News is information about recent, interesting, significant events or developments. It is often based on facts but may also include opinions. It is intended to inform, educate, inspire or entertain. It is important that news stories are impartial and accurate, especially when they are reported in the media.
News comes from a wide range of sources and can cover all aspects of human activity, including but not limited to; politics, business, sport, weather, war, crime, natural disasters, environmental issues, agriculture, technology, health and culture. It can be sourced from both traditional and new media, such as newspapers, magazines, radio, television and the internet. The content of the news may be determined by various factors, such as social and cultural values, morals, ethics, the influence of power and money, public interest and demand, and the political and economic climate.
When writing a news article, it is important to start with a strong headline that will grab attention and set the scene for what the article will be about. It is likely that the headline will be written by other members of a publication’s staff but it is up to the writer to ensure that it has all the key information included. The lead paragraph will then come to the fore and should be constructed in such a way as to provide a preview of the main points of the article without giving away any details which would spoil the story. The lead should contain the basic questions of who, what, where, when and why.
The body of the news article then follows, giving detailed accounts of what happened and why it is significant. It is important to use the basic principles of journalistic writing, such as stating the facts, using active voice and keeping sentences short and clear. It is helpful to read other news articles or watch news broadcasts for ideas of how these principles are applied.
It is a good idea to have a human element at the heart of the story; whether this be how it affects one or many people, how it will change their lives and even what makes it happen. This will add a level of interest and empathy for the story, which will make the reader more willing to continue reading the article. In the end, the news article should come to a close which is usually a restatement of the leading statement and includes a byline (the writer’s name). The ending should also indicate potential future developments.