10.2 Developing Story Ideas

Feature writing demands creativity and keen observation. Journalists must tap into diverse sources for inspiration, from people-watching to personal experiences. The art of storytelling involves identifying compelling narratives that resonate with readers.

Evaluating story ideas requires a critical eye. Writers must consider newsworthiness, feasibility, and audience appeal. Developing a strong focus and crafting an effective pitch are crucial skills for turning promising concepts into published features.

Story Idea Generation and Development

Methods for feature story brainstorming

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• Observation techniques sharpens awareness of surroundings yields story ideas
  • People watching in public spaces reveals human behavior patterns and interactions (parks, cafes)
  • Analyzing social media trends uncovers emerging issues and public sentiment (Twitter hashtags, Instagram challenges)
  • Attending local events and gatherings provides insights into community interests (farmers markets, town hall meetings)
• Personal experiences tap into authentic storytelling material
  • Drawing from own life events offers unique perspectives on universal themes (overcoming fear, career changes)
  • Exploring family history uncovers generational stories and societal shifts (immigration journeys, cultural traditions)
  • Reflecting on personal challenges or triumphs reveals relatable human experiences (battling illness, achieving goals)
• News events spark ideas for in-depth exploration
  • Following up on breaking news stories uncovers long-term impacts and untold angles (aftermath of natural disasters)
  • Identifying local angles to national stories connects broader issues to community concerns (local impact of federal policies)
  • Exploring underreported aspects of current events sheds light on overlooked perspectives (marginalized voices in political debates)
• Additional brainstorming methods stimulate creativity
  • Mind mapping visually connects related concepts and potential story threads (central topic branches into subtopics)
  • Freewriting unleashes stream-of-consciousness ideas without self-censorship (timed writing sessions)
  • Collaborative brainstorming sessions harness diverse perspectives and spark new connections (group ideation exercises)

Evaluation of feature story ideas

• Newsworthiness criteria assesses story value
  • Timeliness connects story to current events or ongoing relevance (seasonal topics, anniversaries)
  • Proximity considers geographical or emotional closeness to audience (local impact stories)
  • Impact evaluates potential effect on readers' lives or society (policy changes, scientific breakthroughs)
  • Human interest focuses on emotional appeal and relatable experiences (personal triumphs, community heroes)
  • Uniqueness assesses originality and fresh perspectives on topics (unconventional approaches, untold stories)
• Feasibility factors determine practicality of pursuing story
  • Access to sources evaluates availability of key interviewees and information (public figures, restricted locations)
  • Time constraints consider deadlines and research requirements (breaking news vs long-form features)
  • Resource availability assesses necessary tools and budget (travel expenses, specialized equipment)
  • Ethical considerations examine potential conflicts or sensitive issues (privacy concerns, vulnerable subjects)
• Audience appeal gauges reader engagement potential
  • Relevance to target demographic aligns story with audience interests and needs (age groups, professional sectors)
  • Potential for engagement assesses shareability and discussion value (controversial topics, inspiring narratives)
• Story depth potential evaluates richness of material
  • Complexity of the topic determines need for in-depth exploration (multifaceted issues, historical contexts)
  • Availability of multiple perspectives ensures balanced and comprehensive coverage (diverse viewpoints, expert opinions)

Story Focus and Presentation

Focus development for features

• Identifying the core message clarifies story purpose
  • Central question or problem guides narrative direction (What causes food deserts in urban areas?)
  • Key themes or conflicts provide narrative structure (Man vs nature, tradition vs progress)
• Narrowing the scope sharpens story focus
  • Selecting specific aspects to highlight creates manageable narrative (focusing on one family's experience in a broader issue)
  • Eliminating extraneous information maintains reader engagement (cutting tangential details)
• Creating a compelling narrative arc structures story effectively
  • Establishing a clear beginning, middle, and end provides satisfying reader journey (introduction, rising action, resolution)
  • Identifying key turning points maintains narrative momentum (pivotal moments, unexpected twists)
• Considering different perspectives enriches story depth
  • Exploring contrasting viewpoints presents balanced coverage (opposing sides of a debate)
  • Seeking unexpected angles uncovers fresh insights (unconventional expert opinions, overlooked stakeholders)

Pitching features to editors

• Elements of a strong pitch capture editor's attention
  • Concise summary conveys story essence quickly (30-second elevator pitch)
  • Clear angle or hook demonstrates unique selling point (fresh take on familiar topic)
  • Proposed sources and research methods show story feasibility (access to key figures, data analysis plans)
• Demonstrating story value convinces editors of worthiness
  • Explaining relevance to audience connects to publication's goals (alignment with reader demographics)
  • Highlighting unique aspects sets story apart from competition (exclusive access, groundbreaking research)
• Addressing potential concerns preempts editor objections
  • Anticipating questions or objections demonstrates thorough planning (addressing sensitive topics, resource needs)
  • Proposing solutions to challenges shows problem-solving ability (alternative sources, creative research methods)
• Presentation techniques enhance pitch effectiveness
  • Verbal pitching strategies use persuasive speaking skills (confidence, enthusiasm, clear articulation)
  • Written pitch formats tailor approach to medium (concise email pitch, detailed story proposal)
• Follow-up and flexibility demonstrate professionalism
  • Responding to feedback shows receptiveness to editorial guidance (incorporating suggested changes)
  • Adapting ideas based on editorial input demonstrates flexibility (refocusing story angle, expanding scope)