BSJ Magazine and Feature Writing

Question 1

What primarily distinguishes a feature story from a hard news story?

Accepted Answer

Features use a narrative style and are not time-sensitive

Answer

Feature stories use narrative techniques and humanizing elements and are not bound by the immediacy of breaking news.

Question 2

What is the 'nut graf' in feature writing?

Accepted Answer

The paragraph that establishes the story's relevance and main point

Answer

The nut graf explains why the story matters and what it is about, typically appearing early in the piece after the hook.

Question 3

Which narrative technique uses a compelling story about one individual to introduce a broader topic?

Accepted Answer

Anecdotal lead

Answer

An anecdotal lead draws readers in by focusing on a specific person or event before expanding to the larger issue.

Question 4

What does 'service journalism' refer to?

Accepted Answer

Content that provides practical, actionable information to readers

Answer

Service journalism provides useful information readers can apply to their own lives, such as how-to guides and consumer advice.

Question 5

In magazine writing, what is a 'sidebar'?

Accepted Answer

A secondary story that complements the main feature

Answer

A sidebar is a shorter, related story placed alongside the main feature to provide additional context or supplementary information.

BSJ - Bachelor of Journalism Practice Test