You just read about the types of articles you can write for a 'zine, newspaper, or magazine. Hopefully, your creative juices are already flowing! These tips will help you sharpen your skills.

WRITING TIPS

• Capture the reader's interest with a compelling lead – the opening paragraph of the article. Sort of like your "topic sentence."
• Use quotes: Interview others. People's opinions add color to any article (and who doesn't love to see their name in print?)
• Use details: Think of yourself as an artist and use your words to paint a picture. Be descriptive by showing/telling what happened.
• Back up your articles with relevant statistics and facts – they always help to spice up any piece.
• Read, read, read: The more newspapers and magazines you read, the easier it will be for you to adopt your own writing style.
• Always spell check!

BE HONEST
Journalists have a lot of responsibility. Readers have faith that what they are reading is accurate. So, when you're reporting, always make good observations. Consider different points of view and stick to the facts. And, ALWAYS double check any and every fact before submitting it. Nothing loses a writer his credibility more quickly than misinformation.

GET PUBLISHED
If you haven't done so already, start a 'zine and keep your friends and family informed! Or, start a fan page. You can decorate and design, write and publish your very own 'zine right here with Miss O & Friends!

Also try joining the Newspaper Club at school. See if your local newspaper has a special section for young writers, or write a letter to the editor. And, hey, before you know it, you could be writing for us! :) CLICK HERE to submit your own news story for consideration by Miss O & Friends.