Breaking news is an urgent story that captivates audience attention due to its timeliness and relevance. It is often reported in a live format that interrupts regular programming, and it can include new information that has just occurred or is developing, which may affect the public. Breaking news requires fast reporting, including eyewitness accounts, official statements and social media updates.
Journalists must balance their commitment to breaking news with responsible practices to ensure accuracy and shape public perception. Inaccurate or incomplete information can be misinterpreted and cause public panic, which is why it is important to verify sources and avoid speculation.
Identify and prioritize the most important information to convey to readers, while maintaining accuracy. Use a straightforward and concise style that is easy to read. Avoid jargon and technical terms, and be sure to explain them if they are unfamiliar. Generally, stories are written in third person for readability and clarity. Unless there is compelling reason to do otherwise, use full names for first reference and initials for subsequent references in both headlines and captions.
Breaking news can be reported on many different platforms, including social media, websites and television broadcasts. If the news is serious enough, a television network may pause current non-news programming or its regular newscast and then re-introdduce the breaking news story with a graphic and distinctive music cue. This is also known as a newsflash or special report. On a website, breaking news stories are usually accompanied by photos and videos or live coverage of the event, which is often highlighted with lower thirds that emphasize its urgency.