Writing a Newspaper Article

The structure of a standard newspaper story

The lead paragraph is straight to the point and brief, saying what has happened.
The second paragraph says why there has been concern.
'Public Health Chief' etc introduces an 'expert view' which is quoted in direct speech.
A question is posed to help involve the reader. Back to reported speech for variety.
Back to the expert telling the reader what they can, or perhaps can't do.
Reassures readers who might be concerned about wider implications.
Don't call us! Conclusions usually avoid quotes, and sometimes anticipate how the story might develop-'what happens next?'

Using photographs

You should try to use photographs in every article as they enhance visual appeal and make the story much easier for people to understand. Photographs must be of a good quality.

Making stories fit

If stories are too long, you can cut the text, trim or resize any photos, shorten the headline or alter the font.

If stories are too short, you can add text, enlarge a photo, add a standfirst, alter size of font, put a space between paragraphs, add crossheads, add a lift quote or advertisement material.