib.trinity.edu/in-text-citation-and-notes//
• ↑ https://www.csus.edu/campus-safety/police-department/_internal/_documents/rwm.pdf
• ↑ https://www2.ed.gov/rschstat/eval/tech/evidence-based-practices/finalreport.pdf

About This Article

To write a newspaper article, gather all of your sources and verify any facts or sources you plan to use. Write an opening sentence that tells the readers the most essential details of the story. Write in third person, active voice, and maintain an authoritative tone throughout the article. Keep in mind the questions “Who,” “What,” “Where,” “When,” “Why,” and “How” when you’re writing your story, and try to answer as many of them as you can. When you’re finished writing the article, craft a short, engaging headline that tells readers what the article is about. To learn how reading your article out loud can help you proofread it, keep reading! Did this summary help you? Yes No

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