essay about being a newscaster

Home — Essay Samples — Sociology — Journalism — Why I Want to Be a Journalist

Why I Want to Be a Journalist

Categories: Community Job Journalism

About this sample

Words: 613 |

Published: Jun 20, 2019

Words: 613 | Page: 1 | 4 min read

Works Cited

Castells, M. (2009). Communication power. Oxford University Press.
Chomsky, N., & Herman, E. S. (2010). Manufacturing consent: The political economy of the mass media. Vintage.
Kovach, B., & Rosenstiel, T. (2014). The elements of journalism: What newspeople should know and the public should expect. Three Rivers Press.
McChesney, R. W. (2013). Digital disconnect: How capitalism is turning the internet against democracy. The New Press.
Merritt, D. (2012). Public journalism and public life: Why telling the news is not enough. Routledge.
Schudson, M. (2013). The sociology of news. WW Norton & Company.
Sigal, L. V. (2014). Reporters and officials: The organization and politics of newsmaking. Transaction Publishers.
Soloski, J. (2020, August 21). Media Bias: Definition, Types, Examples, and Solutions. Investopedia. https://www.investopedia.com/terms/m/media-bias.asp
Stonbely, S. (2015). Journalism and truth: Strange bedfellows. Journal of Mass Media Ethics, 30(2), 87-98.
Tuchman, G. (1978). Making news: A study in the construction of reality. Free Press.

Cite this Essay

Let us write you an essay from scratch

450+ experts on 30 subjects ready to help
Custom essay delivered in as few as 3 hours

Get high-quality help

Verified writer

Expert in: Sociology Life

+ 120 experts online

By clicking “Check Writers’ Offers”, you agree to our terms of service and privacy policy . We’ll occasionally send you promo and account related email

No need to pay just yet!

Related Essays

5 pages / 2335 words

5 pages / 2206 words

4 pages / 1668 words

2 pages / 689 words

Remember! This is just a sample.

You can get your custom paper by one of our expert writers.

121 writers online

Still can’t find what you need?

Browse our vast selection of original essay samples, each expertly formatted and styled

Related Essays on Journalism

Exculpatory language is a term used to describe language that is designed to absolve or excuse someone from blame, responsibility, or guilt. This type of language often appears in legal documents, contracts, and other formal [...]

Truman Capote's groundbreaking non-fiction novel, Cold Blood, is an exemplary work that intricately weaves together the juxtaposition of various elements to create a compelling narrative. Juxtaposition, the act or an instance of [...]

Matthew Todd Lauer, born on December 30, 1957, is an American television news anchor and journalist. He is best known for his work on the NBC News program Today, where he was a co-host from 1997 to 2017. Lauer has also served as [...]

The ability to ask a neutral question is a valuable skill that is often overlooked. A neutral question is one that does not contain bias or influence the response in any way. It allows for open and honest communication, fosters [...]

“Journalists often subconsciously engage in essentially the same process when they decide how to describe the political world. They choose images and words that have the power to influence how audience interpret and evaluate [...]

As readers, we generally presume journalists are a reliable source for news and information. Given this general assumption, it is important that journalists uphold a certain standard of ethics to ensure they are a trustworthy [...]

Get Your Personalized Essay in 3 Hours or Less!

We use cookies to personalyze your web-site experience. By continuing we’ll assume you board with our cookie policy .

Instructions Followed To The Letter
Deadlines Met At Every Stage
Unique And Plagiarism Free

News and Insights

Essay: a young journalist’s reflections on finding a job, her voice, and bringing her community along with her.

Oct 4, 2022

Protest at San Bernardino City Hall around working conditions and environmental standards at Amazon warehouses. credit: Fabian Torres

Editor’s note:

In 2021 we published an Information Ecosystem Assessment documenting the news and information needs of California’s Inland Empire (IE), a region with more than 4 million residents, the majority of them Latinx. This report was the result of 18 months worth of listening to the community and has led to our now three-year long effort to build civic media opportunities and amplify IE voices.

Our original assessment showed a local demand for coverage highlighting environmental and public health topics. We also learned that people in the IE wanted more local voices involved in contextualizing these issues.

With support from the Ford Foundation, and in partnership with NPRs California newsroom and local NPR affiliate KVCR , we launched a community-driven editorial project called, “Unfiltered IE,” with the expressed goals of having local media makers pitch us stories that likely have gone untold, or haven’t been told from a local perspective.

To do this work we needed to hire a community editor who could implement a process that didn’t have a precedent. Someone who could not only guide nine local media makers, many of them with limited professional experiences, journalistically, but a talent coach, a sounding board, and someone with a sympathetic ear and deep understanding of what it’s like to be an aspiring media maker in the Inland Empire.

Thankfully IE native Yvette Vargas answered the LPC call, and we’ll cede this space to her now to share what it’s been like to be our first ever community editor. – Jesse Hardman

Photo of air pollution over the Inland Empire. credit: Fabian Torres

by Yvette Vargas

Depending on who you ask, my town, Fontana , is known for many things: a former agricultural industry, the birthplace of the Kaiser Steel Mill and Hell’s Angels, aggressive winds, and a once “rough town” with an “unsavory reputation in the eyes of San Bernardino County.” I tend to gravitate to Fontana native and writer Mike Davis’s words in City of Quartz when he describes our hometown as “the product of an extraordinary, deeply emblematic local history [… as a ] junkyard and [a] utopia for successive tropes of a changing California dream” (375). He’s talking about the Inland Empire’s population of predominantly Latino immigrants and Black families, many of whom now toil in logistics warehouses, people responsible for your products arriving promptly at your local shopping markets or your doorstep. He’s talking about my parents who started a trucking company after moving to Fontana from a one bedroom apartment in Baldwin Park, California. My favorite memories as a kid were playing catch with a baseball in the loading docks or on the windy days, we would fly a kite after business hours behind the warehouse.

Davis was also talking about me. My parents wanted me to have a bigger “California dream,” and for me that became film and media. I remember walking out of my toddler bed and heading to the living room where my Dad was watching the movie Back to the Future, the iconic scene of Doc and Marty McFly testing the Delorean at the Twin Pine mall.

A bond started between me and my dad that night around pop culture and movies. After migrating from Mexico when he was 10, he began to tune in to the sights and sounds of what was happening in the US. He got hooked on Blondie’s iconic song “The Tide is High,” and he and his cousins started sneaking into movie theaters. When I was old enough, he started passing his love of art, media and narrative on to me, and it became my dream.

My journey to actually getting my first work in media, the LPC community editor job, is a bumpy one. I am part of the generation that was told STEM education is more important than liberal arts education (and in many ways it is still being told). The idea was this: if you come from a low income background, STEM will get you out of that situation. I was told by many teachers that I was “too smart” to focus on media arts and stick to STEM. I used my STEM pedigree and good grades to get into UC Irvine, but then reverted to my dream, and studied film and media studies and comparative literature.

LPC Community Editor Yvette Vargas (right) convenes with LPC staffer Quinn Mays at the Garcia Center For The Arts in San Bernardino. credit: Jesse Hardman

As graduation neared I was excited to test the waters and find work in media. 2020 was going to be my year, and then, not only was graduation canceled, but it felt like my future was canceled too thanks to the pandemic. Trying to hang on to hope, I went back home, finish my last quarter at UCI virtually, and started applying for media work. For nearly a year and a half I was told by media companies that I had too much experience for internships, and not nearly enough experience for full-time work. Even retail jobs like Target and restaurants told me I was overqualified. The path for a young aspiring media maker, me, from a region like the IE, to get some real experience in media felt impossible.

Despite my frustration, I was seeing some interesting signs of life and opportunity in the IE. Local folks with media skills were creating their own startups. One of my favorite sites, The Frontline Observer , posted an Instagram story highlighting a community editor position with something called the Listening Post Collective. I thought, “Who is this? And I cannot believe a position like this exists in the IE?!?”’ Alas, reading the job description, I was discouraged: 5-6 years of job experience required. The haunting remarks of previous hiring managers lingering in mind. Being numbed with little to no faith, I submitted an application expecting that I would get an immediate rejection or ghosted.

When I finally got the call from LPC about the community editor position, I was in tears: happy that I finally got a job that reflected what I wanted to be involved with, media that represents my experience and my region. When the LPC team handed me my assignment to produce media projects revolving around environmental health in the Inland Empire, I knew I was definitely ready to rise to occasion and to prove myself. I may not have the years of experience, but what I lacked, I made up for in knowing this topic through my lived experiences and knowing my community.

My first task was finding nine or ten local media makers who had stories they wanted to tell about environmental and community health in the IE. I knew that our applicant pool was not going to be traditional: independent media makers, self-taught media makers, academics, immigrants, full-timers, etc. All of them came from a broad range of experiences and backgrounds, and most were still looking for a break, some experience, and to get paid something for their creative talents. Approaching this through a traditional media process like show me your resume or show me your clips, would have been a disaster. Instead, I said, “show me your big idea,” and “what’s a story you are uniquely able to tell about where you’re from.”

Turning these great ideas into actual stories was full of challenges: closing knowledge gaps around journalism and media, scheduling meetings after work hours (most applicants had other day jobs to make ends meet), educating people on the editing process, and using platforms that people didn’t have a ton of experience in to name a few. In the end, grantees created moving narratives, honored their vision and authenticity, learned about data and where to find it, and generally picked up journalistic principles and applied them to their stories.

The idea of story grants in the IE is unheard of. As an added layer, getting the opportunity and being paid for it – unimaginable! I was shocked to learn how much it meant to one of the grantees who actually had a lot of journalism experience, that the grant amount we gave him exceeded anything he’d ever gotten before for his work.

As our project wraps up, I am motivated to continue being an advocate for investing in people’s talents, especially those who are least likely to get opportunities or have been told that they don’t deserve them. I’m also reminded of how I felt before getting this job opportunity: hopeless. Now, with this experience, I feel like all of these challenges are coming together to make me a leader. Growing up in the Inland Empire challenges one’s perceptions of success, we’re often left wondering if it really is “a junkyard of dreams.” Despite the challenges, I am starting to embrace the idea of taking scraps and turning them into fine metal.

Subscribe to our newsletter , keep an eye on our website , or visit our IE specific IG page to get updates on our Unfiltered IE project and other amazing LPC work.

Get Started

10 Journalism Skills Every Modern Journalist Needs to Have

Digital media has completely transformed the news—and the journalism skills needed to produce and deliver it.

Twenty years ago, Americans turned to traditional media for the news. TV, radio and newspapers were the go-to sources.

Now, digital media dominates. Over half of U.S. adults prefer to get their news from a digital platform, such as podcasts or social media.

What does the shift to digital media mean for aspiring and working journalists? They need to master a variety of journalism skills. While the foundations of journalism endure, the field requires new expertise to break in and stay relevant.

