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Once you have your list of ideas (see Part One in this series if you’re new to this), what do you do now?

Start Writing Your Article

It sounds obvious but read lots of magazines and make a list of the different types of articles they contain. Include everything – from letters to the editor, to household tips, to real life experiences. Then go through and pinpoint the areas you think you can contribute to. Do any of the subjects on your list fit these, or can they be adapted? Make a note of possibilities next to each subject. Not only will this focus your planning, but it’s always helpful to show that you’ve read the magazine and know where your article might slot in when you write your pitch letter. Make a note too if you see any articles that are similar to the ones you had in mind.

Is Anyone Really Interested?

Now look further at your list of ideas. Try it view it as an outsider. Why would anyone else be interested? How could your article help them? What other information, other people to speak to, would you need? One of the best ways I know for getting this right is to imagine telling the story to my best friend. This helps me get straight into what makes the story worth telling, rather than spend too long setting the scene!

Think Ahead

Make it topical. Is there a seasonal twist to your story, or does it tie in with an anniversary of a special event? Better still, is it tied in with a current news story? Magazines and newspapers are bursting with articles about thrift at the moment, for example. One word of warning though; remember that some magazines are planned and written months ahead so you would need to be thinking about Christmas stories in June if not earlier!

Fact Finder

Get your facts right. Even if you are writing a personal story, don’t just rely on your memory or opinions. Can you get hold of facts that back it up or bring it to life? Not only do these add authority to your article, but they’ll protect you by making sure what you say is right. Sometimes our memory plays tricks with dates, places, and spellings. Also, facts can make what you write more interesting. Perhaps you think you’re alone in your particular situation, for example, but finding out how many other – or how few – people share your experience can give a whole perspective on the piece.

Now What?

Where to go next? Keep a note of any organizations, books, or shops you may want to talk about. Also it’s a good idea to give some links for readers, inspired by your article, to follow up.

Next in the series, pitching your idea to the magazine.

Photo by Ed Yourdon.