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Feature Story Tips

Feature Story Tips. Common mistakes and what to think about as you revise. Too much opinion!. Not: The plastic bag fee is not useful to shoppers without cars. Better: Shoppers without cars worry about the hassle the plastic bag fee will create.

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Feature Story Tips

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  1. Feature Story Tips Common mistakes and what to think about as you revise

  2. Too much opinion! Not: The plastic bag fee is not useful to shoppers without cars. Better: Shoppers without cars worry about the hassle the plastic bag fee will create. Not: It’s not fair that New Yorkers will have to pay for something that’s now free. Better: Some New Yorkers complain about paying for something that’s now free.

  3. Avoid “when asked” Not: When asked, Jim Williams responded, “the trains are too crowded.” Better: Riders like Jim Williams doesn’t appreciate his packed commute. “The trains are too crowded,” he says.

  4. Don’t EVER use “we.” It’s still first person (plural) Not: We talked to riders at the 168th Street station about their daily commute. Better: Riders at the 168th Street station discussed their daily commute.

  5. No vague headlines Not: Empty Your Wallets NYC Shoppers Better: Proposed Bag Fee Would Empty NYC Wallets Not: Crowded Trains in New York Better: MTA Study: Yes, NYC Trains Are More Crowded

  6. Incorrect Punctuation in Quotes Not: “I love plastic”, Smith said. Correct: “I love plastic,” Smith said. Not: Joe Smith appreciates shopping bags. “I love plastic.” Correct: Joe Smith appreciates shopping bags. “I love plastic,” he said.

  7. How to write a Q&A: the format

  8. Three parts to a Q&A: Headline Introduction 3. Body Example: http://www.nytimes.com/2013/04/11/opinion/questions-for-a-young-immigration-rights-activist.html?_r=0

  9. What’s Due Tuesday 4/8 • Your revised feature story about plastic bags/MTA ridership. You must meet the deadline or your grade will drop. Please bring a double-spaced print out with your name on it! What’s Due Thursday 4/10 • Your Q&A profile. This is a final draft. Follow the format—really!

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