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Preserving the fundamentals of good journalism
Media Helping Media (MHM) works to safeguard the core principles of public-service journalism. We offer free training materials in multiple formats designed to be downloaded, adapted, and used worldwide.
More than 200 articles on best practice
More than 100 free training resources
Try our introduction to journalism curriculum then take the MHM news professionalism test.
Find out Introduction to interviews
The interview is one of the basic tools of journalism. You cannot be a good journalist without being a good interviewer and a careful listener.
The evolution of an original news story
Impactful and original journalism often begins with the answer to a question which, after thorough investigation, develops into a news story with significant implications.
Court reporting for beginners
Reporting on court hearings requires an understanding of local laws and knowing what can be reported and what can‘t.
Offence and journalism
Journalists must ensure that the material they use in coverage has a clear editorial purpose. Where that material is likely to offend, there need to be clear warnings of what is coming up.
Accuracy in journalism
A piece of journalism should have many admirable qualities but one is more important than all the rest: accuracy. Rule Number One is: get it right. If you cannot appreciate and respect that rule, there is no point in going into journalism.
Why editorial ethics are important
The Media Helping Media ethics section is designed to help journalists navigate some of the challenges they might face as they go about their work.
Specialisation in journalism
Some journalists decide to become specialists in specific areas, such as health, crime, the environment etc. These are known as "rounds" or "beats."
How to spot errors in your writing
Most journalists need a second pair of eyes to check through their copy in order to spot any factual, grammatical or spelling mistakes.
Handling story leaks and tip-offs
A critical factor for journalists when handling and disseminating leaked material is the need to take account of the motives of the leaker.
The investigative journalism dossier
Discipline, order and a well thought out plan are essential for successful investigative journalism.
The investigative journalism mindset
The investigative mindset is responsible for solving more information mysteries than probably any other factor. If you haven’t started writing down your best strategies now might be the time to start.
AI and investigative journalism
The landscape of investigative journalism is undergoing a significant transformation, with artificial intelligence (AI) emerging as a powerful ally for reporters.
Story development techniques
Journalists need to look for related stories, angles, or missing pieces of a story in order to help the audience understand the importance of the issue being covered.
Adopting the ‘big story’ approach
Planning is critically important in the news business. It’s the mark of professionalism and the essence of good coverage. But there are some things you can’t plan.Big stories happen out of the blue. And when they happen you have to spring into action immediately.
Convergence: workflows, roles and responsibilities
A converged newsroom operates like a 'content factory', with a centralised 'command and control' desk responsible for all news intake, production and output.
Audience research and segmentation
In a rapidly shifting media landscape, where consumers have more choice than ever, a deep understanding of the audience has become essential for all media companies.
Creating a distinctive radio station sound
A radio station can only achieve impact if it has a unique and consistent sound and delivers content that the listeners can relate to.
Creating a current affairs programme
In this article we look at the steps involved in creating a radio news and current affairs programme based on the needs of the target audience.
Journalistic ethics – scenario
In this scenario a reporter feels ethically compromised after accepting hospitality from a developer who subsequently pressured them for favourable coverage.
Photo journalism – scenario
In this scenario a reporter tells the newsdesk that she has a strong news story only to find that the facts were not as they seemed.
Public interest – scenario
This scenario looks at some of the issues that need to be considered when deciding whether a story is in the public interest.
Tool: Optimism index for media trainers
The 'Optimism Index' is a tool designed for trainers of group journalism sessions to gauge and ultimately improve the participants' hope for the future.
Designing a media training plan
A well-designed media training plan could make the difference between the success and the failure of a media business.
How media assistance could improve
Trainers have as much to learn as they have to give. That’s the message to those offering media assistance in transition and post-conflict countries from some of those on the receiving end.
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