A news flash is a brief piece of breaking news that updates the audience on current events. It can be local, national or international and can include a mix of hard and soft news. A newsflash can last from one to three minutes and since it is very short, it necessarily skates over some details – only major stories belong here. It is not the place to present opinion or analysis.
A good newsflash starts with a compelling lead that accurately and enticingly conveys what the article is about. This is your chance to catch people’s attention and ensure that they keep listening and not turning away. Use narrative hooks and anecdotes if necessary to create an introductory scene that piques the audience’s interest, then cite your sources at the end of the story to add credibility and legitimacy.
The nut graph that follows the lead should abridge and clarify the facts introduced by your lead, using clear and concise language. It should also cite its sources and, where appropriate, use quotes from experts or witnesses to further bolster the newsflash’s credibility. Finally, a good newsflash should point out any story that will be developed at greater length during the midday or evening news bulletin (as a kind of promotion for your station’s work), and then conclude with practical information – traffic, weather, a summary of a decree etc.
The newsflash is a key element of radio and TV broadcasts, interrupting shows to relay important breaking news. This can be especially true when a major event occurs that demands the immediate attention of the audience.
About the Author
