A news flash is a piece of information that is broadcast or published quickly to alert readers to something important. This can include breaking news, such as a terrorist attack or natural disaster, or it could be an announcement of a major event that will take place later in the day.
Like other types of writing, there are a few key components to making a news story compelling. The first paragraph, known as the lead or flash, is your chance to catch readers’ attention and keep them engaged. It should be powerful and enticing, using a narrative hook or anecdote to engage readers. It’s also a great opportunity to use the show, don’t tell approach to writing. For example, rather than telling readers that Johnny ran up a hill, you might describe his puffing cheeks and labored breathing to create a more vivid image for readers.
Once you’ve captured your audience, follow the inverted pyramid style to convey the most important facts of your story. Then, add a nut graph that adds context to your story and explains why it matters. Finally, include quotes from experts or witnesses to lend credibility and provide perspective. Lastly, finish your article with a forward-looking element that shows how the story will remain relevant in the future.
Although most of us will never need to write this type of article for a newspaper or magazine, understanding how to do it well can help you be more persuasive in other kinds of writing. Whether you’re writing an op-ed, a blog post, or an essay, following this news reporting formula will ensure that your work is informative and engaging.