Gather facts for your article. Check the pertinent dates and times of events and the names of people and places involved. Make sure you have research to back up everything you write.
Get ready to interview your sources. Write a list of questions before the interview. Bring a tape recorder to make sure you get exact quotes. If you don't have a tape recorder, take thorough notes in shorthand.
Outline your article. Write down the main points (who, what, when, where, how, why and cost). Use the inverted pyramid format to outline the rest, meaning give your readers the most important facts first followed by less important facts toward the end.
Write a lead sentence that piques your audience's attention. Follow with a straightforward introduction that gives your readers the main points of your article. Continue fleshing out your outline with clear, concise sentences.
Use quotes that illustrate your source's thoughts and opinions. Quotes are effective when worded well and used sparingly.
Remain objective. Unless the article is an opinion piece, refrain from writing your feelings and beliefs; state facts only. If the subject matter is controversial, include both sides of the argument for a balanced article.
Integrate citations into the text of your article. For example, "In an interview on April 12, John Smith said... ." Make sure every fact in your article has a credible citation.
Review your draft. Double check your facts, correct all name spellings, scrutinize your work for objectivity and make sure every sentence is clear. Type up a clean copy for submission to your editor.