Writing for the Media
writing for the media
make it easier
-summarize data into bullet points
-break out boxes (graphics charts)
-highlight key words or phrases with boldface or color
the nonverbal subtexts
-make it personal
-online audience might benefit from “you” and “i” more than print
-give readers what they want not what you want
-short attention spans-give them information that speaks to them
move beyond words
-write in layers
-use audio video or graphics
writing the story
find a story
-what’s the news?
-What’s the point?
-How can i tell it in three to six words?
-So what?
Hourglass story structure
latest most important developments
one persons experience
summary conclusion
Diamond structure
one person’s experience
issue illustrated by that person’s experience
what happens next, illustrated by the same person
christmas tree
one persons situation
how or why this happened
conclusion: what it all means
achieving focus through the humanized interview
-humanize stories… ask how does it effect you questions?
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