Basic journalism
What is news?
What is news? Beyond facts, it’s the stories that truly matter to people. Explore why human interest and personal relevance are at the heart of every headline.
Including the human angle in news
For news organisations to succeed, they must attract and retain audiences. The human touch is vital for building trust and engagement.
Pitching a news story to an editor
Whether you're a journalist or reporter, learn how to pitch stories effectively to ensure they are accepted by your editor every time.
SIFT for fact-checking
Journalists who are committed to fact-checking, as we should all be, have several methods available to help them deal with fake news.
The power of quotes in journalism
Quotes can define an era, a person, or a story. Used thoughtfully, they transform reporting from factual to memorable, from clear to compelling.
The qualities of a journalist
Journalism is a demanding profession that requires a unique combination of intellectual curiosity, linguistic skill, and a deep understanding of the world.
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.
Spotting a news story
How does a journalist know when they are on the right track? What are the telltale signs that distinguish fact from fiction?
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
Interviewing for video journalists
Tips about the steps a video journalist can take to enhance the quality of filmed interviews.
The evolution of an original news story
Original journalism starts with a question. Our investigations transform enquiries into vital news stories with far-reaching consequences.
Fact-checking and adding context
An essential part of the editorial process is to examine everything we are told to make sure it is factual.
Writing a radio news script
Radio journalists must write clear scripts that weave together compelling audio clips, ensuring listeners understand a news story's significance.
Constructing a news package for radio
This is a short training module setting out the basics for creating a news package for radio. It's been created for those starting out in radio journalism.
Using the right words
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.
Shoe-leather reporting
Digital noise is everywhere, but shoe-leather reporting - getting out and talking to people - remains a foundational skill for the modern journalist.
Creating broadcast news packages
Discover how to create concise, compelling TV and radio packages that capture audience attention and deliver key information effectively.
What is news?
What is news? Beyond facts, it’s the stories that truly matter to people. Explore why human interest and personal relevance are at the heart of every headline.
Journalism and the public interest
All news stories should, by definition, be interesting. They should immediately capture the attention and make the audience want to know more.
Adjectives and adverbs in journalism
When it comes to writing - not just news writing but any kind of writing - adjectives and adverbs have a bad reputation.
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.
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.
Journalism’s roles and responsibilities
Journalism demands a diverse skill set across various roles. Explore the different tasks and career paths available to modern journalists in our guide.