Text type · One of two tasks

The article

Write for real readers

Word count

~250 or ~400 words

Depends on the audience

Title

Required – catchy!

Structure

5 paragraphs

Layout

Catchy title – rhetorical question, alliteration, bold statement

Introduction – ~50 words – grab the reader's attention immediately

Body paragraph 1 – ~50–80 words – content point 1

Body paragraph 2 – ~50–80 words – content point 2

Body paragraph 3 – ~50–80 words – content point 3

Conclusion – ~50 words – leave the reader thinking

Do’s and don’ts

Do

Know your audience (teenagers? general public? experts?)
Use rhetorical questions to engage readers
Address the reader directly ("you")
Talk about personal experiences and emotions
Use a topic sentence for each paragraph
Write a conclusion that leaves something to think about
Write an opening that makes people want to read on
Use exclamation marks and direct speech if the register allows it

Don’t

Don't be overly emotional or dramatic
Don't forget who you're writing for
Don't write a boring title
Don't write like a formal report (no "It is believed that…")
Don't ignore the publication context given in the task

Weaker

“In this article I am going to tell you about the advantages of doing sport.”

Stronger

“Ask anyone who has hit the wall at kilometre 30: running is at least half a mental game.”

Why it matters: An article has to pull the reader in. Announcing your plan sounds flat, while a concrete hook makes someone want to read on.

Key tip · Report vs. article: a report informs and recommends in a neutral tone. An article tries to make the reader feel something, so it can be personal and emotional. Always check where the article will appear: a school magazine needs a different voice from a serious newspaper.

Download this guide as a PDF ↓The whole guide as a PDF, for revising on paper.

Practise this text type

Pick a task, write it, then let the self-check look at your draft. The task bank has 4 article tasks.

Your school magazine is running a series on healthy technology habits and has asked for personal contributions.

Write an article (around 250 words) about a digital detox. Give your article a catchy title.

describe why you (or someone) decided to try it
explain what changed during the experience
tell readers what it taught you

An online magazine for young adults has invited contributions about working life.

Write an article (around 400 words) about how work is changing. Give your article a catchy title.

describe how remote work has changed daily life
discuss the benefits for employees
evaluate the challenges and what may be lost

A community website wants to encourage more young volunteers.

Write an article (around 250 words) about volunteering. Give your article a catchy title.

explain why volunteering is worth trying
describe a typical experience volunteers can expect
convince readers to take the first step

Mock exam

Overview Next: Report →

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