This blog post will introduce you to the most in-demand digital journalism skills. You’ll also learn how you can enhance yours through the new online Master of Arts in Digital Journalism at St. Bonaventure University.

What’s the Evolution of Journalism Over the Past 20 Years?

In the last two decades, technology has sparked seismic shifts in journalism.

Three developments stand out: the internet, mobile devices and social media. Together, they've changed the accessibility, creation and delivery of journalism.

Today, almost every adult in America connects to the internet and social media through a digital device. Their extensive use makes it easy to forget that these technologies are relatively new to our daily lives.

All three emerged in the 1990s. Since then, adoption has soared. According to 2019 data from the Pew Research Center:

52 percent of U.S. adults used the internet in 2000. By 2019, that number grew to 90 percent.
Between 2011 and 2019, smartphone ownership more than doubled from 35 percent to 81 percent.
In 2005, just 5 percent of U.S. adults used at least one social media site. In 2019, 72 percent reported the same.

To retain their audiences, journalists had to meet the public online.

Between 2000 and 2020, the news proliferated on websites, mobile apps and social media. Traditional outlets published repurposed and original online content. At the same time, news organizations offering exclusively digital content emerged.

The internet, digital devices and social media created new distribution platforms for journalism. As a result, the public enjoyed more access to news than ever before.

But these technologies also drove the evolution of journalism creation.

Journalists gained new tools for real-time reporting. They could publish stories more quickly and to a broader audience. It also became easier to get immediate feedback, conduct research, access and analyze data and tell stories through multiple media.

Thanks to advancements in technology, a new branch of journalism emerged—digital journalism.

Is Journalism Dead?

It's true that the news media face challenges. Revenue generation, public media literacy and political intervention are examples. But the idea that journalism is dying is a common misconception.

Technology has made content more accessible than ever. As a result, content consumption is rising. In 2020, people worldwide doubled the amount of content they consumed every day.

Moreover, the news is one of the fastest-growing types of content. Consider these facts:

Almost half of global consumers are spending more time on news websites and apps.
Since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, more people have purchased print or digital news subscriptions than canceled them.

Journalism isn’t dead. It’s just different than 20 years ago.

What’s the Current State of Journalism?

According to consumers, digital media rules journalism. More U.S. adults like to get their news from digital sources than traditional ones.

In January 2021, 86 percent of those surveyed by Pew Research Center said they get their news from a digital device “often” or “sometimes.” That’s higher than the percentage of adults who rely on TV (68 percent), radio (50 percent) and print publications (32 percent) for news.

Why do people prefer digital journalism? To start, it’s convenient. News content can now be accessed from anywhere at any time.

But digital journalism is also engaging. Digital media deepens storytelling by integrating writing, visuals and sound. It enhances the audience’s experience with a story.

News organizations now use multiple media platforms to publish content online, including:

Websites and blogs
Mobile apps
Data analysis and visualizations
Photos and videos
Social media
Augmented reality
Interactive web experiences

These digital platforms allow journalists to tell stories that foster greater empathy, exploration, education and investigation.

The current state of journalism demands a unique skillset. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, journalists with digital media experience will have the best job prospects.

Which Journalism Skills Are In-Demand?

Digital media has created exciting opportunities for journalists to produce and share their stories. Yet to be effective digital content creators, journalists need mastery of a variety of journalism skills.

They need as much proficiency in digital media as they do in the foundations of journalism. The following are the most in-demand skills for journalists.

1. Interviewing

Interviewing continues to be one of the most vital journalism skills. It helps journalists develop trustworthy, accurate and impactful storytelling.

Interviews are a tool for:

Collecting authoritative information.
Verifying information from other sources.
Uncovering and exploring different perspectives.

Journalism skills for interviews go beyond asking questions.

Journalists need to prepare through goal setting and research. During interviews, they need active listening skills and the ability to maintain the flow and focus.

Conducting quality interviews isn’t easy. That’s why strong interviewing skills are highly sought-after.

2. Reporting

Most U.S. adults say news organizations need more transparency. They want to know how journalists find and choose sources, produce their stories and issue corrections.

These concerns are related to reporting, another one of the most crucial journalism skills. Reporting is the heart of trustworthy and well-researched journalism.

Today’s journalists need the skills to:

Identify, observe, gather, assess, record and share relevant information.
Report with empathy and compassion.
Conduct thorough journalistic research and evaluate information appropriate to their media.
Understand and make meaning of data.

Growing public distrust in the media has drawn new attention to ethical journalism skills.

In 2000, approximately half of U.S. adults reported having a “great deal” or a “fair amount” of trust in the news media. That figure dropped to 40 percent by 2020.

Fortunately, 75 percent of U.S. adults say the news media can improve their level of confidence.

Producing journalism of the highest standard will earn public trust. To do so, practitioners must demonstrate ethical journalism skills. That means committing to truth, accuracy, fairness, diversity and freedom of speech.

Journalists must understand how to:

Apply the best ideals of journalist excellence and ethics to new forms of media.
Apply the principles and laws of freedom of speech and press.
Produce inclusive work that illustrates an awareness of gender, race, ethnicity, sexual orientation and other forms of diversity.

Writing is another foundational journalism skill. Journalists must master written communication for all media types, from text stories and podcast scripts to photo captions and social media posts.

Journalism skills related to writing include understanding the principles of grammar and punctuation. Journalists should also know how to write clearly, simplify complex information and adhere to a style guide.

5. Digital Journalism Skills

The public’s growing preference for digital media means that digital journalism skills are now imperative.

Journalists must be able to strategically use digital storytelling tools to connect with audiences on various platforms. This means thinking critically and creatively about the best forms of media to serve the target audience.

Here are a few examples of digital journalism skills:

Live streaming video on Twitter from a mobile device.
Transforming a data spreadsheet into a responsive visualization for a website.
Shooting and editing video into a series of GIFs.

6. Investigative Reporting

Investigative reporting helps protect individuals and society from harmful practices. It ensures accountability, drives change and preserves democracy.

Recent recipients of The Pulitzer Prize for Investigative Reporting uncovered predatory lending in the New York City taxi industry, the source of opioids in Western Virginia and escalating neglect in Florida mental health hospitals.

Where there's potential wrongdoing, there's an opportunity for investigative reporting. For that reason, it will always be one of the core journalism skills.

Investigative reporting takes special craft. Journalists must know how to integrate all of the foundational journalism skills in this list—but on a larger and more complex scale.

7. Mobile Journalism Skills

The top journalism skills include mobile proficiency.

Of the U.S. adults who get their news from digital devices, approximately 7 in 10 rely on news websites or apps. That’s more than the number who prefer search, social media or podcasts.

Today’s journalists must use mobile devices to connect with the public. To do so, they need the mobile journalism skills to:

Take and edit photos.
Record and edit audio and video.
Report in real-time on social or traditional news channels.
Publish stories on the go.

Editing is also among the most desirable journalism skills. Journalists should know how to critically evaluate their work and that of others.

Copyediting is a necessary step in creating excellent journalism. It ensures:

Appropriate style.
Grammatical correctness.

9. Social Media

Social media is the third-most-common source of digital news among U.S. adults. Fifty-three percent get their news from social media, at least sometimes.

That number could increase. Between 2014 and 2019, social media use rose steadily across adults of all ages.

The widespread consumption of news on social media means journalists need the skills to:

Connect with audiences on the most popular platforms. Most U.S. adults who get their news on social media do so on Facebook, YouTube, Twitter, Instagram and Reddit.
Report in real-time on the various social platforms. This involves critical and creative thinking about the most appropriate media for each platform.
Build a personal brand on social media. Twitter is the leading social network among journalists, and LinkedIn is gaining popularity.

10. Video Journalism Skills

Modern journalists must know how to create impactful content for video.

Digital media has given Americans more ways to watch the news, which is how many like to consume it. Forty-seven percent of U.S. adults prefer viewing the news over reading or listening to it, either on TV or online.

Video journalism skills are both editorial and technical. Today’s journalists must be proficient in all of them—from developing a compelling narrative to shooting and editing video on a mobile device.

journalism skills online master of arts digital journalism

Enhance Your Journalism Skills With an Online Master of Arts in Digital Journalism

How do your journalism skills compare with industry demands?

If you need to expand your capabilities, then consider pursuing graduate-level education in digital journalism. It will strengthen your knowledge and skillset and position you for more desirable career opportunities.

St. Bonaventure University is now offering an online Master of Arts in Digital Journalism for aspiring digital journalists. This program, offered through the university’s ACEJMC-accredited Jandoli School of Communication, provides the complete package.

It’s a graduate degree that emphasizes journalistic standards while preparing students with digital journalism skills. Graduates will be prepared to tell impactful stories across the media landscape—with skill, integrity and creativity.

As a student, you’ll master content creation for digital, traditional, audio and video applications. Learn how to:

Contextualize today’s digital journalism in the broader best ideals of journalism.
Apply programming languages to facilitate digital storytelling.
Demonstrate foundational skills in photography, video, design and audio.
Understand and make meaning of data for news and public interest stories.
Report stories in real-time via social media.
Build your brand as a journalist.
Develop, research and execute a major journalism project.

You’ll also develop as a socially conscious and ethically committed journalist. Franciscan values shape SBU, providing a moral and ethical framework for the journalism profession.

The online Master of Arts in Digital Journalism is new at SBU, but the Jandoli School of Communications has a legacy of journalistic excellence. Our alumni are award-winning media professionals, including Pulitzer Prize, duPont, Peabody and Emmy recipients.

SBU will help you become a leader in producing ethical journalism for diverse audiences in the digital world. Are you ready?

Get more information about the online Master of Arts in Digital Journalism.

Read more of SBU online's top blogs below:

1. The Digital Evolution of Sports Journalism: Q&A with Michael Vaccaro (@MikeVacc)

2. Coping With Isolation: 25 Strategies for Optimizing Mental Health

3. Successful Online Student: 20 Tips for Hitting Your Goals

4. Jandoli School of Communication Earns Prestigious Accreditation

*Please note that information contained in this blog post may be subject to change per program or regulatory requirements.

Whether you have a simple question or need advice to determine if this program is right for you, our knowledgeable advisors are here to help. They can chat with you on your schedule and guide you through the entire admissions process, so you can feel confident moving forward with your online St. Bonaventure University program.

Connect with an Advisor Today

Request More Info

What does a news anchor do?

Would you make a good news anchor? Take our career test and find your match with over 800 careers.

What is a News Anchor?

A news anchor is a journalist or broadcaster who serves as the primary presenter of news programs on television or radio. They are the face of the news organization and are responsible for delivering the day's news stories to the audience in a clear, concise, and engaging manner. News anchors are typically seated at a news desk or standing in a studio, providing a professional and authoritative presence during news broadcasts.

