Article vs. Feature

Attribute	Article	Feature
Definition	A piece of writing included with others in a newspaper, magazine, or other publication	A distinctive or characteristic aspect or quality of something
Length	Typically shorter in length	Can vary in length
Focus	Usually provides information or news	Can be a specific aspect or characteristic of something
Format	Follows a specific structure or format	May not have a specific format
Publication	Found in newspapers, magazines, websites, etc.	Can be found in various forms of media

Introduction

When it comes to writing for publications, two common formats are articles and features. While both serve the purpose of informing and engaging readers, there are distinct differences between the two. In this article, we will explore the attributes of articles and features, highlighting their unique characteristics and how they differ in terms of content, structure, and purpose.

Content

Articles typically focus on delivering factual information in a straightforward manner. They are often used to report news, provide analysis, or present research findings. Articles are expected to be objective and unbiased, presenting information in a clear and concise way. On the other hand, features are more subjective and often include personal opinions, anecdotes, and storytelling elements. Features are meant to entertain and engage readers, offering a more in-depth look at a topic or issue.

Tone and Style

Articles are written in a formal tone and follow a structured format, with a clear introduction, body, and conclusion. The language used in articles is typically straightforward and to the point, focusing on delivering information efficiently. Features, on the other hand, allow for a more creative and expressive writing style. Writers can use descriptive language, humor, and narrative techniques to engage readers and create a more immersive reading experience.

Length

Articles are usually shorter in length compared to features. They are designed to convey information quickly and efficiently, often ranging from 300 to 1000 words. Features, on the other hand, can be longer and more detailed, allowing for a deeper exploration of a topic. Features can range from 1000 words to several thousand words, depending on the publication and the complexity of the subject matter.

Structure

Articles typically follow a traditional structure, with a headline, byline, lead paragraph, and body paragraphs that present information in a logical sequence. Articles may also include subheadings, bullet points, and quotes to break up the text and make it easier to read. Features, on the other hand, have more flexibility in terms of structure. They may include multiple sections, sidebars, and multimedia elements to enhance the reader's experience.

Purpose

The primary purpose of articles is to inform and educate readers on a specific topic or issue. Articles aim to provide readers with the facts and analysis they need to understand a subject. Features, on the other hand, are designed to entertain and engage readers on a more emotional level. Features may explore human interest stories, profiles of individuals, or in-depth analysis of cultural trends.

Conclusion

In conclusion, while articles and features both serve the purpose of informing and engaging readers, they differ in terms of content, tone, length, structure, and purpose. Articles are more focused on delivering factual information in a straightforward manner, while features allow for a more creative and expressive writing style. Understanding the attributes of articles and features can help writers choose the appropriate format for their content and effectively communicate with their target audience.