First of all it’s new or it has a “news peg” or some kind of angle. It could be either “hard news” such as crime or politics, or it could be “soft news” such as celebrity or animal centred reports. Essentially it is about people doing things, or in some cases animals and it must always be relevant to the audience.
Why are certain stories reported?
Editorial Reasons: The story must be fresh or exclusive or tap into current obsessions, such as dangerous dogs. There must be someone to interview, and something to video or to take pictures of, as quotes and images are the “lifeblood” of a story.
Practical Reasons: Is there space for it? Has a similar story been reported recently?
Who, What, Where, When, Why?
The News Pyramid
Intro: this is your TOP LINE so keep it short and sharp, the latest most interesting information.
Two: Elaboration of other elements, adding colour to the story
Three: Chronology, more detail, why did it happen?
Four: More detail, loose ends
Key Elements to Remember:The News Pyramid
Intro: this is your TOP LINE so keep it short and sharp, the latest most interesting information.
Two: Elaboration of other elements, adding colour to the story
Three: Chronology, more detail, why did it happen?
Four: More detail, loose ends
* It’s about people, so make that your top line (animal if it’s an animal story)
* Have an angle, don’t be passive!
* Be objective, don’t give your opinion, let the audience draw their own conclusions
* Don’t start with a question, you’re giving them the information, not interrogating them
* One idea per sentence and keep them short, 20 to 25 words maximum
* Leave the gobbledygook at home, if you don’t know what it means your audience wont either
Most of all make sure the story is true, check your facts and keep it balanced.
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