The role of a news anchor goes beyond simply reading news scripts. They are often involved in researching and gathering news stories, interviewing guests, and conducting live reports from the field. News anchors work closely with producers, writers, and technical teams to ensure that news segments are well-coordinated and presented effectively. They must have excellent communication skills, a strong command of the language, and the ability to convey information with clarity and impartiality. News anchors also need to stay updated on current events, national and international news, and be able to provide context and analysis to help viewers understand complex issues.

What does a News Anchor do?

News anchors serve as a human connection between the news organization and the audience. Their presence on screen adds a personal touch, making the news more relatable and accessible. They can convey empathy, emotion, and a sense of shared experience, fostering a connection with viewers.

Duties and Responsibilities The duties and responsibilities of a news anchor can vary depending on the specific news organization and program format. However, here are some common duties and responsibilities associated with the role of a news anchor:

News Presentation: The primary responsibility of a news anchor is to present news stories to the audience in a clear, engaging, and professional manner. This involves reading news scripts, introducing news segments, and providing transitions between stories.
News Reporting: News anchors may also be involved in news reporting. They may conduct interviews, gather information, and report live from the field to provide first-hand accounts of events or developments.
Research and Fact-Checking: News anchors are expected to be well-informed about the news topics they cover. They research and verify information to ensure accuracy and credibility before presenting it to the audience.
News Writing and Editing: News anchors may be involved in writing and editing news scripts, headlines, and story summaries. They work closely with writers and producers to ensure that news content is concise, informative, and adheres to the organization's editorial standards.
Interviewing Guests: News anchors often conduct interviews with newsmakers, experts, or individuals relevant to the news stories. They prepare interview questions, lead the conversation, and elicit meaningful insights or information from the guests.
Engaging with the Audience: News anchors engage with the audience by establishing a connection, addressing viewer questions or comments, and providing context or analysis to help viewers understand complex topics.
Adhering to Professional Standards: News anchors are expected to maintain high ethical and professional standards in their reporting. They must adhere to journalistic principles of accuracy, fairness, and impartiality. They also follow the organization's editorial guidelines and maintain objectivity while delivering news.
Keeping Up with Current Events: News anchors must stay well-informed about current events, both nationally and internationally. They continuously monitor news sources, follow developments, and research background information to provide up-to-date and relevant news coverage.
Collaboration with Production Team: News anchors work closely with producers, writers, editors, and technical teams to ensure a smooth and well-coordinated news broadcast. They collaborate in planning news segments, discussing story angles, and providing input on the overall presentation of the news program.

Types of News Anchors There are various types of news anchors, each with their own specific roles and responsibilities within the field of journalism.

Main News Anchor: The main news anchor, also known as the lead anchor or primary anchor, is the face of the news program. They are responsible for delivering the main news stories and headlines of the day. They often lead the broadcast, introduce segments, and provide continuity throughout the program.
Co-Anchor: A co-anchor works alongside the main news anchor, sharing the responsibility of presenting the news. They may alternate delivering stories, conduct interviews, or provide analysis. Co-anchors often engage in discussions with each other and contribute their perspectives on the news.
Breaking News Anchor: When significant, time-sensitive events occur, breaking news anchors take over the broadcast to provide immediate coverage. They deliver breaking news updates, offer real-time information, and report live from the scene. Breaking news anchors need to be quick-thinking, adaptable, and able to handle high-pressure situations.
Sports Anchor: Sports anchors specialize in delivering news and updates related to sports events, teams, and athletes. They provide scores, highlights, analysis, and commentary on sporting events. Sports anchors often have a deep knowledge of various sports and engage with viewers who have an interest in athletics.
Weather Anchor : Weather anchors, also known as meteorologists, are responsible for delivering weather forecasts, climate updates, and weather-related information. They analyze weather patterns, use meteorological tools, and present the forecast using graphics and visuals. Weather anchors play a crucial role in informing viewers about current and upcoming weather conditions.
Investigative Anchor: Investigative anchors focus on in-depth reporting and investigative journalism. They conduct research, uncover newsworthy stories, interview sources, and present investigative reports. They may specialize in exposing corruption, wrongdoing, or uncovering important facts that require extensive research and analysis.
Morning Show Anchor: Morning show anchors typically host news programs that air during the early morning hours. They deliver news updates, conduct interviews, and provide a mix of news, entertainment, and lifestyle segments. Morning show anchors often have a conversational and engaging style to help viewers start their day.

Are you suited to be a news anchor?

News anchors have distinct personalities . They tend to be artistic individuals, which means they’re creative, intuitive, sensitive, articulate, and expressive. They are unstructured, original, nonconforming, and innovative. Some of them are also enterprising, meaning they’re adventurous, ambitious, assertive, extroverted, energetic, enthusiastic, confident, and optimistic.

Does this sound like you? Take our free career test to find out if news anchor is one of your top career matches.

What is the workplace of a News Anchor like?

The workplace of a news anchor can vary depending on the type of news organization and program format. In general, news anchors work in a studio setting designed specifically for news broadcasts. The studio typically includes a news desk, where the anchor delivers the news, along with various technical equipment, cameras, and lighting setups. The studio is often equipped with teleprompters that display the news script for the anchor to read seamlessly.

News anchors may also have access to a control room adjacent to the studio. The control room is where the technical aspects of the broadcast are managed, such as camera angles, graphics, audio, and video playback. The anchor may communicate with the control room staff through an earpiece to receive cues and instructions during the live broadcast.

Additionally, news anchors may have their own personal workspace within the news organization's facilities. This workspace often includes a computer, where they can research, prepare scripts, review news stories, and communicate with producers or writers. They may also have access to a wardrobe area or dressing room for outfit changes and grooming.

News anchors often work alongside a production team, including producers, writers, editors, and technical staff. They collaborate closely with these professionals to plan and coordinate the news program, discuss story angles, and ensure a smooth and professional broadcast.

While the primary workplace for news anchors is the studio, they may also have opportunities to report from the field, especially in the case of breaking news or live event coverage. In such situations, they may be assigned to locations outside the studio, such as newsrooms, press conferences, or remote broadcast locations.

Frequently Asked Questions

Writing and journalism related careers and degrees.

Writing Careers

Academic Writer
Content Writer
Fiction Writer
Food Critic
Ghostwriter
Grant Writer
Music Critic
Nonfiction Writer
Screenwriter
Speechwriter
Sports Writer
Technical Writer
Television Writer
Travel Writer

Journalism Careers

Correspondent
News Anchor
News Reporter
Photojournalist
Broadcast Journalism
Children's Literature
Creative Writing
Screenwriting
Songwriting
Technical Writing

The Qualities of a Good Newspaper Journalist

Job Interviews
Interview Preparation
')" data-event="social share" data-info="Pinterest" aria-label="Share on Pinterest">
')" data-event="social share" data-info="Reddit" aria-label="Share on Reddit">
')" data-event="social share" data-info="Flipboard" aria-label="Share on Flipboard">

The Average Salary of Journalism Majors

Job requirements to be a print journalist, how much money does a broadcasting journalist make a year.

What Is the Annual Income of a Criminologist?
Skills for a Sports Commentator

The public expects and deserves prompt, accurate and objective information. Professional newspaper journalists dedicate their life to reporting the news no matter what the personal risk. For instance, newspaper journalists may rush to the scene of an ongoing hostage siege, school shootings or natural disaster to interview police and witnesses. If you are thinking about a journalism career, ask yourself if you have the qualities of courage, integrity and fairness. You also need superior written, verbal and interpersonal skills to excel as a newspaper journalist.

Ethics and Integrity

A solid ethical core characterizes a good journalist. Fairness, objectivity and honesty matter when reporting everything from local referendums and proposed state tax increases to presidential elections. Professional journalists abhor fake news based on rumor, innuendo and unverifiable anonymous tips. Reporters should only share opinions in newspaper editorial pieces. They step aside if covering that story would be a conflict of interest, such as writing a feature article about a family member’s new bistro.

Courage and Boldness

Good journalists push themselves to dig deeper and ask tough questions. They put personal feelings aside to boldly unearth the truth about newsworthy people, places and events. Courage is vital to investigating what is happening at the scene. They are not satisfied making phone calls from a comfortable desk in the newsroom when covering major happenings. For example, newspaper journalists may travel to the scene of dangerous floodwaters in their community and talk to volunteers who are helping sandbag a faltering dam.

Expert Communication Skills

Along with impeccable character, newspaper journalists must be skilled communicators to interview sources and write in-depth stories. Unlike radio, television or online journalists, they go far beyond sound bytes and superficial coverage of a situation. Newspaper journalists include background information and needed detail to give context to a more nuanced understanding of the issue by the reader. Typically, journalists have a bachelor’s degree in communication or journalism and relevant undergraduate experience, such as writing for their college newspaper. You must be highly proficient in English grammar, technical writing and proper attribution of sources to be a good newspaper journalist and not lose your job.

Knowledge of Technology

As part of their job, newspaper journalists follow and use social media appropriately to provide immediate and transparent coverage of happening events. They know how to use the internet to research stories and access public records when engaging in investigative journalism. Technology, such as Facebook and LinkedIn help them contact potential sources to request information or an interview. They also maximize use of technology to instantly inform the public about matters that may directly affect their health and safety, such as a food recall.

Investigative Skills

Good newspaper journalists have an analytical mind and base stories on evidence and facts, not emotion. They are astute observers and instinctively sense when there is much more to a story than what is being shared at a news conference, for example. Critical thinking skills are crucial when weighing conflicting accounts of an incident and assessing the credibility of sources. They exercise sound judgment when blogging or writing yet unverified information on the newspaper’s website during a breaking story. Even when faced with looming deadlines, good newspaper journalists take time to get a balanced accounting of the subject.

National Public Radio Ethics Handbook: This Is NPR
University of Wisconsin-Madison: Center for Journalism Ethics
O-Net OnLine: Summary Report for Reporters and Correspondents
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics: OOH: How to Become a Reporter, Correspondent or Broadcast News Analyst

Mary Dowd holds a doctorate in educational leadership and a master’s in counseling and student affairs from Minnesota State Mankato. Helping students succeed has been her passion while serving in many areas of student affairs and adjunct teaching. Currently she is a dean of students at a large, public university. Dr. Dpwd’s writing experience includes published research, training materials and hundreds of practical online articles.

Duties & responsibilities of journalists, the average starting salaries for a broadcast journalist, what is the difference between a journalist & a reporter, what are the advantages of being a journalist, qualities to look for in a newspaper editor, starting salary for a journalist, what duties do news reporters have, what courses should you take in college to be a journalist, what are the requirements necessary to become a journalist, most popular.

1 Duties & Responsibilities of Journalists
2 The Average Starting Salaries for a Broadcast Journalist
3 What Is the Difference Between a Journalist & a Reporter?
4 What Are the Advantages of Being a Journalist?

Investigative

The qualities of a journalist

Man working on typewriter, image by Media Helping Media

They must have a love of language, written or spoken, understand the meaning and flow of words and take delight in using them.

The difference between an ordinary news story and a great one is often not just the facts you include, but the way in which you tell those facts.

