In today’s world of information overload, it can be challenging for even the most discerning reader to filter out the noise and identify what truly matters. For some people, distinguishing between newsworthy events and sensationalized stories is a skill that requires practice and careful evaluation. However, with a bit of effort and an open mind, anyone can become better at separating the signal from the noise and staying informed about the issues that truly matter.
Sensational news can be described as a type of news that has the ability to capture the attention of a wide audience by presenting information in a way that is shocking, scandalous, or appalling. Such news stories often involve events or situations that are out of the ordinary or unexpected and can elicit strong emotional responses from readers or viewers. The purpose of sensational news is usually to attract more attention and generate higher ratings or sales. However, this type of news can also have negative effects, such as spreading misinformation or contributing to a culture of fear and outrage.
Newsworthy is different. Newsworthy information refers to any recent events or happenings that are considered to be of interest to the public. This type of information is typically reported by news media outlets such as newspapers, television stations, and websites. Newsworthy events can include anything from breaking news stories to human interest pieces to investigative journalism. Essentially, any information that has the potential to impact the lives of people in a particular community or beyond can be considered newsworthy. The key aspect of newsworthy information is that it is timely and relevant and has the potential to inform or educate the public.
To make something newsworthy, there are certain factors to consider.
How will this affect my readers’ lives?
Consider the impact of your writing on your readers’ lives. The more people that are affected by your story or event, the greater the impact it will have. Remember, the audience plays a significant role in determining the value of impact. So, always try to show relevancy to your readers and strive to create a positive and constructive impact with your writing.
Why are you reporting this now?
To meet the criteria of being considered ‘news,’ a story should have the latest updates but does not necessarily have to be fresh. However, it should contain new and significant information that makes the story relevant and worth knowing.
What is the significance of this story?
When contemplating a story, it is essential to take into account the number of people who might be affected by it. This will help us to better understand the potential impact of the story and craft it in a way that is informative and constructive.
What is the proximity of the story?
News stories that are closer to our geographical location tend to be considered more significant and meaningful. This is because such stories have the potential to affect our daily lives directly. When a news event happens in our community, it is more likely to be of interest to us, as we are likely to be impacted by it in some way. They also tend to be more relatable and easier to understand since they involve people and places that we are familiar with.
What authority or prominent figure is discussed?
One of the reasons why celebrities receive more media coverage is because their fame makes them more interesting to the public. News outlets know that stories about famous people will attract more viewers or readers, and therefore generate more revenue. Additionally, celebrities often have a large following on social media, which can also increase their media exposure.
When it comes to news, it’s always better to focus on content that is based on factual events and has a meaningful impact on the audience. Sensational news often exaggerates stories to grab attention, but it’s important to remember that substance triumphs over hype. By seeking out reliable sources and factual information, we can stay informed and make informed decisions based on the facts.
Melanie DuBose 