A news flash is a short piece of breaking news that keeps listeners updated on topics that affect them. It may be local, national or international and can include a mix of hard and soft news. It is important to remember that a newsflash is not the place for opinion, and it should focus on conveying facts about the topic as quickly as possible.
A good newsflash begins with a compelling headline that accurately and enticingly conveys what the story is about. It should also cite its sources. A strong lede is a must, and it is best to use some sort of narrative anecdote that simultaneously captures readers’ attention and hints at the weightier argument and evidence that will be presented in the rest of the article.
The body of the newsflash should follow the inverted pyramid style, introducing the most important details first and adding supporting information later. It is also a good idea to incorporate quotes from experts and witnesses to add credibility and perspective. Finally, a nut graph is a must and should tie all of the main points into a larger picture to show their significance and direction.
A newsflash is a key component of a radio or television broadcast, and it is vital that it interrupts the program with factual information that is as current as possible. It is often used to give out practical information, such as traffic reports or a weather forecast, and it can also be a way to highlight a humorous news item or a feature story that will be developed in the midday or evening bulletins.