Journalists must not abuse grammar, always check spellings and take every opportunity to develop their own vocabulary.

The news story – the basic building block of journalism – requires a simple, uncomplicated writing style. This need for simplicity can frustrate new journalists, even though it is often more challenging to write simply than to be wordy.

Once the basic news story format has been mastered you can start to develop a style of your own.

A journalist must have an alert and ordered mind. People trust journalists with facts, either the ones they give them or the ones they receive from them. All journalists must aim for accuracy. Without it trust and audience will be lost.

Journalists should always have a notebook or recording device at hand. Contemporaneous notes are essential when it comes to compiling a report.

The journalist needs to stay alert and use their imagination to build a mental picture of what people tell them. They must learn to visualise the story.

With experience and practice, a journalist will develop a special awareness of what makes news. This is sometimes called ‘news sense’. It is the ability to recognise information which will interest the audience or which provides clues to other stories. It is also the ability to sort through a mass of facts and opinions, recognising which are most important or interesting to the audience.

For example, a young reporter was sent to cover the wedding of a government minister. When he returned to the office, his news editor asked for the story. “Sorry,” he replied. “There isn’t a story – the bride never arrived.” As his news editor pointed out, when a bride does not turn up for a wedding that is the news story. The young reporter had not thought about the relative importance of all the facts in this incident; he had no news sense.

A journalist must have a suspicious mind. They will be given information for all sorts of reasons, some justified others not. And they must be able to recognise occasions when people are not telling the truth. It’s essential the journalist develops the ability to recognise when they are being given false information. Healthy scepticism is essential.

Journalists need to be determined so that once they have found a story they are able to hang on to it until they are satisfied they have it in full. The journalist must be like a dog with a bone, not letting go until they have chewed all the meat from it, even if people try to pull it away.

This means the journalist often has to ask hard questions and risk upsetting people who do not want to cooperate. It might be painful but in the end the journalist will gain respect. The rule is simple: be polite but persistent.

Journalists need to learn to get on well with all sorts of people. They can’t pick and choose who to interview in the same way as they might choose who to have as a friend. The journalist must be friendly to all, even those people they dislike.

Reliability is especially valued in journalism where both the employer and the audience rely on the journalist to do their job professionally and in a timely manner.

If a journalist is sent on an interview but fails to turn up they offend a number of people: the person who is waiting to be interviewed; the editor who is waiting to put the interview in their paper or programme, and the readers, and the listeners or viewers, who are robbed of news.

Journalism is all about deadlines. Your news organisation will expect you to be first with the news. They will want regular updates. They will want accurate, sources, and attributed facts. They will expect exclusive elements, perhaps a quote, a picture, a snippet of information. But most of all they want accurate information produced in the most efficient and effective manner.

In a busy news organisation, punctuality is a necessity. Without it there would be chaos.

In our next lesson we look at ‘ What is news? ’.

This training module uses material from The News Manual with permission. The image at the top is by David Brewer and released via Creative Commons BY-NC-SA 4.0.

Journalism is a stressful career, but work doesn’t have to be miserable

CareerCast’s annual ranking of the most stressful jobs came out Wednesday, and journalism gigs occupied more than one of the top 10 spots for the second year running . This year, broadcaster placed in the eighth spot, and newspaper reporter placed in the ninth spot after an online poll that included 834 self-selected participants.

I spoke with Katie Hawkins-Gaar , Poynter’s digital innovation faculty member, about the report via email. Our conversation touched on the inevitable stress that comes with being a journalist, and what we can do about stress that isn’t inevitable.

So CareerCast’s annual list of the most and least stressful jobs is out. Journalists made the list again. Is this at all a surprise? What does it say about our industry?

I’m not surprised, unfortunately. Journalists are under a lot of pressure. We work long, sometimes unpredictable hours. We cover stories and topics that can take a mental toll and are hard to leave behind at the office. We are expected to do more with fewer resources. On top of it all, our industry is in a state of uncertainty, which means that job security and workplace morale aren’t so great.

You and our co-worker Ren LaForme have put a lot of effort into teaching people ways to be happy at work, or at least fulfilled and not stressed. While deadline and breaking news stress is part of the job, what’s something journalists reading this can do right now to cut down on the other stresses we face, including industry uncertainty and workplace issues?

You’re right — there are plenty of times where breaking news happens and a journalist is expected to work much longer hours at a quicker pace than usual. Interestingly, most journalists seem to really relish those experiences: Adrenaline kicks in, there’s a clear sense of purpose, and newsrooms and teams tend to work well together in those situations.

It’s important to reclaim the moments when breaking news and deadline reporting aren’t happening. Make a concerted effort to work normal hours and, on the rare slow news day, give yourself permission to leave the office early and enjoy life. If you’re a boss, lead by example and give your direct reports explicit permission to do the same. If you’re not in a management position, sit down with your boss and ask her expectations for working hours. Get more clarity around the hours you and your teammates are expected to work, and start a healthy conversation around that elusive work-life balance.

What can journalists do about unnecessary stress within their organizations? (Too much email comes to mind, or too many meetings.)

Two of the most common sources of stress we hear from journalists are emails and meetings. There are way too many and, ironically, they’re getting in the way of actually doing work.

There are some digital tools and hacks for reclaiming control over your inbox and calendar. We adopted Slack at Poynter last year and it’s led to a noticeable reduction for internal email, especially for simple messages like “There’s cake in the break room,” which can get buried in the mountain of email. Now those announcements live in our #is-there-food channel. Setting aside specific times of day to read and respond to email — and do nothing else — is helpful, too. If you’re just chipping away at your inbox all day long, it can seem like a Herculean task.

If you suffer from too many meetings, one of the best approaches can be to purposefully block off time in your calendar to get work done. Treat that time exactly the same way you would a meeting; don’t move it for something else. Another approach is to schedule or recommend 45-minute meetings instead of hour-long meetings, giving you that remaining 15 minutes to focus on tasks. If you’re in charge of scheduling meetings, look for opportunities to streamline or reinvent them. And if you suffer from meetings where people are unfocused or drained of energy, try taking the first five minutes to play a quick game or play a song. It might seem silly, but it can do wonders for changing the energy in the room and getting everyone on the same page, I promise.

When I managed a team at CNN, I would lead a yearly exercise where we spent an hour in a conference room and listed all of the items we were responsible for on a whiteboard — everything from posting a certain number of tweets a day to emailing a daily story roundup. Then we’d identify the tasks we could cut and brainstorm more streamlined approaches for the things we needed to keep. Afterwards, we’d all feel a little less stressed and excited about trying out some new (and hopefully improved) approaches. Doing this exercise as a team helped everyone to feel a sense of ownership; it wouldn’t have been nearly as cathartic of a process if I just announced that we were suddenly switching things up.

You’re on the road a lot teaching and already this year have had two back-to-back week-long workshops. What helps you manage stress and what doesn’t work?

Coloring! I’m one of those people on the adult coloring book bandwagon and thrilled to welcome others along. It’s such an easy and effective way to turn off my brain for a few hours, and it especially helps on days where I didn’t get as many opportunities for creativity as I would like. ( These postcards are my current obsession.)

Searching for relief through alcohol and unhealthy food can be a short-term solution, but it can leave me feeling pretty crappy the following day and ultimately add to the stress I was trying to reduce. I try — and I’m not always successful — to embrace healthier ways to combat stress, like taking a gloriously long bubble bath, reading a book or going to bed a little earlier than usual. An extra half-hour of sleep seems like the ultimate treat.

As for stress in the moment? Going for a walk has long been my go-to remedy for when stress starts to escalate during the workday.

I sometimes feel like a hypocrite sharing stress-reduction tips because it’s something I struggle with, but I think the more we share with each other, the less alone we feel.

Last year, you and LaForme launched #Happynewsroom, a week devoted to injecting some fun into the culture of news outlets everywhere. Some people loved the idea and shared it with their colleagues, but some people didn’t feel like newsrooms are a place for happiness. I don’t think you’re advocating for drum circles and hair braiding, but instead telling people that they don’t have to hate what they do, where they work or how they work. How do you describe this process for people now? Why should we be concerned about making lists like these every year?

Our “Fun at Work” and #happynewsroom efforts didn’t appeal to everyone , in part because journalists are under so much stress and uncertainty, and fun seems like the last thing we have time for. That said, both Ren and I feel like this topic is hugely important and are looking for other ways to spread tips and approaches like these. We’ve rebranded our efforts as “40 Better Hours” and have some exciting projects ahead this year to reach people and workplaces of all sorts.

Journalists are some of the most passionate, driven and creative people out there, and I hate that our profession always seems to land on lists like these. Some of the stresses are part of the job, but I’m confident there are other ways we can make our workdays less miserable. The better we do with taking care of ourselves, the better we’ll do in reporting stories that matter and resonate with our audiences and communities. We can do this.

What I learned from writing a book about mental health for journalists

It publishes at a time when the levels of stress and pressure faced by many of our colleagues need to be taken far more seriously than they have been

Why it’s unlikely that Trump will lose his voting rights if convicted of a felony in New York

Former President Donald Trump is expected to soon face a jury verdict on felony falsifying business record charges

Advice for old(er) journalists

Early-career folks have some thoughts.

The Washington Post lays out an optimistic new strategy after grim financial numbers

The Post lost $77 million over the last year, and had a 50% drop off in audience since 2020. Leaders unveiled plans to solve those issues.

Was the upside down flag at Samuel Alito’s house illegal?

Hanging the flag upside down is technically against US law. But legal experts say Alito likely did not act illegally.

Start your day informed and inspired.

Get the Poynter newsletter that's right for you.

1-800-611-FILM
Broadcast Journalism

How To Read The News Like A Professional News Anchor

Reading the news off a teleprompter may sound easy, but it’s actually more complicated than it seems. Anchors and reporters have to develop a reading style that seems natural, but isn’t too fast, too slow, too nuanced, too accented, too high-pitched, too quiet, or any other extreme. Reading news like a professional news anchor requires skill, practice, and training .

Practice Makes Perfect

The best way to start is to practice reading news stories that you’ve written for class. If your school has a student TV station, doing some on-air work there is also helpful, as you’ll probably be able to get a recording of it afterward. You can also record yourself with various apps on your phone.

It’s hard to be objective about your own reading, so it’s a good idea to ask others their honest opinions. Does your reading sound natural? Is it hard to understand for any reason? Would your listeners want to hear you read more?

Things to Work On

Speed is one important consideration when reading the news. If you read too slowly, viewers may get bored and impatient and consider changing the channel. If you read too fast, viewers may have a hard time understanding you. Typically, news anchors read between 150 and 175 words per minute, and some stations may time new reporters or anchors to get a baseline for that individual’s usual reading speed.

