Basics
For those starting off in a career in journalism, including what makes news, how to write a story, interviewing tips, and fact-checking.
News sources and the ‘so what’ factor
Every news story needs at least one reliable source that is able to share information that helps the journalist get to the facts.
Essential elements of a news story
Pyramid journalism and the essential elements for writing a news story.
How to spot a news story
What are the telltale signs that help journalists distinguish fact from fiction, and how do they know when they have uncovered an important news story?
Developing important news angles
Seeking out new angles on a breaking, developing or running news story is an important part of the editorial process.
How to create a broadcast news package
Discover how to create concise, compelling TV and radio packages that capture audience attention and deliver information effectively.
Clichés, journalese, and jargon
Journalists need to recognise and then avoid using journalese, jargon, and clichés. Their writing must be clear, easy to understand, and informative.
Protected: How to carry out an interview remotely
Here we look at some of the important issues journalists face when interviewing sources in another location via electronic media rather than face-to-face and in real time.
Lateral reading
When it comes to fact-checking and adding context to news articles, journalists need to apply ‘lateral reading’ in order to broaden their knowledge.
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Refresher: Fact-checking for journalists
This compressed one-day course provides an intensive overview of the essentials considerations for journalists regarding fact-checking and combating information disorder in the digital age.
Managing people and setting objectives
Media managers need to set clear objectives for all staff in order to get the best out of those who work for the news organisation.
Fake news and trust chains
"Fake news" encompasses two distinct concepts: fabricated stories masquerading as truth and the dismissal of legitimate news as false.