What are the three types of news
In journalism, news is typically categorized into three main types:
- Hard News: Also known as "hard news" or "straight news," this type of news reports on factual, objective information about a specific event, issue, or situation. Hard news stories typically follow a standard structure, including:
- A clear and concise headline
- A brief summary of the story
- A detailed account of the event or issue
- Quotes from relevant individuals or experts
- A summary of the main points
Examples of hard news stories might include:
- A natural disaster, such as a hurricane or earthquake
- A political scandal or controversy
- A major crime or arrest
- A significant economic development or policy change
- Soft News: Also known as "feature news" or "human-interest news," this type of news focuses on more personal, human stories that are often less time-sensitive than hard news. Soft news stories might include:
- Profiles of individuals or groups
- Human-interest stories about everyday people and their experiences
- Features on trends, lifestyles, or cultural phenomena
- In-depth reporting on social issues or community concerns
Examples of soft news stories might include:
- A profile of a local artist or musician
- A story about a community's response to a natural disaster
- A feature on a new restaurant or business in the area
- A report on a social issue, such as poverty or education
- Analysis/Commentary: This type of news provides interpretation, analysis, or opinion on a particular issue or event. Analysis/commentary pieces might include:
- Opinion editorials (op-eds) or columns
- Analysis of data or research on a specific topic
- Commentary on current events or trends
- Interviews with experts or thought leaders
Examples of analysis/commentary pieces might include:
- An op-ed on a political issue
- An analysis of economic data and its implications
- A commentary on a cultural trend or phenomenon
- An interview with a thought leader on a specific topic
It's worth noting that these categories are not mutually exclusive, and many news stories may blend elements of multiple types. Additionally, the lines between hard news, soft news, and analysis/commentary can blur, and different news organizations may have different approaches to categorizing their content.