If you find you’re talking too fast, it may be helpful to concentrate on enunciating clearly — sometimes this helps people slow down. Of course, people often talk faster when they’re anxious, and your first time reading a story on-air can be nerve-wracking, so sometimes the problem resolves itself after you’ve simply spent more time doing the job.

Talking too slowly is less common for students learning to read the news, but if this is a problem you can ask the teleprompter operator at your campus station to intentionally go a little faster than you. (Practice this for a while when you’re not actually on-air!) If you’re practicing by yourself, you can try reading from a computer or tablet screen and scroll through the words a little faster.

Sounding Natural and Conversational

Another common problem students face when learning to read the news is learning to sound as if they’re not reading — something that is much harder than it sounds!

Most of us sound very different when we read something aloud than when we’re having a conversation with friends. It’s also very easy to sound robotic when you’ve been reading for a long time and your attention has started to wander, which can easily happen to an anchor, particularly during a slow news day or a repetitive morning show.

You can practice by reading a news story and pretending that you’re telling it to a friend. You don’t want to ad-lib or change the wording (which may be more formal than the way you normally speak), but you should otherwise talk conversationally. This can be difficult, especially if you’re also trying to speak more slowly or enunciate more clearly, but sounding natural is an important aspect of reading the news. After all, if viewers wanted to hear the news in a monotone, they could just ask Siri to read the day’s headlines.

Accents and Dialects

There are many different “accents” and regionalisms associated with American English. Depending on where you grew up, others may perceive an accent. If you learned English as a second language, you may have an accent associated with your first language.

While there is no single correct accent for American English, most broadcasters prefer reporters speak with a General American accent (most common in the mid-west and on the west coast)—or as close to it as you can reasonably get. Some people already do this, but for those with a strong accent, becoming more linguistically neutral can be difficult.

If you find you have a strong accent, you can listen to reporters or anchors who read the national news—those reading to the entire country have to be the most linguistically neutral—and practice speaking like them. Sometimes it’s helpful to listen to one sentence, pause the recording, and repeat it a few times yourself, then listen to it again. It may not be possible to get rid of your accent entirely, but if you can move it closer to General American, you will probably improve your prospects of finding an on-air job .

If you have difficulty shaking a strong accent, you might consider working in an area where that accent is common. Although General American is preferred in most places, the tendency to speak with a southern drawl likely won’t be as much of a problem in the south as it might be in other parts of the country, for example.

Of course, it should be noted that the United States has a vibrant foreign language news media. The most obvious is Spanish language, but there are Chinese, Korean and Japanese news operations as well. Univision and Telemundo (owned by NBC) are national networks, with local affiliated stations. The other languages tend to be represented by small, generally local outlets.

Adjusting Tone for Content

In general, when you read you should sound moderately upbeat, but not overly chipper. However, you’ll need to adjust your tone when reading somber stories, like those involving deaths or serious injuries. Sometimes slowing down and speaking more quietly can help you convey the seriousness of a sad situation.

This should extend to the whole story, including the reporter’s “standard out” and anchor tags . Recently there was a news story about the death of a twelve-year-old boy in a house fire. The reporter sounded appropriately somber while reading the details of the story. However, when she read her “standard out” (usually something like “Reporting live, Jane Doe for XYZ News”), she suddenly sounded very upbeat and chipper. My guess is that she practiced her standard out this way, and it probably worked fine for most news topics. Unfortunately, in this case it was a sharp contrast to the rest of the story and seemed both jarring and awkward.

For this reason, it’s also helpful if producers can plan content to avoid going directly from an extremely sad story to a happy one. There is no good way to transition from reading about a tragedy to “So, I hear we had an exciting day in the world of sports! Tell us more about that, Bob!” If you can wedge a more neutral story or a commercial break between sad stories and happy ones, you’ll be doing both the anchor and the viewers a big favor.

[su_note]Learn more about the School of Broadcast Journalism at the New York Film Academy by clicking here .[/su_note]

Apply Now for a Broadcast Journalism Program

Do you have a student who dreams of being a future journalist? Then now is the time to encourage them to pursue their dream by applying to become a Scholastic Kid Reporter!

Scholastic Kids Press is an award-winning group of talented Kid Reporters, ages 10–14, from across the country and around the world. Since 2000, Scholastic Kid Reporters have reported “news for kids, by kids,” with coverage of breaking news, entertainment, sports, and more from their hometowns and on the national stage. Their stories are published on the Scholastic Kids Press website, as well as in select issues of Scholastic Classroom Magazines, which reach more than 25 million students in classrooms nationwide.

Scholastic Kid Reporters have interviewed a number of influential figures and leaders, including Pulitzer Prize-winning composer Lin-Manuel Miranda, Nobel Peace Prize recipient Malala Yousafzai, New York Yankees outfielder Aaron Judge, conservationist Jane Goodall, CNN news anchor Anderson Cooper, Captain Underpants and Dog Man creator Dav Pilkey, talk show host Oprah Winfrey, and U.S. Supreme Court Justice Sonia Sotomayor.

Students interested in applying must submit a personal essay about why they want to be a Kid Reporter, a news article, and two story ideas with their application. All applications must be received by July 10, 2020.

Also available is a tips sheet with information on how to safely complete the news article portion of the application while following social distancing guidelines. You can view this here .

To find out more—and download the application form—click here .

Want more great content? Subscribe to our Teacher Newsletter below and get teaching ideas delivered right to your inbox.

Turn Students Into News Reporters

All students can learn how to be news reporters using these interesting, and motivating, lesson plans..

By Cathy Neushul

Everyone wants to feel the thrill of being a news reporter. You're out on the street, meeting people, and watching as something amazing unfolds. The day to day life of a news reporter may not be quite that exciting, but students can learn how basic news reporting techniques can bring something a little different into their own lives.

The best way to get students hooked on reporting is to bring in examples of newspaper articles students would be interested in. You might want to bring in copies of your local paper. They may come with suggested newspaper lesson plans. Often students will see their friends, or people they know, in one of the news stories, and it becomes a more motivating experience.

There are a variety of ways you can teach a news reporting lesson. You can have students write about something that happened in the past, interview people about something that is happening in their community, or have them delve into the reasons why, or why not, certain stories appear in the paper. The lessons below give teachers ways to get started.

Elementary News Reporting Lessons :

Reporting Live from the 20th Century : Students learn about news stories, and the various additions, such as maps, charts, and sidebars that accompany front page articles. They learn about various important events from the past century, and pick one to write a news story about. This lesson provides a great way for students to learn about important historical events, and news writing at the same time.

Be A Reporter : This lesson has students learn about a scientists, engineers, and astronauts involved in space travel, and write a profile of one. The concept is a good one, but you would have to go over the way to write a profile before beginning the lesson. Once students understand how to write a profile, they can compile information on a particular space-related scientist, and write an article.

Nellie Bly's Newspaper Club : Students learn about the first female reporter, Nellie Bly, and the time she lived in, the 19th Century. They also learn about news reporting, and conduct an interview. This lesson seeks to get students to appreciate the art and courage of news reporting. They learn about Bly's courage in reporting on unsavory topics, and get an overview of what such a job entails.

Secondary News Reporting Lessons :

Short But Sweet Writing News Summaries : Students write a summary of a news report. They review the News in Review section of the New York Times, and then produce their own summaries. This a great way to familiarize students with the parts of a newspaper and getting them thinking critically about how editors decide what becomes an article, a news brief, or a picture essay.

To Report or Not to Report : This is a fascinating lesson in which students examine journalistic ethics. They learn about a situation in which a journalist knew about atrocities occuring in Iraq, but did not report on it. They discuss why the reporters did not expose the Hussein regime. A great way for students to use their critical thinking skills, and learn about the challenges of real life journalism.

Angling for a Story : In this lesson students learn that there are a variety of ways to cover a news event. They discuss a particular news story, and use it as a way to discuss how a different angle can bring a story alive. This provides a way for students to look at news reporting as a way to infuse creativity and originality.

Start Your 10-Day Free Trial

Search 350,000+ online teacher resources.
Find lesson plans, worksheets, videos, and more.
Inspire your students with great lessons.

Writing Guide

Cathy Neushul

Recent Writing Articles

Five Benefits of Class Pen Pals
Thursday Papers
Achieve Writing Mastery
How To Teach Writing—for the Non-English Teacher

PRO Courses Guides New Tech Help Pro Expert Videos About wikiHow Pro Upgrade Sign In
EDIT Edit this Article
EXPLORE Tech Help Pro About Us Random Article Quizzes Request a New Article Community Dashboard This Or That Game Popular Categories Arts and Entertainment Artwork Books Movies Computers and Electronics Computers Phone Skills Technology Hacks Health Men's Health Mental Health Women's Health Relationships Dating Love Relationship Issues Hobbies and Crafts Crafts Drawing Games Education & Communication Communication Skills Personal Development Studying Personal Care and Style Fashion Hair Care Personal Hygiene Youth Personal Care School Stuff Dating All Categories Arts and Entertainment Finance and Business Home and Garden Relationship Quizzes Cars & Other Vehicles Food and Entertaining Personal Care and Style Sports and Fitness Computers and Electronics Health Pets and Animals Travel Education & Communication Hobbies and Crafts Philosophy and Religion Work World Family Life Holidays and Traditions Relationships Youth
Browse Articles
Learn Something New
Quizzes Hot
This Or That Game
Train Your Brain
Explore More
Support wikiHow
About wikiHow
Log in / Sign up
Education and Communications

How to Read and Speak Like a TV News Reporter

Last Updated: March 9, 2024 Fact Checked

This article was co-authored by Lynn Kirkham . Lynn Kirkham is a Professional Public Speaker and Founder of Yes You Can Speak, a San Francisco Bay Area-based public speaking educational business empowering thousands of professionals to take command of whatever stage they've been given - from job interviews, boardroom talks to TEDx and large conference platforms. Lynn was chosen as the official TEDx Berkeley speaker coach for the last four years and has worked with executives at Google, Facebook, Intuit, Genentech, Intel, VMware, and others. There are 10 references cited in this article, which can be found at the bottom of the page. This article has been fact-checked, ensuring the accuracy of any cited facts and confirming the authority of its sources. This article has been viewed 600,896 times.

TV news reporters seem to project confidence and authority when they speak. As is the case with many skills, practice makes perfect when it comes to reporting. The first step in learning to report the news is to watch the professionals. Take note and write down any characteristics you want to imitate. Then, print out some news stories and practice reading them on your own. After you've gained a little bit of confidence in your reading, start paying attention to your body language, facial expressions, and gestures.

Working on Vocal Delivery

Breathe slowly, in through the nose and out through the mouth.
Spend at least 5 minutes practicing exercises before you read, and set aside 10-15 minutes if you are preparing for an audition or job.

For example, if you tend to drop the end of -ing words, slow down and make sure you say the whole word (fishin' vs. fishing).

Most reporters aim for a pace of around 150-170 words per minute.
If you are nervous, you might find yourself speaking faster. Try taking a few deep breaths or meditating for a few minutes before a job if you are nervous.

