How to Enhance Your Articles for The Talon - A Guide to Writing Engaging and Professional Stories

Writing for The Talon is an exciting opportunity to showcase your journalistic skills. To make sure your articles stand out and capture the attention of your readers, here are some tips on how to enhance your articles, making them more engaging, informative, and polished.

1. Start Strong with a Compelling Lead

The lead (first paragraph) is the most important part of your article. It should grab the reader’s attention and make them want to keep reading. Here are a few tips for writing a strong lead:

• Answer key questions immediately: Who, what, when, where, why, and how.

• Make it intriguing: Use a quote, interesting fact, or a provocative statement to pull the reader in.

• Keep it concise: Be direct and to the point without unnecessary details.

Example:

• Weak Lead: "Social media has become very popular with teenagers."

• Strong Lead: "Teenagers spend an average of 3 hours per day on social media, leading experts to raise concerns about its impact on mental health."

2. Focus on Clarity and Conciseness

Keep your writing clear and concise. Avoid using complex language or jargon that might confuse your readers.

• Be direct: Avoid unnecessary fluff or filler words.

• Break up long sentences: This makes the article easier to read.

• Use active voice: Active voice is more engaging and direct than passive voice.

Example:

• Weak: "The decision was made by the committee after considering all available data."

• Strong: "The committee decided after reviewing all available data."

3. Maintain Objectivity and Avoid Bias

One of the most important aspects of journalism is maintaining objectivity. Ensure your article provides facts and balanced perspectives, especially when discussing controversial issues.

• Present both sides: If your topic has multiple viewpoints, make sure to include them.

• Be careful with your language: Avoid using emotionally charged or biased words that might suggest a personal opinion.

Example:

• Biased: "The government’s new policy is a disaster for education."

• Neutral: "The government’s new policy has sparked debate over its impact on education."

4. Use Quotes and Sources to Support Your Story

Adding quotes and credible sources to your article can enhance its authority and depth. A good quote can bring personality and credibility to your article.

• Interview people: Speak to experts, teachers, students, or others with knowledge of the topic.

• Use credible sources: Reference well-known publications, studies, or experts.

• Quote accurately: Ensure that all quotes are word-for-word and properly attributed.

Example:

• Without a Quote: "Students spend a lot of time on their phones, which might affect their grades."

• With a Quote: “Many students use their phones for hours a day, which can distract them from their studies,” said Dr. Smith, a psychologist at the university.

5. Add Visual Elements

Articles with visuals are more engaging and can help break up the text, making the story easier to read.

• Include images: Use relevant, high-quality images that help tell your story.

• Use captions: Always provide clear, concise captions for images and graphics.

• Consider infographics: If applicable, consider adding a chart, graph, or infographic to support your data.

6. Write in the Reverse Pyramid Style

As per The Talon guidelines, always write your article in the reverse pyramid style, where the most important information comes first, followed by supporting details.

• Lead with the key points: Start with the “5 W’s and H” (who, what, when, where, why, and how).

• Follow up with supporting details: Provide background, quotes, and secondary information in descending order of importance.

• End with less crucial details: If necessary, provide additional context at the end.

7. Ensure Accuracy and Fact-Check

Accuracy is paramount in journalism. Your article will be more reliable and professional if you back up your claims with verifiable facts.

• Double-check statistics: Ensure numbers, facts, and dates are correct.

• Verify quotes: Make sure all quotes are accurate and correctly attributed.

• Avoid assumptions: Don’t speculate—only write what you know for sure.

8. Revise and Edit Your Work

Once you’ve finished your first draft, it’s time to revise and polish. Editing is where you refine your article and ensure it's the best it can be.

• Read it aloud: This helps you spot awkward phrasing or sentences that don’t flow well.

• Cut unnecessary words: If something doesn’t add value, remove it.

• Ask for feedback: Have a peer, teacher, or editor review your article for errors or suggestions.

• Editors will Fully Edit your Article After Submission

9. Craft a Catchy Headline

The headline is often the first thing readers will see, so it needs to be attention-grabbing and concise.

• Make it clear: Your headline should clearly reflect the article’s main point.

• Make it compelling: Use action verbs, interesting words, or even a bit of humor (if appropriate) to draw readers in.

• Avoid clickbait: Ensure that your headline accurately represents the article.

Example:

• Weak Headline: "Students and Social Media"

• Strong Headline: "How Social Media Is Changing Teenagers’ Lives: A Growing Concern"

10. Stay Consistent with Tone and Style

Your article should match the tone and style of The Talon.

• Keep it formal yet engaging: Since The Talon is a school publication, your writing should be professional but still approachable and engaging for your peers.

• Use an active, lively voice: Keep the reader interested and energized without being too casual or informal.

Conclusion: Bring It All Together

Enhancing your article for The Talon is about making your writing clear, engaging, and professional. By starting strong with a compelling lead, using credible sources, staying objective, and refining your work through editing, you can create an article that both informs and captivates your audience. And remember—following the reverse pyramid style, maintaining accuracy, and keeping your audience in mind will make your article even more successful. Happy writing!