An article for a magazine is a piece of non-fiction writing aimed at a group with specific interests. Writers who have attitudes and articles published in a magazine enjoy the benefit of having their articles signed and (in most cases) are paid for their work. Magazine publishing is a business and can be hard to get into, but the first step is learning how to write an article for a magazine that sells.
Steps
Method 1 of 1: Writing Your Article for a Magazine
Step 1. Formulate an idea
Many writers initially adopt the well-known principle "write what you know".
- While "writing what you know" is good advice, it is also possible to write a good article for a magazine if you have a strong interest and willingness to learn through research and interviews.
- Sometimes the preparation of a freelance writer makes him particularly well versed for magazine articles. For example, an accountant has an edge when he writes an article on "10 Ways to Save Tax."
Step 2. Put your idea into perspective
The perspective of an article has to do with how the topic is approached. For example, many things have been written and repeated about New Year's resolutions, but if you give the idea with a new perspective - such as using social networks to be able to keep the resolutions - you could make a sale.
Step 3. Identify your market
This is the time to do market research.
- Read some issues of a magazine that represents a potential market. Pick the tone of the magazine's features and style. Can you give your idea some edge to adapt it to the magazine's audience?
- The idea for an article can be adapted for different types of magazines taking into account the audience and your approach.
- Once you have identified the market, check the magazine's website for guidelines for the writer.
Step 4. Ask a question to a section director for a targeted market
Most magazines prefer a proposal or question, where you spell out your idea in a one-page letter or email.
- Think of the question as a sales letter from a freelance writer asking the director for the job.
- Remember to follow the publication guidelines when submitting an application and / or manuscript.
Step 5. Do the research for your article
After receiving an assignment, complete your research using valid sources.
Arrange interviews with experts. Good quotes can make the difference in a magazine article
Step 6. Create a sketch
No, it doesn't have to be particularly detailed and precise at this stage. Think of an outline as an organizational map of your article for the magazine.
Freelance writers believe that most non-fiction articles require sections. Go ahead and write catchy subtitles for these sections
Step 7. Grab the reader's attention with an explosive opening paragraph
This is called the fund, and it is the most important paragraph of a magazine article. If the first paragraph doesn't convince a reader to keep reading, then you've gone down the drain.
Immediately after grabbing the reader's attention, make sure the article point or theme is obvious
Step 8. Proceed with writing the body text, with or without the bottom part
If you've tried unsuccessfully to write a great fund, put it aside for a while and write the article. You may be surprised to find that the part for the bottom will come out sooner or later.
Stay focused on the topic as you write the body of the article. Everything you write should be related and support the theme
Step 9. Compose the conclusion
Beside the bottom part, the conclusion is the most important. The ending of a magazine article should bring the piece to a satisfactory resolution for the reader.
- You could go back to the opening paragraph to close the circle.
- Some conclusions recap the main points or leave readers with an anecdote illustrating the theme.
Step 10. Put your article away for several days or a week
You are too influenced by the writing at this point and the next step requires an objective look.
Step 11. Review your article until it is ready for submission
While spelling and grammar are important, check the content as well.
- Is the point clear?
- Does the article follow a logical sequence?
- Did you choose strong verbs and specific nouns?
- If you're like most non-fiction writers, you can find ways to make your article more impactful and engaging.
Step 12. Introduce your article to the designated person, usually the magazine's editor or section manager
Many presentations are done via email today, but, again, check out the magazine's guidelines.
Advice
- Consider the illustrations. Let the director know if you can provide high-resolution digital photos or illustrations. While some of the biggest names in magazine publishing have photographers and illustrators, many don't.
- When reviewing, read your article aloud. Sometimes the ears hear something in words that the eyes cannot see.
- Be professional by following editorial guidelines and meeting deadlines.
Warnings
- Be prepared for rejection. Freelance writers experience a lot of rejection. The important thing is to keep trying.
- Don't be angry if an editor tells you to make some changes to an article. It happens, and the fact that the editor trusts you to make corrections means that he sees something good in your article.
- Avoid plagiarism.
