Developing news angles stories and pitches

Here are some tips on developing news angles, stories, and pitches:

Developing News Angles:

  1. Identify the who, what, where, when, and why: Start by gathering the basic facts of the story, including the people involved, the event or issue, the location, the timing, and the reasons behind the story.
  2. Look for the human interest angle: Try to find a personal or emotional connection to the story. This can make it more relatable and engaging for readers.
  3. Find the unique or unexpected twist: Look for something that sets the story apart from others. This could be a surprising revelation, an unusual perspective, or an unexpected consequence.
  4. Consider the impact or significance: Think about how the story affects people's lives or has broader implications. This can help you focus on the most important aspects of the story.
  5. Research and fact-check: Verify the facts and accuracy of the story to ensure it's reliable and trustworthy.

Developing News Stories:

  1. Start with a strong lead: Craft a compelling opening that grabs the reader's attention and sets the tone for the rest of the story.
  2. Use a clear and concise structure: Organize the story in a logical and easy-to-follow manner, using headings, subheadings, and paragraphs to break up the text.
  3. Include quotes and anecdotes: Use quotes from experts, witnesses, or those affected by the story to add depth and context. Anecdotes can also help illustrate a point or make the story more relatable.
  4. Use vivid and descriptive language: Use sensory details to bring the story to life and help readers visualize the scene or situation.
  5. Keep it concise and focused: Aim for a clear and concise story that stays on topic and avoids unnecessary tangents or details.

Developing News Pitches:

  1. Start with a strong headline: Craft a attention-grabbing headline that summarizes the story and entices readers to click or read on.
  2. Highlight the unique angle or twist: Emphasize what sets the story apart from others and why it's worth covering.
  3. Provide context and background: Give readers a sense of the bigger picture and how the story fits into the larger narrative.
  4. Include key quotes or statistics: Use quotes or statistics to add credibility and depth to the pitch.
  5. Keep it concise and focused: Aim for a brief and to-the-point pitch that gets straight to the point and avoids unnecessary details.

Additional Tips:

  1. Be creative and think outside the box: Don't be afraid to think creatively and come up with unique angles or approaches.
  2. Use social media and online resources: Research and gather information from social media, online news sources, and other online resources to stay up-to-date and informed.
  3. Network and build relationships: Build relationships with sources, experts, and other journalists to stay informed and get tips on potential stories.
  4. Stay organized and focused: Use tools like to-do lists, calendars, and project management software to stay organized and focused on your work.
  5. Continuously improve and adapt: Stay open to feedback and criticism, and be willing to adjust your approach and pitch as needed.

By following these tips, you can develop strong news angles, stories, and pitches that capture readers' attention and keep them engaged.