A featured story is a longform piece of non-fiction content that covers a single topic in depth. This type of content is often used in news publications but increasingly, brands are also leveraging this type of storytelling to inform, persuade or inspire their audiences.

Feature stories use a range of elements to paint a richer, more detailed picture for readers. These include describing scenes, character development and anecdotes. They can also go beyond a traditional news story structure by using structures like thematic arrangements or chronology.

They also delve beneath the surface, unpacking complexity and questioning assumptions. Great feature writing is about more than announcing the facts; it’s about captivating your audience from start to finish.

Whether it’s an in-depth profile of a person or an unpacking of a complex issue, a well-written feature is sure to grab and hold your reader’s attention. Here’s how to make your next one unforgettable.

The best way to capture your reader’s imagination is by taking them on a journey they won’t forget. By adding sensory details, introducing compelling characters and building a narrative that pulls them in, you can build an experience for your reader that will stick with them.