Three things I've learned in feature writing so far

Life in features writing class has been interesting to date. I've learned several things about writing that hadn't seemed as important to me before.

Writing features gives me much more freedom to be creative in the way I write and to do more than report "just the facts." The more personable the stories, the better the read.

Quotes, quotes and more quotes (and, of course the attributions that go with them!) are very important in making the stories real to our readers. For example, stories need quotes. Some great examples of students' writing can be found here.

Photos are also a great plus. They can really help move the story along. The review of Heath Ledger's portrayal in the Dark Knight uses an awesome photo.

Deadlines are just as important in features writing as in any other aspect of journalism. Don't miss the quote, don't miss the photo op, don't miss the deadline boat!