# Two Written Styles

Part of the Journalism Merit Badge Digital Resource Guide: [Introduction & Overview](https://merit-badge.university/merit-badges/journalism/guide/index.md)

*4. Covering Live Events*

> **4a.** Write two articles about the event, one using the inverted pyramid style and one using the chronological style.

This option is all about structure. You are using the same event, facts, and observations twice — but arranging them in two very different ways.

## Inverted Pyramid Style

Inverted pyramid style starts with the most important information first. The lead answers the biggest questions immediately. After that, the story adds supporting details, quotes, and background in descending order of importance.

This style works best when readers may only skim the first few paragraphs. It is common in breaking news and straight reporting.

## Chronological Style

Chronological style tells the event in time order. It helps readers follow how something unfolded from beginning to end. This style often works well when the sequence itself is interesting, such as a ceremony, race, rescue, speech, or contest.

## What Changes Between the Two Versions?

The facts should stay accurate in both stories, but the reading experience changes.

- In the **inverted pyramid** version, the result or central news comes first.
- In the **chronological** version, the reader experiences the event as it happened.

![Comparison showing an inverted pyramid structure beside a chronological timeline of the same event](https://ik.imagekit.io/doulacoop/tr:w-800/mbu-assets/merit-badges/journalism/guide/inverted-pyramid-vs-chronological?v=48c44ec8)

**Before You Draft Both Articles** — Gather material that works in either structure

- [ ] **Lead fact:** What is the single most important thing readers should know?
- [ ] **Timeline:** What happened first, next, and last?
- [ ] **Strong quote:** Which quote adds voice or meaning?
- [ ] **Key detail:** What moment helps readers picture the event?

> **Tip**
>
> Write the inverted pyramid version first if the event had a clear result. Write the chronological version first if the event's sequence was the most interesting part.

This option connects directly to [Req 3d](https://merit-badge.university/merit-badges/journalism/guide/req3d/), where you practiced matching story style to audience and purpose.

Video: [Inverted Pyramid Tutorial — SampsonTube](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FZvgbUoDkYU)

Next, if you want to cover the event in broadcast style instead of written article form, move to Option 4b.

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- Previous: [Choose Your Event Coverage Format](https://merit-badge.university/merit-badges/journalism/guide/req4/index.md)
- Next: [Broadcast Scripts and Reviews](https://merit-badge.university/merit-badges/journalism/guide/req4b/index.md)