Objectives of an Article

Objectivity has long been a fundamental requirement for newspaper journalism. An article analyses, interprets and provide arguments for and against an idea. An article writer should have overall view of the topic and should provide examples to substantiate the points.

1.       To Inform

The main purpose of an article is to inform the responder of current news items as quickly, simply and objectively as possible without excluding relevant information and facts.

2.      To Interpret

Interpret various viewpoints of an event, issue or a recent trend.

3.      To Analyze

Analyze the current situation based on the background information, opinions and facts.

4.      Be Unbiased

Personal biases should not influence an article. The news article is reported fairly and accurately, uninfluenced by any person, political, social, financial organisation.

5.      Be Accurate

The material is accurate information and not opinion or speculation. The facts are having superior priority in an article.

How an Article differs from an Editorial

1. An article is a general word that is used for all news stories covering events, natural disasters, accidents, meets and discussions, etc.

2. Editorial is a special article that appears in a newspaper and carries the opinions of the editorial board on the issue discussed.

3. The editorial staff decides the events and issues that need opinions of the editorial staff.

4. An editorial is meant to persuade people to think along the lines of the newspaper. It is an attempt to influence the thinking of the people.

5. Editorial is opinionated whereas general articles are unbiased and free from subjectivity.49