Rules of news writing

Here are some common rules of news writing:

1. Accuracy: Verify facts and information before writing the story. Ensure that the information is accurate, reliable, and unbiased.
2. Objectivity: Report the news without expressing personal opinions or biases. Stick to the facts and avoid sensationalism.
3. Clarity: Use clear and concise language to convey the message. Avoid using jargon or technical terms that may confuse readers.
4. Concise: Keep the story concise and to the point. Aim for a length that is easy to read and understand.
5. Focus: Focus on the most important information and avoid including unnecessary details.
6. Use active voice: Use active voice instead of passive voice to make the writing more engaging and easier to read.
7. Use quotes: Use quotes from sources to add depth and context to the story. Make sure to identify the source and provide context for the quote.
8. Use attributions: Use attributions to credit sources and provide context for the information. This includes citing experts, officials, or other sources.
9. Avoid clichés: Avoid using clichés and overused phrases that can make the writing seem lazy or unoriginal.
10. Use proper grammar and punctuation: Use proper grammar and punctuation to ensure that the writing is clear and easy to read.
11. Use headlines effectively: Use headlines to grab the reader's attention and provide a clear summary of the story.
12. Use subheads: Use subheads to break up the story and provide a clear summary of the main points.
13. Use bullet points and lists: Use bullet points and lists to present complex information in a clear and concise manner.
14. Use photos and graphics: Use photos and graphics to add visual interest and help illustrate the story.
15. Fact-check: Fact-check the story before publication to ensure that the information is accurate and reliable.
16. Use a clear and concise lead: Use a clear and concise lead to grab the reader's attention and provide a summary of the story.
17. Use a logical structure: Use a logical structure to organize the story and make it easy to follow.
18. Avoid using jargon: Avoid using jargon or technical terms that may confuse readers.
19. Use a conversational tone: Use a conversational tone to make the writing more engaging and accessible.
20. Edit and proofread: Edit and proofread the story carefully to ensure that it is accurate, clear, and free of errors.

Additionally, here are some specific guidelines for different types of news writing:

• Hard news: Focus on the most important information and avoid using sensational language.
• Feature stories: Use a more conversational tone and focus on the human interest aspect of the story.
• Editorials: Express a clear opinion and provide evidence to support the argument.
• Op-eds: Provide a personal perspective on a topic and avoid using sensational language.
• Investigative reporting: Focus on uncovering new information and providing in-depth analysis.

Remember that these are general guidelines, and the specific rules of news writing may vary depending on the publication, style guide, or genre of writing.