If you have a strong accent, it can take some time to learn how to speak differently. Keep practicing by imitating how reporters sound.

The goal is to sound upbeat and friendly, not like you had too much coffee before you started reading.

Using slang makes you sound less reliable. Stick to formal language.

This can be difficult at first, but eventually it will become a habit.

Practicing Your Reporting

Step 1 Watch the news to listen to how reporters sound.

You might notice that the reporter sounds excited, energized, friendly, or confident. Try writing down some words you would use to describe the reporter's voice. You can use these words for reference when you're practicing.
Look at the reporter's body language. Watch how the reporter's face reflects the tone of the story. Look at where the reporter places their hands.

Step 2 Record yourself reading a report to spot your weaknesses.

Try not to criticize yourself too harshly. You are comparing yourself to professional newscasters while you are just getting started. Simply compare to see how you can improve.

Step 3 Practice keeping your eyes still while reading from a distance.

You'll often see a reporter with papers in their hand. You practice this way, too. Practice glancing down at your notes and then conveying the story, rather than reading directly from your notes.

Step 4 Be prepared to go off-script from time to time.

For a serious story, you can say something along the lines of, "What a tragic event for the neighborhood," or "Let's hope everyone makes a full recovery." Make it clear that you care about the situation.
For a feel good story, you can keep it simple by saying something like, "How fun!" or "That really warms the heart."
It's important to stay neutral for political stories. Good examples of comments could include, "This race is really heating up," or "This has been a really exciting story to follow." These comments still give an opinion while remaining neutral.

Reading Naturally

Step 1 Read through a report silently first.

If you don't have a specific report you're reading, try taking a story from a newspaper or looking up sample stories online.

Step 2 Look up any words you don't know.

The more words you know, the better you will be able to make an educated guess about unknown words you come across in a report.

Step 3 Practice reading out loud while you are alone.

Try using a mirror to look at yourself while you read. This can help you make sure your facial expressions are confident and match the tone of the story. It will also help you practice to get glance at a report then read it well while looking straight ahead.
Once you've built up some confidence, you might want to ask a close friend or family member to listen in and give you feedback.

Step 4 Adjust your tone based on the content of the story.

For fun stories, try to loosen up a little bit so that you sound more upbeat.

Step 5 Read out loud frequently in case you need to do a cold reading.

This is especially important for breaking stories. You might get bullet points ahead of time, but you will probably see the story for the first time as you are reading it.

Using Body Language

Step 1 Sit up straight with your head up and your shoulders back.

For serious reports, it's especially important that your body language reflects the tone of the story. If need be, pause and check your posture and facial expression before a serious story.

Step 2 Use hand gestures to add meaning to your report.

If you don't normally use your hands to talk, start slowly. Try using one or two hand gestures in a report. If you try to add many more, it may look unnatural.

Step 3 Make eye contact with the camera as much as possible.

If you are co-reporting, it's natural to break eye contact to look at your colleague every once in a while, especially if you are speaking to each other.

Make sure your facial expressions are appropriate for the story. Although a warm, friendly smile is generally appropriate, make sure to use a more serious expression when reporting on something like a death or accident.

Step 5 Project confidence with your body language.

Having confidence in yourself will give off confidence in front of the camera.
To be more convincing, you should have eye contact and a strong body posture.
Besides this, pause and have certainty in your speech.
Be clear and concise.

Community Q&A

Try not to express disappointment on camera when you make a mistake. Rather, start your sentence over with "Excuse me..." Viewers can be more forgiving than many think. Thanks Helpful 2 Not Helpful 0
The teleprompter fails sometimes, so reporters have notes with them. Practice with hand-written notes and typed memo-style pages. Font size should be about 12-pt. Thanks Helpful 1 Not Helpful 0
Get glasses or contacts if you realize you're having a hard time reading from a distance. Invest polarized, no-glare eyewear if you plan on reporting news as a profession. This is best for the camera. Thanks Helpful 0 Not Helpful 1

↑ https://www.write-out-loud.com/vocal-warm-ups.html
↑ https://morningannouncement.com/speak-like-news-anchors/
↑ https://core.ac.uk/download/pdf/77023622.pdf
↑ https://www.nyfa.edu/student-resources/how-to-read-the-news-like-a-professional-news-anchor/
↑ http://www.nbcnews.com/id/44740700/ns/technology_and_science-science/t/why-do-news-anchors-all-talk-same/#.XdbNtkVKiRs
↑ https://www.jeadigitalmedia.org/2012/03/12/speaking-like-a-broadcaster/
↑ https://youtu.be/nB1SztDeAVc?t=92
↑ https://youtu.be/nB1SztDeAVc?t=52
↑ https://youtu.be/nB1SztDeAVc?t=30
↑ https://youtu.be/nB1SztDeAVc?t=70

About This Article

TV news reporters always speak with confidence and authority, which helps them deliver the news more clearly. If you want to talk like a news reporter, slow down your pace and use an energetic tone. It’s helpful to write up a script or find a news story online to practice reading. That way, what you’re saying will sound more professional. As you practice, try to avoid filler words like “um,” “like,” and “uh,” since these make you sound less confident. You'll also want to practice talking a little slower and enunciating each word so you can be easily understood. Watch the news as much as you can to get a feel for how reporters sound. Listen to their tone and watch their body language. Then, try emulating what you see! To learn how to go off-script while reporting the news, read on! Did this summary help you? Yes No

Send fan mail to authors

Reader Success Stories

Atube Billy Blankss

Jul 22, 2021

Did this article help you?

Amelia Belka

Jun 15, 2016

Jan 13, 2019

Dec 21, 2017

Nicholas Opiyo

Feb 3, 2021

Featured Articles

How to Avoid the Icks that People Can't Stand

Watch Articles

Terms of Use
Privacy Policy
Do Not Sell or Share My Info
Not Selling Info

Don’t miss out! Sign up for

wikiHow’s newsletter

Why I want to be a reporter Essay Example

Pages: 3 (634 words)
Published: July 14, 2016
Type: Essay

I do not remember exactly when this dream appeared and changed my previous dream. But the fact is, this is the most powerful dream that I have. A lot of questions that asked me why someone like me want to be a reporter. In addition, I am a graduated from vocational high school which focus obviously different with this dream so, people would just say that it is not my thing. Not to mention, the long-term deals with my parents who really questioned the prospects of success of becoming a reporter just made it harder to me.

They have the stereotype that being a reporter is the one who has income less balanced than busyness obtained. However, Bring a camera and record interesting events or be in front

of the camera and delivers the news which is not factual or directly from the scene, it's such a cool thing, but for me, not the prestige like that which is all I wanted from being a reporter. Lots of other things that I want rather than just look cool and have the privilege of the reporter, and these are the reasons why I wanted to be a reporter. Being a reporter certainly be pursued with a lot of deadlines and timing.

Besides can improve the discipline that I have, it can also be a good thing for me to be able to improve the mental that I have. Why? Due to a reporter schedule at least I can forge myself harder and harder every day with pursued deadlines news that must be written to the media. When mental matters has started t

improve, then the second thing that I want is to improve my communication skills. In communicating I am still far away to be called as a good communicator. Therefore, by becoming a reporter I could train myself to have the ability to communicate well.

Surely, what is called communicate here is the skills of reporter to be communicate well with his/her interviewee. With many kinds of people met during the information gathering activities, will train me in thinking about the questions and a lot of talked and it surely will train my communication skills. A different point of view also make me believe that being a reporter is my thing, because being a reporter is one of the most challenging job in the world. Why? Because not all fun and convenient things it is covered by a reporter.

Sometimes a reporter had to risk his life in a place that is prone to conflict or even being in conflict. Professionalism and loyalty to the profession requires a reporter to dare in things like that. Surely something like this would improve my life, not just strengthen general mental, but the whole. The last reason may sound hypocritical, when a lot of reporter like it to travel for free while covered their news, but I can say that I am little bit different, not just enjoying the trip I also want to be more familiar with the culture and society. Not only the culture and people of Indonesia but also around the world.

How? By covering a variety of interesting stuff from all over the world of course. However, this kind of activity is

the most difficult to achieve by a reporter, because traveling activity by the reporter is only done by a senior reporter who knows how to adapt and communicate. So, I think from being a reporter I just not be able to give a factual news but by becoming a reporter I also could make myself be a better person for future in this profession, like improve the base skills of a reporter and learn a lot of things while myself enjoy the privileges and activities from being a reporter.

Are You a Good Communicator? Essay Example
Critiquing the Notion of Symmetry Essay Example
Analyse the importance of working in partnership with others Essay Example
Shifting Courses Essay Example
My Self-Assessment As a Writer Essay Example
Prejudgment Essay Example
Personal Ads Essay Example
Hubspot Case Analisys Essay Example
Teaching language functions Essay Example
Example of micro operations microinstruction Essay Example
Growth Development And Learning Essay Example
Elder's Guidance, Blessing or Curse Essay Example
Exide Technologies Essay Example
Diversification Strategies Essay Example
Wallmart Sustainability Report Analysis Essay Example
Chief Executive Officer essays
Convenience Store essays
Firm essays
Training And Development essays
Unilever essays
Variable Cost essays
Virgin Group essays
Bargaining essays
Entity essays
Pest analysis essays
Greeting essays
Orality essays
Intercultural Communication essays
Interpersonal Communication essays
Cross-Cultural Communication essays
Nonverbal Communication essays
Effective Communication essays
Communication Skills essays
Academia essays
Higher Education essays
Language Learning essays
Studying Business essays
Education System essays
Study essays
First Day of School essays
Scholarship essays
Pedagogy essays
Curriculum essays
Coursework essays
Studying Abroad essays
Philosophy of Education essays
Purpose of Education essays
Brainstorming essays
Educational Goals essays
Importance Of College Education essays
Brown V Board of Education essays
The Importance Of Higher Education essays
Online Education Vs Traditional Education essays
Academic And Career Goals essays
Academic Integrity essays
Brown Vs Board Of Education essays
Distance learning essays
Technology in Education essays
Vocabulary essays
Writing Experience essays
Importance of Education essays
Early Childhood Education essays
Academic Degree essays
Academic Dishonesty essays
School Uniform essays

Haven't found what you were looking for?

Search for samples, answers to your questions and flashcards.

Enter your topic/question
Receive an explanation
Ask one question at a time
Enter a specific assignment topic
Aim at least 500 characters
a topic sentence that states the main or controlling idea
supporting sentences to explain and develop the point you’re making
evidence from your reading or an example from the subject area that supports your point
analysis of the implication/significance/impact of the evidence finished off with a critical conclusion you have drawn from the evidence.

Unfortunately copying the content is not possible

Tell us your email address and we’ll send this sample there..

By continuing, you agree to our Terms and Conditions .

Newscasting Opening and Closing Script Lines – Newspaper Script – Headline Writing

What is news.

