Column Writing Notes

Columns
A Column is a byline article usually between 450 and 1,000
words in which you express an opinion.
Columns give the writers the opportunity to express their
thoughts on an event or subject.
Column Writing
Columnists are expected to take a unique approach when
addressing issues.
For example, columnists should never put the story in the lead.
They should keep the reader off balance and guessing to keep them
reading.
Building a Column
The Beginning- Write an effective introduction for your column to
grab the readers attention.
The Middle- Present your opinion in an appealing way or use
description. Your description should be subtle.
The Conclusion- Conclude in a way that will satisfy your reader
and let them know where you stand.
Three Types of Conclusion
Circle- Relates back to the beginning and ties up any loose ends.
Rhetorical- Leaves readers with a question to consider.
Summary- Wraps up a column by summarizing the writers main
points.
Column Characteristics
Most columnists try to incorporate three characteristics:
humanity, wit, and freedom of approach.
A column reflects humanity if the columnist is people oriented
and focuses on human interest than on exciting or breaking news.
A column is the only place in a newspaper where writers are
allowed to write about themselves.
Dos and Donts of Column Writing
Six Dos
a. Vary your subject matter
b. Look for oddities to spark interest
c. Use a style that is offbeat
d. Keep it short and to the point
e. Admit when you make a mistake
f. Have a genuine interest in your reader
 Seven Donts
a. Dont embarrass anyone (without reason)
b. Dont assume you always know best
c. Dont claim all the credit
d. Dont overwork the word I
e. Dont think your experiences are always fascinating
to others
f. Dont overuse your family
g. Dont hesitate to give both sides of the story
Types of Columns
Syndicated Columns- A syndicated column is a column that
appears in a number of different newspapers. An example would be
Dear Abby.
Humor Columns- The purpose of a humor column is to amuse
and entertain readers.
Editorials- SHould stir up action among your readers and let them
know where you stand on a specific issue.
Gossip Columns- Most people are interested in gossip whether
we admit it or not. Gossip columns take little creativity to produce.
Specialized Columns- Columns that appear in specific areas of
the newspaper such as on sports, travel, or political pages are called
specialized columns.
Specialized words that are used exclusively by people in a particular
group or activity is called jargon.

Terms to know for the test:

Column
Syndicated
Specialized Columns
Jargon