A news bulletin is an essential part of a radio station’s schedule. It gives listeners a daily update on news events, with a balance of light and heavy stories, covering local and national issues. The format of a bulletin will depend to some extent on the type of station, for example, serious national broadcasters may run more serious political news and stories whereas a youth-oriented music station will focus on social developments and popular culture.
The content of a news bulletin is also important and the quality of reading can make a significant difference in how an audience responds. A good newsreader will be able to engage and entertain the listener, keeping their attention with a steady pace and avoiding the kind of long complicated stories which cause them to switch off.
Often, it is a matter of timing. A story about a fire, for example, will need short snappy sentences which convey simple ideas and a fast pace. On the other hand, a long complicated story such as an explanation of a complex political issue may need longer sentences and words to express more difficult concepts and a slower pace.
Always take more copy into the studio than you need, in case you are unlucky with a piece of audio which will not play. Glance at the studio clock regularly to check your timing and keep a note of how long you think each story should last. This will enable you to judge how quickly or slowly you should read each item and ensure that you have a balanced and interesting bulletin.