Writing Tips

• When writing a news article, answer the 5 W’s in the first paragraph; who, what, why, where, and when.
• Try to make the first paragraph only about 30 to 40 words long (yes you can fit the 5 W’s into 30 words).
• Put the information in descending order from most important to least important, because the editors of most newspapers start cutting from the bottom. You shouldn’t save for a big ending in a news report.
• Don’t go trying to use big words you’re not accustomed to using. Follow the KISS rule: Keep It Simple Stupid! (or Keep It Short & Simple if you want to be tame).
• Read your article over and over to make sure it is clear. Reading out loud helps you decide if it sounds good.
• Omit unnecessary words or words that may give the wrong interpretation.
• Be true to yourself. Write honestly, and if you are not sure of the facts, double check them. You don’t want to print wrong information (Lawyers can be such a pain!).
• Write your own stuff.
• Submit your own work, if you are using anyone else’s information, quotes etc, please state exactly the source of it. This is very important.