- News stories often run or repeat on web sites, etc., for extended time periods. Newspapers don’t have space for some stories until days after they occur. Therefore, “recently” is often the best way to reference the time frame. Obviously, children wearing Halloween costumes align with a specific time orientation. In a general way, so are the start and end of the school year. Still, using terms like those would be preferable to specific dates most of the time.
- Make certain of the meaning of words you use. E.g., injuries are not “received,” but rather are “sustained.” It is far more proactive and accurate to say a student “earned the diplomas” than to say he “received” it. He “graduated” is not proper; he “was graduated” is.
- Avoid jargon and acronyms the general public doesn’t understand. Spell out all acronyms on first reference. In news writing, do not place the capitalized letters in parentheses. Do not put periods after each letter, either. Instead, simply use second and later references in all capital letters for that acronym. For example, the Kentucky Association of School Administrators becomes KASA after first reference.
- Photo captions need to tell the entire story – but succinctly. In fact, a photo and caption is the preferable format for most stories. Only relatively major stories need the added detail of separate “copy.” Of course, photos always draw attention.
- Be judicious about what you seek to publicize. A story or photo should have relevance because the event or program is substantive, unique, or interesting for some reason.
- A newspaper column, such as an essay that appears on the editorial page, generally funs approximately 750 words. Rarely does a news story need to be longer. Brevity is a virtue. Don’t make a story any longer than it needs to be. Often, a photo and caption will suffice.
- Finally, revise! A successful writer once said, “There is no such thing a writing; there’s only rewriting.” Check everything to avoid any improper meaning, superfluous words, etc. Proofread, edit, and double check.
What news writing tips would you add to these?