Breaking news events are (often unexpected) occurrences of local, national or international importance that demand special, immediate attention by the media. Breaking news articles should start with a lead that captures readers’ interest and makes them want to keep reading. This lead should answer the five Ws (who, what, when, where and why) and one H (how). Often the lead also includes a dramatic anecdote or surprising fact to add interest and intrigue.
The next paragraphs, known as the nut graph, provide more detail on the event and why it’s important to readers. It is crucial to know your audience and tailor the details to their needs, as well as the facts they already know. It is important not to repeat information that readers already know, or they may be turned off. In addition, it’s essential to know what isn’t news and avoid putting unnecessary information in the lead. For example, it’s not necessary to include eyewitness accounts in a breaking news story unless they are first hand and verified by authorities. Speculation is another no-no for journalists. As NPR’s erroneous report about Gabrielle Giffords shows, assumptions can have disastrous consequences for the public.
After the nut graph is an important timeline to provide context, and finally a short conclusion that summarizes the main points of the story. For example, it’s helpful to remind readers of any potential ramifications of the story and how they could impact their lives. Breaking news articles should be concise and clear, using simple sentences that are easy to understand.