When writing a news article, answer the 5 W's in the first paragraph; who, what, why, where, and when.
Try to make the first paragraph only about 30 to 40 words long (yes you can fit the 5 W's into 30 words).
Put the information in descending order from most important to least important, because the editors of most newspapers start cutting from the bottom. You shouldn't save for a big ending in a news report.
Don't go trying to use big words you're not accustomed to using. Follow the KISS rule: Keep It Simple Stupid! (or Keep It Short & Simple if you want to be tame).
Read your article over and over to make sure it is clear. Reading out loud helps you decide if it sounds good.
Omit unnecessary words or words that may give the wrong interpretation.
Be true to yourself. Write honestly, and if you are not sure of the facts, double check them. You don't want to print wrong information (Lawyers can be such a pain!).
Write your own stuff.
Submit your own work, if you are using anyone else's information, quotes etc, please state exactly the source of it. This is very important.
Vision is updated monthly. Articles are selected from the eight page supplement.
