Advanced

Our advanced section explores specialised topics for experienced journalists seeking to deepen their expertise. Develop your skills in data journalism, multimedia storytelling, investigative techniques, and complex narrative structures that elevate reporting to the next level. All our material is free to download, adapt and use. Scroll down our site map for all the content in this and other sections.

Image of a journalist covering a health beat/round - created using Imagen 3 by David Brewer of MHM

Health reporting for beginners

Most journalists are generalists, who can cover any kind of story. But there is also a place for specialists, providing expertise on particular subjects.

Image to illustrate specialist reporting created with Google Gemini

Specialisms in journalism

Specialist reporting means going beyond general news coverage in order to develop deep expertise, insight and trust in a particular subject area.

Evidence-based reporting

This guide provides a framework for journalists to compile in-depth reports on any topic by ensuring that all they write is based on verifiable facts.

Image of a media lawyer - created using Imagen 3 by David Brewer of MHM

The role of the media lawyer

Many news stories involve straightforward reporting on events, but some more complex stories might require legal advice before they are published.

Current affairs programme training in Vinh, Vietnam - image by MHM

Planning a radio current affairs programme

Explore the difference between radio news and daily current affairs programmes, and learn how they work together to keep audiences fully informed.

Image of a confidential document changing hands - created using Imagen 3 by David Brewer of MHM

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.

Image of a climate change rally created with Gemini Imagen 3 AI by Media Helping Media

Climate change glossary

The following is a list of some of the common climate change terms used by scientists, environmental agencies, governments, activists, and journalists.

Graphic for a Media Helping Media Training Tool

Tool: Story Weighting System

Different news stories have a different value for your audience and for your business. Giving news items a 'weighting' can lead to impact and efficiencies.

Journalists James Innocent Ali (background) and Bakhita Aluel recording links at Radio Easter in South Sudan.

Editing audio for radio news

We edit audio when airtime is limited. Always consult your editor or producer on the required duration before starting any edits to ensure the item fits.

Slide by David Brewer released via Creative Commons BY-NC-SA 4.0.

Managing a news website’s front page

The journalist in charge of a news website is like a shopkeeper who sets out their stall. If the items are badly displayed the customer might miss them, if they are not fresh people won't buy them.

An image of a fact-checking unit created using Microsoft's AI Image Designer

Dealing with algorithmic bias in news

Journalists need to be trained in how to recognise and deal with algorithm bias in order to counter the speed and scale at which biased content spreads.