Advanced journalism
The use of idioms in journalism
Journalists producing serious news coverage must always write in a way that is clear, accurate, free from jargon.
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.
Editorial independence during elections
Election coverage is one of the most critical responsibilities of the media. It shapes public discourse, informs voters, and plays a vital role in safeguarding democracy.
The importance of keeping records
Journalists who want to inform the audience need to keep records so that they can add context to breaking news stories without having to rely on others for background information
Old news is no news, updates are essential
Journalism involves an ongoing commitment to update and rework the material we are producing to ensure that it remains relevant, reflects latest developments, and continues to inform.
Data journalism – resources and tools
We have compiled a list of some of the leading resources and tools that are available for those starting out in data journalism.
Tips for motivating journalists
Daily news meetings should be inclusive and agenda-setting. Editors must foster a culture of original ideas and risk-taking to keep staff motivated and alert.
Making a documentary
A free step-by-step guide for journalists who want to learn how to make documentaries.
Avoiding manipulation
One of the roles of the journalist is to scrutinise the decisions made by politicians and report the implications to the public.
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.
Media safety during elections
Journalists covering elections should never carry a weapon, should have first aid training, dress appropriately, listen to the locals and avoid confrontation.
Beyond basic fact-checking
Fact-checking is a complex, evidence-based process which goes beyond simple verification, demanding critical thinking and contextual analysis.
Making documentaries for radio
Documentaries are in-depth stories told in a more interesting way. A great documentary engages listeners and puts them at the heart of the storytelling.
Systems thinking for journalists
Systems thinking empowers journalists to provide deeper more meaningful news coverage by moving beyond surface-level reporting to uncover underlying related facts.
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.
Journalists and politicians
Journalism is often referred to as “the fourth estate”, and is seen as being crucial to the functioning of a healthy and fair society.
Handling breaking news
Journalists need to have a system in place for covering a breaking news story in order to know who does what and when.
Using AI for story development
How artificial intelligence (AI) can help a journalist brainstorm a story in order to discover multiple news angles
Forms of information disorder
With the spread of fake news, journalists need to recognise and understand the different categories, types, elements, and phases of information disorder.
False equivalence and false balance
Journalists can sometimes present an inaccurate or false version of events by trying too hard to 'balance' a story or incorrectly treating elements of a story as being roughly equal.
The glossary of Information disorder
The following information disorder glossary is designed to help journalists understand the most common terms used.
Causes of climate change
Journalists must avoid providing false equivalence and false balance when covering news stories – particularly climate change.
Covering climate change
Reporting on climate change presents journalists with major hurdles, as it's a topical, controversial subject rooted in complex scientific research.