How to Write a Column

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muhammadmohsinali
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How to Write a Column

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Columns are articles or features written for newspapers, magazines, newsletters and other publications. They may be published regularly or one time. While still considered a form of journalism, the language in columns is typically less formal and targeted to a specific audience. Utilize these tips for how to write a column.1-Identify the purpose of your column. • Inform readers. Columns can be written to share information, knowledge and experience. Examples of informative columns include how-to and advice columns.• Persuade people. Activists, politicians and officials write columns to support a political cause, business action, or other activity or organization.• Entertain your audience. Some columns have no other purpose than to be funny or reflect on the humorous aspects of life.2-Establish the general content of your column. • Write your column with a base evolving from your personal knowledge, experience or education.• Draft columns from observations.• Use research to create your columns. Utilize other expert opinions.3-Pick your audience, and speak in its language. • Choose an audience based on demographics, such as age, race, socio-economic status or level of education.• Select members of a specific industry or profession for your audience. Many columns are directed to attorneys, doctors, technology experts, writers, sales personnel and others.• Opt to direct your column to people in a specific geographic region.4-Determine the structure of your column. • Teach your audience to complete projects or tasks in a how-to column. Give detailed directions to people so they can do or create something.• Provide insight to a topic or person with columns that provide question-and-answer interviews.• Share stories, insights or opinions through a personal column that reads much like an article or letter.5-Create a consistent style for your column. • Keep a steady tone. Refrain from being funny if your tone is normally serious. Avoid seriousness if your style is typically humorous or sarcastic.• Speak to your readers in a consistent manner. Use similar language, phrasing and vocabulary in each column.• Write in the same tense each time you write your column. For example, always write in present tense or first person.6-Remain focused when writing your column. • While your topics may vary, your overall theme should remain the same.7-Proofread and edit your column. • Critique it carefully. Make changes that will enhance it, improve your writing and provide more clarity for the reader.8-Meet all deadlines. • It is essential to meet deadlines and prepare your columns in time for publication. Your column will likely be rejected if it is not submitted in a timely fashion.
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