Hosted by the Fojo Media Institute
Media Helping Media is hosted by the Fojo Media Institute at Linnaeus University.
Journalism Basics
Our basics section provides foundational knowledge for journalists starting their careers and for those wanting to refresh their skills. Learn techniques including news writing, interviewing, story structure, and reporting practices that form the bedrock of quality journalism. All our material is free to download, adapt and use.
What editors look for when hiring
What's the best preparation for a career in journalism? Media Helping Media asked some experts in the field what they look for when hiring staff.
Interviewing ‘off the record’
Sources sometimes agree to talk to journalists ‘off the record’. Here we examine what that means and how to handle such a request.
Talking to...
News writing for beginners
A journalist writing a news story is the author, organiser and decision maker. Without them the story may never be told.
Covering a news event
Check our news event coverage guide with tips on preparation, on-site reporting, ethical interviews, and capturing compelling photos and video.
Reporting from conflict zones
When reporting from a conflict zone a journalist needs to be sensitive, understand history and cultural issues, and put people first
Letting the pictures tell the story
Here we explore the importance of visual storytelling in TV and video journalism, showing you how to let the pictures tell the story.
Using the right words in journalism
Words are the essential tools of journalism. They convey meaning and help the audience understand the issues we are covering. So they need to be used properly.
Crime reporting for beginners
Crime journalists must balance the public’s right to know with ethics, ensuring accuracy and sensitivity while avoiding sensationalism or prejudice.
Court reporting for beginners
Learn essential court reporting tips for beginners, covering legal constraints, accuracy, and how to report trial verdicts fairly and professionally.
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.
Parliamentary reporting for beginners
To cover parliament, a journalist must master local laws, procedure, and political parties, backed by a solid grasp of history.
Gender equality in the media
Addressing gender imbalance in media requires a multifaceted approach from journalists, combining personal initiative with essential systemic change.
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Content released under Creative Commons
The content on Media Helping Media (MHM) is released via Creative Commons BY NC SA 4.0.