According to Oxford, Dictionary news is information about important people or events. Or news is something someone, somewhere wants to suppress, the rest is advertising, said William Randolph Hearst . News must tell the audience something they do not already know, information that is recent or just come to light. Moreover, news must be true, the news is a trigger and news is people. This article discusses some best newscasting opening and closing script lines in English.

For a newscaster one of the significant parts of news is the opening lines. Indeed, everything counts in the first impression. If you have a good first impression it will give you a positive impression and energy for the whole session. Moreover, a good first impression will influence your listener or reader to know more about your session and attract them to be with you.

The following Newscasting opening and closing script lines are written as examples, you can select your preferred ones and edit them according to your news theme.

Also Read: Best News Casting Script for Reporters

Newscasting Opening and Closing Script Lines

Opening lines:.

Opening 01. Good evening, and welcome to the news hour on………………news. I’m [Your Name], bringing you the latest updates from around the world. In a world inundated with information, we strive to sift through the noise to bring you the most relevant and reliable news. Stay tuned for the top stories that matter.

Opening 02 . Hello, and a warm welcome to……………..news. I’m [Your Name], and it’s a pleasure to have you with us. As we embark on this news journey together, we promise to deliver the facts, untangle the complexities, and keep you informed. Let’s dive into today’s headlines.

Opening 03 . Good afternoon, and thank you for joining us on…………..news. I’m [Your Name], and we have an exciting lineup of stories for you today. From local events to global affairs, we’ve got it covered. Stay tuned as we unravel the news that shapes our world.

Opening 04 . Greetings, and a happy [morning/afternoon/evening] to you. You’re watching………………news, and I’m [Your Name]. In a world where information is key, we strive to be your reliable source. Join us as we navigate through the headlines, providing you with the latest updates and insights.

Opening 05. Hello, and good morning. The truth is our priority, we give justice to your curiosity. The latest news spotted only here on…………….news giving you the latest and most credible news for today.

Opening 06. One mission, one community, one assailant. Good afternoon Americans, it’s Thursday, October 22nd you are watching………….news and we hope you are having a great day here in………….. This is the national communication network bringing you the top stories that are sure with no bias. For the details of our news…

Opening 07. Good morning from the studio………… newsroom at…………..News headquarters here in New York, good to be with you. I am…………. “Thousands are expected in Havana’s Revolution Plaza today to pay their respect to Fidel Castro. In Miami’s Little Havana neighborhood, the tone following Castro’s death is marked differently …………”

Opening 04. Good morning It’s Thursday, October 22, 2022, and this is the…………. Morning News. Bringing you the latest news around the globe. “Grief and joy following the death of Cuba’s former leader as the communist nation prepare to say goodbye to Fidel Castro…………”

Opening 05. Good morning/afternoon/evening happy Thursday and thanks for joining us today. I am…………….and I am…………. here with………….

Closing Lines:

Closing 01. And with that, we wrap up this edition of………….. News. Your trust in us is the force that drives our commitment to unbiased and accurate reporting. As we bid you farewell, we wish you a wonderful day ahead. Stay informed, stay safe. This is [Your Name], signing off.

Closing 02. Thank you for joining us today on…………..news. Your time is valuable, and we appreciate you choosing us to stay informed. If you have any news tips or feedback, don’t hesitate to reach out. Until next time, take care, stay informed, and have a fantastic day. This is [Your Name], signing out.

Closing 03 . That concludes today’s news session at………….. News. We trust you found the information insightful and valuable. Remember, knowledge empowers. Feel free to connect with us through our social media channels. Until next time, this is [Your Name], wishing you a pleasant day and a well-informed future.

Closing 04. And that brings us to the end of another edition of………….. News. Your support means the world to us. As we part ways, remember that knowledge is the key to understanding the world around us. Thank you for being with us. I’m [Your Name], and this is [Your Channel]. Until next time, take care.

Closing 05. That was the news of truth and accuracy from the news republic team. We are hoping everyone is in good condition and also hoping you have a great day ahead. This is………….. News.

Closing 06. Those were the top stories for this hour. We do not just secure freedom we defend what people deserve. You can contact us through these numbers flashed on your screen. Share your feedback and make us aware of the hot news you have. Good day.

Closing 07. And that’s all for today’s time-sizzling news. Once again I am…………..and I am……….delivering news from worldwide towards one united direction this is the united rear center. Have a great day.

Closing 08. You have just heard the latest news around the globe. Again this is…………….. News. News with no bias, news with no exception delivering nothing but the truth. This has been (Anchor name) and (2nd Anchor name) bringing you the latest news around the globe. Thank you for being with us.

Also Read: Weather Forecast Report Sample Script in English

How to Write a News Headlines

The headline is the structure of the news and this part must be given much time and attention because if the headline is poor you can’t capture the audience’s attention. The headline can go before greetings or after greetings, but most of the anchors prefer it to go for it after the greetings.

The steps below tell you how to write a perfect news headline.

1. Write Short and Sweet Sentences

The sentences you write are more likely to be clear. If they are shorter sentences, communicating one idea, or a connected range of thoughts. Writing a limited number of words in a news headline to convey an important point of news is challenging. Find out the bullet words in the news to create the headline and keep the sentence as short as possible just to convey the main story of the news.

2. Write in a Positive Form

Writing in a positive form is an excellent way to make your sentences short and nappy. Your sentences should assert, as your readers should be told what is, they don’t want to be told what something isn’t. Example:

Jonas didn’t win the election.
Instead write: Jonas lost the election.
John Brown, who escaped last night, has still not been caught.
John Brown is still free.

Avoid words like: “not, isn’t, didn’t, and any other negative to-be verbs “

3. Be Active in Your Sentences not Passive

Headline news writing requires you to be direct, vigorous, and economical in your writing, which is why the active voice is preferred.

Police arrested Smith. (Active Voice)
Smith was arrested by the police. (Passive Voice)
A hurricane destroyed the whole village. (Active Voice)
The whole village was destroyed by a hurricane. (Passive Voice)

Writing sentences in passive voice, you unnecessarily extend the sentence words.

4. Do not use Slangs in The Headline

Using slang or jargon in the headline can be confusing for your audience to understand. Moreover, using slang in the headline doesn’t provide the reader with useful information, hence write your headline in simple sentences and words.

5. Use Present Tense and Don’t Use Article a, and the

If the events are happening now or in the process, you should use the present tense . Because your headline should have a time element to be clear to your audience when the event is taking place.

PDM fighting for the country’s Sovereignty
New Policy lets private Indian firms launch satel
3 Things that increase the risk of Covid reinfection

If possible you should avoid using the articles like “a, an, and the” and transitional words in the headline. Because these can be only padding and are not important to cover the key points.

I hope you have found the script you were looking for for the newscast. If you need any kind of anchoring script in English, please comment on it using the comment section below, then we will try to provide the script as soon as possible.

News Broadcast Script Sample for Students
How to Write a Summary of a Newspaper

Newspaper Reporter Interview Questions: A Comprehensive Guide to Nailing Your Next Interview

This interview profile for a journalist combines a summary of what you should look for in applicants with a fair range of good interview questions.

Former Community Manager at Workable specialized in employee experience, talent brands and our event series, Workable Ideas.

Landing a job as a newspaper reporter is an exciting opportunity to combine your passion for storytelling with your dedication to delivering accurate and impactful news. However, before you can start chasing leads and breaking stories, you need to ace the interview. To help you prepare, we’ve compiled a comprehensive guide to common newspaper reporter interview questions, along with insightful tips and sample answers to showcase your skills and impress potential employers.

1 How do you ensure your reporting is balanced and fair?

This question delves into your commitment to journalistic integrity and objectivity. Emphasize your ability to present all sides of a story, even if they differ from your personal opinions. Highlight your research process, including gathering information from diverse sources and verifying facts before publication. Share an example of a time you balanced multiple perspectives in your reporting.

Example: “Maintaining balanced and fair reporting is paramount to me. I make sure that all sides of the story are told by getting information from a lot of different places, such as official statements, expert opinions, and first-hand accounts. I also double-check facts and avoid using biased language or framing. I recently wrote an article about a controversial local development project. In it, I talked to both supporters and opponents of the project and gave each side equal weight, letting readers come to their own conclusions. “.

2 Can you give an example of a time when you had to work under a tight deadline?

Newsrooms are fast-paced environments, and deadlines are often tight. Demonstrate your ability to manage pressure, prioritize tasks, and deliver high-quality work even under time constraints. Share an instance where you met a tight deadline while maintaining accuracy and clarity.

Example “During a major citywide power outage I had to report on the unfolding situation with limited time. I quickly contacted local officials and utility companies gathering information while simultaneously writing the article. I coordinated with my editor for immediate feedback and revisions, ensuring accuracy and timeliness. Despite the pressure, I delivered the story within the deadline, demonstrating my ability to work efficiently under tight deadlines.”

3. Describe a complex topic you had to report on and how you made it understandable for your audience.

This question assesses your ability to simplify complex information and communicate it effectively to a general audience. Explain how you break down technical jargon use clear and concise language and provide context to enhance understanding. Share an example of a complex topic you successfully explained to a lay audience.

Example: “When reporting on a complex scientific study about climate change, I used simple analogies and relatable examples to explain the key findings. I also created infographics and visuals to illustrate the data, making it more accessible and engaging for readers. This approach ensured that even those without a scientific background could grasp the essence of the research and its implications.”

4. How do you stay up-to-date with news and developments within your beat?

Show that you are committed to learning new things and staying up to date on what’s happening in your area of coverage. Showcase the tools you use to stay up-to-date, like trade magazines, websites, and professional groups.

“I stay up-to-date on my beat by subscribing to relevant industry newsletters, following key influencers on social media, and going to conferences and webinars in my field.” I also keep in touch with other reporters and experts in my field through networking to share ideas and learn about new trends. This proactive approach makes sure that I know everything there is to know about the latest events and can give readers accurate and insightful coverage. “.

5. How do you approach interviews with high-profile or intimidating figures?

Showcase your ability to conduct interviews with confidence and professionalism, regardless of the interviewee’s stature or influence. Explain your preparation process, including research and question development, and emphasize your respectful and persistent approach to eliciting valuable information.

Example: “When interviewing high-profile figures, I thoroughly research their background and expertise to prepare insightful questions. I maintain a professional demeanor, treating them with respect while being mindful of their time constraints. I ask open-ended questions that allow them to share their perspectives and experiences in depth, even if they challenge my own views. I believe that effective interviewing requires a balance of respect, persistence, and a genuine interest in the interviewee’s insights.”

6. Describe a time when you had to retract or correct a story. How did you handle it?

Mistakes are inevitable in journalism, but how you handle them reveals your commitment to accuracy and accountability. Share an instance where you identified an error, took responsibility, and implemented corrective measures. Emphasize your transparency and willingness to learn from the experience.

