When people think of news, they often imagine black-and-white journalism in a newspaper or the nightly news on television. But news can also be a simple way to recap current events or share noteworthy information with colleagues. When writing news focused content, it’s important to know how to grab attention and hold readers’ interest.
A strong lede and nut graph are essential to getting your audience to read the rest of your article. The lede should center on what makes the event newsworthy or interesting. Using vivid details helps set the scene and capture reader’s attention, but it’s important to avoid going overboard with adjectives or jargon.
As you move through the story, be sure to include quotes from authoritative sources that add depth and credibility. Quotes should be used sparingly, but should provide new insights, emotions or perspectives that support the key points of your piece. When possible, choose quotes from individuals directly involved in the event, rather than a spokesperson for a group or organization. This ensures the authenticity of your news and creates a more compelling narrative.
Some news stories, such as editorials or analysis pieces, include a personal viewpoint on the subject matter. These should be clearly labeled as such so readers are aware of the bias in the piece. Otherwise, stick to the facts and don’t insert your own opinion into your reporting.