A breaking news story is an event that occurs suddenly and requires immediate attention. Examples of breaking news include a fire, an accident or a natural disaster. It can also be a political scandal, such as impeachment of the president or a major scandal in Congress. Breaking news often sparks intense public interest and is followed closely by news outlets, who race to be the first to report it.
A great online breaking news article begins with an engaging headline that captures the reader’s attention. The headline should contain the key facts of the story and be written in a way that evokes urgency, such as a timeline of events. It is often accompanied by a short quote from an eyewitness or a photo. A good breaking news story also includes a nut graph that places the new developments in context and provides answers to the five Ws (who, what, when, where and why) and one H (how).
The heart of a breaking news story is its core detail, or lede. This element is crucial for capturing reader attention and keeping them engaged throughout the piece. It should be brief and direct, using simple language that is easy for readers to understand. It should also avoid sensationalizing the news or making assumptions. Private citizens can make assumptions, but journalists must confirm facts and avoid speculating to maintain their credibility.
In the age of social media, a false report about a breaking news event can spread quickly. NPR, for example, erroneously reported that Giffords died in the shooting, which was quickly confirmed as untrue by authorities. It is important for journalists to check the facts with sources, even when they are in the middle of a crisis and have little time to do so.
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