How to write a short article: title, opening, body, ending
Short answer: A short article has a title, an opening that tells the reader what it is about, two or three body paragraphs and a short ending. Choose one topic, give each paragraph one point, use facts and examples, and end with a final thought or a call to the reader.
🎯 I can write a short article with three parts.
At a glance
| Part | Job | Example |
|---|---|---|
| title | names the topic | Why Sleep Matters |
| opening | introduces the topic | Sleep is as important as food. |
| body paragraphs | one point each | Sleep helps memory. Sleep helps mood. |
| ending | final thought | Tonight, go to bed a little earlier. |
How to write it
- Pick a topic and write a short title.
- Write a one or two sentence opening that says what the article is about.
- Write two or three body paragraphs, each with one point and an example.
- End with a final thought, then check titles, verbs and joining words.
A model text
Why Sleep Matters
Sleep is as important as food and water. Many people forget this, but a good night’s sleep makes the next day easier.
First, sleep helps memory. While we sleep, the brain stores what we learned, so students remember more.
Second, sleep improves mood. A rested person is calmer and more patient.
Tonight, try going to bed a little earlier. You may be surprised.
- The title names the topic.
- Each body paragraph makes one point.
- The ending gives a call to the reader.
Common mistakes
No title and no ending.→ Add a title and a short ending.
An article has a beginning and an end.One long block of text.→ Split it into short paragraphs, one point each.
One point per paragraph.Sleep is good. Food is good. Water is good.→ Sleep is good for memory and for mood.
Join and develop ideas.
Paragraph and article
An article is built from several paragraphs.
| Text | Parts | Length |
|---|---|---|
| paragraph | topic, details, closing | 4–6 sentences |
| article | title, opening, body, ending | 3–5 paragraphs |
Check yourself
- What does the opening do?
Show the answer
Tells the reader the topic. Keep it short.
- How many points per body paragraph?
Show the answer
One. Add an example.
- How can an article end?
Show the answer
With a final thought or a call to the reader. Keep it short.
Rule cards that help
- Linking sentences: also, however, for example, in the end: also, however, for example and in the end connect sentences. They start a new sentence, so put a full stop before them.
Sounds that help
- Rhythm & Chunking: Read an article in chunks
- Longer Word Stress: Long words: one big beat
Questions
How long is a short article?
About three to five short paragraphs.
Does it need a title?
Yes. A clear title tells the reader the topic.
Where can I practice?
The articles and essays stone has article lessons.
Part of 📰 Articles and essays (stone 4 of the Learning Path). See also the English writing guide. Đọc bằng tiếng Việt.
Written for English learners by the English for Fun team. How we write our lessons · Last updated 2026-11-05.
Reviewed by Chinh Q. Hoang, PhD, founder, English for Fun · 2026-10-30