Magazine article writing is a great way to get your name out there and build a reputation as an expert writer. If you have a talent for storytelling and a love of meticulous research, magazine writing could be your path to a successful career as a freelance writer!
How to Begin Writing a Magazine Article
The first step in writing a magazine article is to choose a topic that you are familiar with and can demonstrate a high level of expertise on. Then, find a publication that is interested in the subject and query them by phone or letter. Include a query letter that states why you think your magazine article would be of interest to readers, and what your experience is as a writer. You may also want to add a few text samples and any other information about yourself as a writer.
Your first-person point of view is a great tool to help your article stand out from the crowd. It lets you make your reader feel like they are a part of the discussion and is easier to relate to than a standard opinion essay.
A first-person article can be a fun way to write but can also be challenging to pitch to an editor. It is important to focus on your audience, so take the time to learn their interests and tailor your writing to meet them.
Keep Your Words Short and Clear
Whether you are pitching your article for print or online, your opening paragraph needs to grab the editor’s attention right away. A poorly crafted opening can sour a reader’s interest, so spend the time to craft a compelling opener that sets you apart from other writers.
Start With A Strong Title
Your headline is the most important part of your magazine article. It is what will draw the reader in and entice them to continue reading. Ensure it makes sense and is logical and consistent with the rest of your article.
It should tell the reader what the article is about, and it must be relevant to their lives. This is especially true if it is written for an online audience.
Create a brief outline of your article before you start writing. This will help you organize your thoughts and avoid getting stuck while writing the actual article.
Once you have your draft, you should give it a final check to make sure it reads well and is logical and complete. You should also make sure your facts are correct and up to date, and that you have followed the publisher’s submission guidelines.
Then, put it aside for a day and return to it again. This time, use a red ink pen or delete key and cut out any unnecessary words or phrases. You can then rephrase your sentences to make them shorter and clearer.
Your article should be a logical and concise read, with a central idea in each sentence. You should also follow the publisher’s guidelines, which may have special instructions for format and language. This will make your writing easier to understand and ensure that you have a good chance of getting published in your target publication.
