1.
Do your homework.
Instead of waiting for great stories at your office, go out there and do your research.
Get to know the latest stories that you can write about.
Ensure that you pick those ones that will be appreciated by your target market.
If you're writing for tabloids, stick with issues in your local community, entertainment, police reports, etc.
You can also write feature articles or editorials depending on your assignment.
If you're writing for broadsheets, you would want to write articles on more important news such as those that are related to politics, sports, government, economy, etc.
2.
Research your chosen stories thoroughly.
You cannot afford to leave any stone unturned when doing your research.
Remember, it is your job to deliver complete, in-depth information to your readers.
So, always dig deeper.
Get all the data that you need using all possible ways.
Ensure that your readers will not need to check out other relevant articles just to get a clear picture on the stories that you're covering.
3.
Stick with facts.
Integrity and credibility are very important in the field of journalism.
If you don't have them, I doubt if publishers will even consider hiring you.
Always stick with facts when writing your articles and try your hardest not to mislead or misinform your readers.
Also, don't even try to exaggerate your stories or overstretch the truth.
Believe me, this will not help you succeed in this field.
4.
Keep it short.
Always deliver your data as they are.
As you would surely want to help your editors save some precious space, tell your stories using as few words as possible.