Article

An article is a piece of writing of fixed length devoted to a particular subject, structured with an opening, middle, and conclusion. Articles typically appear in newspapers, magazines, collected volumes, or websites. Their length ranges from several hundred to several thousand words, depending on the publication.

An article may serve as a news report (conveying new information), an explanation (simplifying a complex idea), an analysis (examining an issue from different angles), or an opinion piece (presenting the author's views). Articles are usually signed with the author's name and carry a publication date.

Structure

A typical article contains a headline, a brief introduction posing a question, body sections (sometimes with subheadings), and a conclusion. News articles employ the inverted pyramid style—the most important information appears first, followed by supporting details, allowing the piece to be cut from the bottom without losing its essential meaning.

Types

There are news articles based on reporting, academic articles published in journals after peer review, opinion articles reflecting the stance of the publishing organization, and encyclopedic articles covering a subject comprehensively. Each type has its own standards for citation and language.

Sources and references

Articles in science and encyclopedias rely on clear references: named sources, verifiable facts, and a distinction between fact and opinion. Journalism articles use primary sources, interviews, and documentation. Source verification is used to assess article quality.

Digital change

The internet has transformed how articles are written and distributed. Headlines are optimized for online search, and pieces incorporate images, hyperlinks, and interactive content. Articles can also be updated after publication, creating a clear record of changes.