Writing Formula

Ever have a hard time knowing how to start or what to include in your article? Follow this formula as you write your first draft. Answer these questions and arrange you info. as the formula says.

Formula

1. Why should people care? What's in it for me? Why should I read this? So what? Why is this relevant? (this is usually good headline info) What are the benefits? (sell the story--persuasive)

2. Prove it; how? (quotes, facts, statistics, testimonials or endorsements)

3. "Quote!" Let the newsmaker tell the story for you through quotes. Resist your temptation to tell the story for them.

4. Just the facts! (who, what, when, where, how and why) What are the features? (explain the story--inform or how to)

5. What's next? (prompting or call to action, leads to a step; "for more info...")