As a seasoned journalist and feature writer with extensive experience in crafting compelling narratives, I can provide you with a detailed understanding of the lengths that feature stories typically take. Feature stories are a form of long-form journalism that delves into a topic with depth and nuance, often providing a more personal or comprehensive perspective than a standard news article.

Length of a Feature Story

The length of a feature story can vary significantly depending on the publication, the subject matter, and the editorial direction. However, there are some general guidelines and considerations that can help you understand what to expect when writing a feature story.


1. Publication Standards: Different publications have different standards for the length of their feature stories. Some magazines and newspapers may prefer shorter features around 500 words, while others may allow for more extensive pieces that can run several thousand words.


2. Editorial Decision: Ultimately, the length of your feature will be determined by the editor. They will consider the available space in the publication, the importance of the topic, and the overall composition of the issue when making their decision.


3. Content Requirements: The complexity and depth of the story you are telling will also influence the length. Some stories may require a more extensive exploration and thus will naturally be longer.


4. Reader Engagement: Feature stories aim to engage readers on a deeper level. This means that the length should be sufficient to develop the narrative and characters without overwhelming the reader.


5. Word Count Ranges: While there is no one-size-fits-all answer, most feature articles tend to fall within a range. As mentioned, many start at around 500 words, but can extend to 1000, 1500, or even 2000 words or more for in-depth pieces.


6. Flexibility: It's important to be flexible with the length of your feature story. Editors may request that you expand on certain sections or cut down on others to fit the publication's needs.

7.
Quality over Quantity: Remember that the quality of the content is more important than hitting a specific word count. A well-written, engaging feature story is more valuable than a long, meandering one.

8.
Purpose and Audience: Consider the purpose of your feature and the audience you are writing for. This will help guide the length and depth of your story.

9.
Visual Elements: Feature stories often include photographs, illustrations, or other visual elements that can complement the text and may influence the overall length of the piece.

10.
Industry Trends: Keep an eye on industry trends and the direction of the publication you are writing for. Some publications may be moving towards shorter, more digestible content, while others may be embracing longer-form journalism.

In conclusion, while there is no definitive answer to how long a feature story has to be, it's a combination of the publication's requirements, the story's demands, and the editor's vision. As a writer, it's crucial to be adaptable and to focus on crafting a compelling narrative that resonates with readers, regardless of the final word count.

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Length. The length of the feature will be specified by the editor. While most feature articles are at least 500 words in length, the editor may decide that they need something a bit shorter due to page layout. Also, don't be surprised if some of your features end up being 2000 words or more.Nov 30, 2009read more >>