Extreme Makeover - Article Edition

Lynne Thompson has taught a workshop called "Extreme Makeover - Article Edition." Lynne was gracious to share her handout. It has important information to consider as you write your article. She has written articles for pring and Web publications.

Getting to Know the Family/Publisher

• Read the magazine you want to write for. Buy it, borrow it, get it at the library, and check the market guide books. Study it.
• Talk with others that have written for magazines at conferences, critique groups etc.

What to do Before You Send It

• Edit, edit, and edit some more.
• Wait two to three days for fresh eyes to critique and edit again.
• Get a proof reader.
• Read it out loud to someone or use a tape recorder.
• When you send it (snail mail or email) thank your editor for the privilege of writing for the magazine and then ask him to let you are open to make any changes he feels are necessary.
• Don't demand to see his edits.

Staying in Touch

• Make regular connections with new and fresh ideas through queries.
• One idea every two months by email is a good idea.
• Remember that magazines are running four to six months ahead.
• Send them Christmas cards with Starbucks gift card.

Check List for an Article Makeover

Have you:

• Hooked the reader with a story? Shocking fact? New information?
• Appealed to the senses?
• Thought out subtitles that go with your theme?
• Created active verbs? What tense are you in?
• Provided the correct scientific or medical facts?
• Interviewed the professionals?
• Given voice to the reader's conclusions or feelings?
• Quoted an expert i.e. author, psychologist, clergyman for the solution?
• Left the reader hanging in any way?
• Stayed true to the voice of the magazine and its readers?
• Used the Biblical version required?
• Cut to the chase and asked the “so what” question?
• Gone out of the box and asked the hard questions?
• Found someone who has a great testimony that conveys your ideas or solutions?
• Given an answer that is universal or group directed?
• Provided some “take home” information that the reader can apply to his/her life?
• Inspired?
• Given hope?
• Submitted sidebars if needed?
• Written something others will find helpful and interesting?
• Edited to the best of your ability?