1.Start with a STRONG lead

Image of tornado from Scientific American.com

Your leading headline will set the tone of the story for your audience, this should grab their attention and answer your 5 W’s (who, what, when, where , why?) A well-crafted lead not only informs, but also builds trust, showing the audience that the reporter has command of the story and will deliver the facts clearly and accurately. Ultimately, the lead is the foundation of any good broadcast script. BE CREATIVE

Example: “A deadly tornado tears through central Oklahoma tonight—leveling homes, knocking out power, and leaving entire neighborhoods in ruins.”

*It creates urgency and sets a serious tone, signaling that this is a major, developing storydoes.

2.Stick to the FACTS of the story

When writing — especially in news — you must provide accurate sources. Journalism is meant to help your audience form their own opinions about a story while providing clear facts. You should always avoid inserting personal opinions unless you are quoting someone. Journalism plays a vital role in informing the public and should aim to present facts clearly and responsibly. Audiences rely on the news to understand what is happening in their communities, country, and the world. Including opinions, assumptions, or unverified claims can mislead viewers and damage the credibility of the reporter and the news organization.

3.Use ACTIVE Voice

Active voice is when your story is concise, clear, descriptive, and easy to understand. This form of writing is very action-focused and should drive your narrative. Active voice writing is direct, and you should be able to visualize what’s happening in the story you’re reading. Since broadcast writing is meant to be heard, not just read, using active voice ensures that the message is clear the first time it's spoken. Ultimately, it improves the overall flow and impact of the story, making the information more accessible and powerful for the audience.

Example: The Jacksonville police department are investigating a fire at the local bar Saloon near Jacksonville state University.

4. Keep it CLEAR and CONCISE

Broadcast writing is meant to be spoken out loud, so keep your language simple and your sentences short. Avoid jargon, and break down complex topics so they’re easy to understand. Short sentences are easy to read and make the story easier to remember. When writing, you have to remember that everything will be read out loud by someone.

-Time Constraints

-Audience attention

-Stronger impact

-Clarity and Understanding

5.Proofread

Proofreading is an essential step in the writing process, as it ensures clarity, accuracy, and professionalism in any piece of work.

6. End With a STRONG CLOSER

Wrap up your segment with a brief summary or next steps. If it’s an ongoing story, let viewers know what to expect next. Strong closings also can summarize the situation Just like you would make a strong lead, a strong close allows your audience walk away informed of the situation and possibly motivated to learn more.

6 STEPS TO A GOOD NEWS STORY

The Power of Professionalism