Example: “In a recent article, I relied on information from a source that later proved to be inaccurate. Upon realizing the error, I immediately informed my editor and retracted the story online. We issued a correction in the next print edition and apologized to our readers for the misinformation. I personally took responsibility for the oversight and learned the importance of double-checking information, even from trusted sources.”

7. How do you balance the need for speed with the need for thorough reporting?

Newsrooms demand both speed and accuracy. Explain your approach to balancing these competing priorities. Highlight your ability to prioritize tasks, meet deadlines, and maintain journalistic integrity.

Example: “I prioritize speed for breaking news stories, focusing on delivering key details quickly while ensuring accuracy. For in-depth articles, I prioritize thorough research and verification, double-checking facts before publication. I use technology to my advantage, such as digital recorders and transcription software, to capture information accurately and efficiently. Ultimately, I believe that journalistic credibility is paramount, and I never compromise accuracy for speed.”

8. How have you adapted your reporting style to the rise of social media and online news?

The digital age has transformed news consumption. Demonstrate your understanding of these changes and your ability to adapt your writing style for online platforms. Highlight your use of social media for story gathering and audience engagement.

Example: “In the era of social media, I’ve adapted my writing style to be more concise and engaging, focusing on compelling headlines and ledes to capture attention in a crowded news feed. I also incorporate visual storytelling through infographics and short video clips, which are more frequently shared on social platforms. I utilize interactive features like live tweeting events and using Instagram polls to engage with audiences. However, I maintain accuracy and credibility in this fast-paced environment by fact-checking before posting anything online.”

9. Can you discuss a time when you had to navigate legal or ethical issues in your reporting?

Journalism involves ethical and legal considerations. Share an instance where you faced such challenges and explain how you balanced the need for transparency with respect for privacy, avoiding libel, and considering the potential impact of your reporting.

Example: “When reporting on a sensitive local crime, I had to balance the public’s right to know with the privacy of individuals involved. I carefully reviewed legal restrictions and obtained necessary permissions before publishing any identifying information. I also ensured that my reporting was accurate and unbiased, avoiding sensationalism or speculation. This experience reinforced the importance of ethical decision-making in journalism, where responsible reporting goes hand-in-hand with transparency.”

10. How do you handle criticism or backlash regarding your published articles?

As a reporter, you’ll inevitably encounter criticism. Demonstrate your ability to handle feedback constructively, learn from mistakes, and maintain your commitment to accurate and impactful journalism.

Example: “I view criticism as an opportunity for growth. When faced with backlash, I first assess its validity. If the criticism is justified, I acknowledge my mistake and strive to improve my work. If I disagree, I engage in respectful dialogue, providing evidence to support my perspective while remaining open to different viewpoints. I believe that maintaining professionalism and upholding journalistic integrity are crucial in such situations. It’s also important to remember that not all criticism requires action. Sometimes, it’s more about understanding diverse perspectives rather than changing one’s own approach.”

Remember, these are just examples. Tailor your responses to your specific experiences and skills to make a lasting impression on potential employers.

What was your role in putting together [this work sample]?

This question helps to understand the candidate’s role in collaborative projects.

“I was the lead reporter and also contributed to data collection and analysis. I coordinated with the graphics team for visuals. ”.

How do you ensure accuracy in your work?

This question evaluates the candidate’s commitment to journalistic integrity.

“I double-check all facts and figures and always cross-reference sources. I also have a checklist to ensure all ethical guidelines are followed. ”.

Journalism: How to Lead an Interview

What questions do news reporters ask?

What are the basic 6 questions that all reporters should answer in their news writing?

What are the 7 questions of journalism?

What is a good interview question for a news reporter?

This question is an opportunity to show the interviewer that you have the skills and abilities they’re looking for in a news reporter. You can answer this question by describing your own qualities as a news reporter, or you can describe what you think are the most important qualities of a good news reporter.

How many interview questions do I need for a reporter job?

26. Why is this job a good fit? If you want to ace your upcoming interview, practice with our topical-based interview question sets. Practice 26 Reporter Interview Questions. Written by professional interviewers with 26 answer examples.

How do you answer a news story interview question?

This question can help the interviewer get a sense of your writing style and how it fits with their publication. Your answer should include examples of how you write news stories, including any unique or interesting elements to your writing that make it stand out. Example: “My writing style is direct and concise.

What questions should a journalist ask during an interview?

Operational and situational questions that may be asked of a journalist during an interview include: How do you stay up-to-date with current events and news trends? Can you give an example of a time when you had to quickly research and report on a breaking news story? How do you ensure accuracy in your reporting?

13 Common Phone Interview Questions (and Answers!)
Top 70 Core Java Interview Questions and Answers 2024
amazon interview questions
The 27 Best Exit Interview Questions To Improve Your Business
Top 100 Python Interview Questions and Answers 2024
10+ Situational Interview Questions & Answers [Complete List]
11 Questions You’ll Be Asked at a Teaching Interview
Top 50 Spring Boot Interview Questions and Answers in 2024

Conquer your sephora interview: 25 essential questions and answers, conquer your southwest airlines pilot interview: a comprehensive guide with insider tips, leave a reply cancel reply.

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

How Much Research Is Being Written by Large Language Models?

New studies show a marked spike in LLM usage in academia, especially in computer science. What does this mean for researchers and reviewers?

research papers scroll out of a computer

In March of this year, a tweet about an academic paper went viral for all the wrong reasons. The introduction section of the paper, published in Elsevier’s Surfaces and Interfaces , began with this line: Certainly, here is a possible introduction for your topic.

Look familiar?

It should, if you are a user of ChatGPT and have applied its talents for the purpose of content generation. LLMs are being increasingly used to assist with writing tasks, but examples like this in academia are largely anecdotal and had not been quantified before now.

“While this is an egregious example,” says James Zou , associate professor of biomedical data science and, by courtesy, of computer science and of electrical engineering at Stanford, “in many cases, it’s less obvious, and that’s why we need to develop more granular and robust statistical methods to estimate the frequency and magnitude of LLM usage. At this particular moment, people want to know what content around us is written by AI. This is especially important in the context of research, for the papers we author and read and the reviews we get on our papers. That’s why we wanted to study how much of those have been written with the help of AI.”

In two papers looking at LLM use in scientific publishings, Zou and his team* found that 17.5% of computer science papers and 16.9% of peer review text had at least some content drafted by AI. The paper on LLM usage in peer reviews will be presented at the International Conference on Machine Learning.

Read Mapping the Increasing Use of LLMs in Scientific Papers and Monitoring AI-Modified Content at Scale: A Case Study on the Impact of ChatGPT on AI Conference Peer Reviews

Here Zou discusses the findings and implications of this work, which was supported through a Stanford HAI Hoffman Yee Research Grant .

How did you determine whether AI wrote sections of a paper or a review?

We first saw that there are these specific worlds – like commendable, innovative, meticulous, pivotal, intricate, realm, and showcasing – whose frequency in reviews sharply spiked, coinciding with the release of ChatGPT. Additionally, we know that these words are much more likely to be used by LLMs than by humans. The reason we know this is that we actually did an experiment where we took many papers, used LLMs to write reviews of them, and compared those reviews to reviews written by human reviewers on the same papers. Then we quantified which words are more likely to be used by LLMs vs. humans, and those are exactly the words listed. The fact that they are more likely to be used by an LLM and that they have also seen a sharp spike coinciding with the release of LLMs is strong evidence.

Charts showing significant shift in the frequency of certain adjectives in research journals.

Some journals permit the use of LLMs in academic writing, as long as it’s noted, while others, including Science and the ICML conference, prohibit it. How are the ethics perceived in academia?

This is an important and timely topic because the policies of various journals are changing very quickly. For example, Science said in the beginning that they would not allow authors to use language models in their submissions, but they later changed their policy and said that people could use language models, but authors have to explicitly note where the language model is being used. All the journals are struggling with how to define this and what’s the right way going forward.

You observed an increase in usage of LLMs in academic writing, particularly in computer science papers (up to 17.5%). Math and Nature family papers, meanwhile, used AI text about 6.3% of the time. What do you think accounts for the discrepancy between these disciplines?

Artificial intelligence and computer science disciplines have seen an explosion in the number of papers submitted to conferences like ICLR and NeurIPS. And I think that’s really caused a strong burden, in many ways, to reviewers and to authors. So now it’s increasingly difficult to find qualified reviewers who have time to review all these papers. And some authors may feel more competition that they need to keep up and keep writing more and faster.

You analyzed close to a million papers on arXiv, bioRxiv, and Nature from January 2020 to February 2024. Do any of these journals include humanities papers or anything in the social sciences?

We mostly wanted to focus more on CS and engineering and biomedical areas and interdisciplinary areas, like Nature family journals, which also publish some social science papers. Availability mattered in this case. So, it’s relatively easy for us to get data from arXiv, bioRxiv, and Nature . A lot of AI conferences also make reviews publicly available. That’s not the case for humanities journals.

Did any results surprise you?

A few months after ChatGPT’s launch, we started to see a rapid, linear increase in the usage pattern in academic writing. This tells us how quickly these LLM technologies diffuse into the community and become adopted by researchers. The most surprising finding is the magnitude and speed of the increase in language model usage. Nearly a fifth of papers and peer review text use LLM modification. We also found that peer reviews submitted closer to the deadline and those less likely to engage with author rebuttal were more likely to use LLMs.

This suggests a couple of things. Perhaps some of these reviewers are not as engaged with reviewing these papers, and that’s why they are offloading some of the work to AI to help. This could be problematic if reviewers are not fully involved. As one of the pillars of the scientific process, it is still necessary to have human experts providing objective and rigorous evaluations. If this is being diluted, that’s not great for the scientific community.

What do your findings mean for the broader research community?

LLMs are transforming how we do research. It’s clear from our work that many papers we read are written with the help of LLMs. There needs to be more transparency, and people should state explicitly how LLMs are used and if they are used substantially. I don’t think it’s always a bad thing for people to use LLMs. In many areas, this can be very useful. For someone who is not a native English speaker, having the model polish their writing can be helpful. There are constructive ways for people to use LLMs in the research process; for example, in earlier stages of their draft. You could get useful feedback from a LLM in real time instead of waiting weeks or months to get external feedback.

But I think it’s still very important for the human researchers to be accountable for everything that is submitted and presented. They should be able to say, “Yes, I will stand behind the statements that are written in this paper.”

*Collaborators include: Weixin Liang , Yaohui Zhang , Zhengxuan Wu , Haley Lepp , Wenlong Ji , Xuandong Zhao , Hancheng Cao , Sheng Liu , Siyu He , Zhi Huang , Diyi Yang , Christopher Potts , Christopher D. Manning , Zachary Izzo , Yaohui Zhang , Lingjiao Chen , Haotian Ye , and Daniel A. McFarland .

Stanford HAI’s mission is to advance AI research, education, policy and practice to improve the human condition. Learn more .